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Company focus

CBS
Product Trade-Off Hard Member-only

How should CBS balance producing more original streaming content versus licensing popular existing shows for Paramount+?

Prepared by NextSprints

15 mins
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Strategic Decision Making Data Analysis Content Valuation Media & Entertainment Streaming Digital Content User Engagement Product Trade-Offs Streaming Services Content Strategy CBS
Product Management Trade-Off Question: CBS Paramount+ content strategy balancing original and licensed shows

Introduction

The trade-off between producing original streaming content versus licensing popular existing shows for Paramount+ is a critical decision for CBS. This scenario involves balancing the potential for unique, brand-defining content against the proven appeal of established shows. My analysis will cover the strategic implications, user impact, and financial considerations of this trade-off.

Analysis Approach

I'll start by asking clarifying questions, then identify the trade-off type, analyze the product, and develop a hypothesis. From there, I'll define key metrics, design an experiment, plan data analysis, create a decision framework, and provide recommendations.

Step 1

Clarifying Questions (3 minutes)

  • Based on recent streaming trends, I'm thinking original content might be a key differentiator. How does Paramount+ currently split its content between original and licensed shows?

Why it matters: Helps understand the current content strategy and potential for shift Expected answer: 30% original, 70% licensed Impact on approach: A low percentage of originals might indicate more room for growth in that area

  • Considering user behavior, I suspect binge-watching of familiar shows is a significant draw. What's the average watch time for licensed vs. original content on Paramount+?

Why it matters: Indicates user preference and engagement levels Expected answer: Licensed content has higher average watch time Impact on approach: Might suggest maintaining a strong licensed content base while gradually increasing originals

  • Looking at financials, I'm assuming original content has higher upfront costs but potentially better long-term ROI. What's our current content budget allocation between original and licensed content?

Why it matters: Helps assess financial implications and current investment strategy Expected answer: 60% for licensed, 40% for original content Impact on approach: Might indicate room to shift more budget towards originals if they show promise

  • Thinking about technical capabilities, I'm curious about our content recommendation system. How effectively can we surface new original content to users who primarily watch licensed shows?

Why it matters: Affects our ability to promote and gain traction for new original content Expected answer: System is moderately effective but has room for improvement Impact on approach: Might need to factor in algorithm improvements alongside content strategy

  • Considering our competitive landscape, I'm wondering about exclusivity. What percentage of our licensed content is exclusive to Paramount+?

Why it matters: Helps understand the unique value of our licensed content Expected answer: 40% of licensed content is exclusive Impact on approach: Lower exclusivity might push towards more original content investment

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NextSprints

Updated Jan 22, 2025