The Key Issues For Audiences and Institutions

Key Terms
digitality - binary computer code, encoding information in the form of 0/1’s, all programmes/software. Run by a system of “On/Off electrical pulses”.

interactivity – All the ways of streaming information, (ISDN cables, Satellite TV etc.) More (band) width given (multiple strands of information). There is a two way feed, changes the way text can work - you can choose. Compressing of the digital information.

hypertextuality – organisation, no longer linear, allows the ability to access any where you like, (video vs. DVD). You can jump from one part to another, e.g. tv shows in short segments for advertisements, but also to keep consumer attention.

dispersal – how information can be shared/communicated, market share/size (take up) Who’s using (+ what?), How do the producers target those users to maximise/increase markets?

virtuality – leading/linking - how real something is, e.g. online digital worlds (second life etc.) blurring the boundaries - what is real?

convergence – new technologies merging into one, e.g. i-Pods that show photos, Sky +. How things converge – also related to size (e.g. of gadgets) Where will it go next?

Audience – how does the audience use technology? Did they use before and is it new? Has it stemmed from demand or have we been made to think we need it? Who has access? Who are “disenfranchised”/not getting access it?

Regulation/control – The main issue is of Copyright - Impact on producers, e.g. file sharing musicIs there any control of use? Who controls, and what? Should there be any control? Is it possible to control?What of Government role in controlling information?

Ownership – who owns the technology? E.g. which companies? (Microsoft/Sony)Games console manufacturing (Ps3 vs Xbox 360)Does it affect the way they sell/you buy?If so why?