Tni : an example of retransmission consent compromise between broadcaster and cable operator : a history

The purpose of this study is to document the history of TNi, a new local cable channel formed as a result of the retransmission consent negotiations between Knoxville's WBIR-TV Channel 10 and Scripps-Howard Cable Company. The study traces the history of the new channel from the negotiations through development, launch and the first eighteen months of operation.

The findings were based on eight interviews with the management of both WBIR and Scripps-Howard who were involved with the formation and operation of TNi. First the study reviews the events that led to the retransmission consent negotiations that were completed in October, 1993. Then, the history of TNi is presented in six categories: Contract Negotiations, Organization, Programming, News, Technical, and Sales and Promotions. The study concludes by examining the success of TNi and its future potential.

The findings indicate that the negotiations between WBIR and Scripps-Howard were amicable. Both companies made an equal investment in the set-up of the channel and agreed to share profit or loss. WBIR was the active partner in the development and operation of TNi and had sole control over content. A series of poor decisions were made by WBIR's management during the formation of the channel and this had a negative impact on TNi's performance. Several changes were made at the end of the first year, but, at the time of this writing, the future of the TNi remains uncertain.