Products in the Media Industry 3

1. Social Media Platforms/Apps

Social media platforms and apps are websites and applications that we use to connect with others and share content. Social media is the most recent and rapidly evolving media products available. This includes sites and apps like Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, Instagram, Snapchat and TikTok.

Any business can create a social media profile to boost their engagement with customers and even create content with the goal of selling their product. As such, this product is used by all of the sectors we’ve looked at.

Below are examples of how social media is used within the media industry:

• Film – Film studios, producers, and creators use social media to promote movies, share behind-the-scenes content, and engage with audiences. Fans also use social media to discuss and share opinions about films.
• Television – TV networks, production companies, and show creators use social media to market TV shows, provide updates, and interact with viewers. Fans often engage with TV-related content, such as discussing episodes or sharing fan art, on social media platforms.
• Radio – Radio stations and hosts use social media to promote their programming, share updates, and engage with listeners. Social media also allows radio stations to share additional content, such as podcasts, interviews, or behind-the-scenes clips.
• Print & digital publishing – Publishers, authors, and magazines use social media for marketing, audience engagement, and sharing news about new releases or events. Readers may also connect with authors and discuss their favourite books on social media platforms.
• Computer games – Game developers, publishers, and esports organizations use social media to promote games, share updates, and connect with gamers. Gamers also use social media to share gameplay, discuss strategies, and connect with fellow players.
• Interactive media – Creators of interactive media projects use social media to showcase their work, connect with audiences, and share updates about new experiences.
• The internet – Social media platforms are one of the key products produced and used within the Internet sector. Non-social media websites will also use social media to promote their own websites and engage with customers.

2. Digital Games

Digital games can be described as “any game played using electronic device, either online or stand-alone.” Digital gaming products include games that are available on personal computers, home consoles and smart devices such as phones and tablets. Digital gaming is a popular product used by new media sectors.

Most industries make use of digital games in one way or another, but the primary sectors that rely on digital games are the computer games, interactive media and Internet sectors.

Below are examples of how each of these media sectors use digital games:

• Computer games – This sector produces video games for consoles, PCs and mobile as its primary product.
• Interactive media – Digital games can be a part of interactive media experiences to blend gaming with immersive technology and create a more enjoyable experience.
• The Internet – Online platforms often host digital games, including web-based games, game streaming services, and social media games.

3. Comics & Graphic Novels

Comic books and graphic novels are both forms of sequential art, telling stories using a mix of illustrations and text. They feature visuals like frames, speech bubbles, and text boxes to narrate a story, and often include elements from fantasy, science fiction, or superhero genres.

There is a key difference between comic books and graphic novels. Comic books are typically periodicals, released in shorter installments, often on a monthly or bimonthly basis. Graphic novels are longer and more complete stories, often presented as a single, standalone volume.

The creative media sectors that primarily produce and use comic books and graphic novels are print publishing, digital publishing & the Internet.

Below are examples of how each of these media sectors uses comic books and graphic novels:

• Print publishing – This sector is responsible for the creation, distribution, and marketing of comic books, graphic novels, and other illustrated publications.
• Digital publishing – Digital editions of comic books and graphic novels are distributed through various platforms, such as e-readers and digital comics stores, making these works more accessible to a wider audience.
• The Internet – Digital comics and webcomics are widely available online, with artists sharing their work on dedicated platforms or social media websites.