Using the 9 Step case analysis process as a guide discuss the complex problems that needs to be addressed, regarding The Walt Disney Company and Charter Communications, leading to a blackout of Disney's channels, including ESPN and ABC, for Charter's Spectrum cable subscribers. The problem may be related to any business topics (i.e. accounting, marketing, legal, etc.).
The write-up is limited to 12-15 double-spaced pages, not including a title page and exhibits (include as appendices).
The objectives of case analysis are multifaceted, aiming to dissect and understand the complexities of a given situation to derive actionable insights and strategic recommendations. Primarily, case analysis seeks to identify the root causes of a problem or conflict, assess the impact of various factors, and evaluate the responses of the stakeholders involved. This process involves a thorough examination of the context, including financial, operational, and strategic dimensions, to provide a comprehensive understanding of the case. Additionally, case analysis aims to anticipate future implications and guide decision-makers in formulating effective strategies to address similar issues or prevent their recurrence.
In September 2023, a significant dispute erupted between The Walt Disney Company and Charter Communications, leading to a blackout of Disney's channels, including ESPN and ABC, for Charter's Spectrum cable subscribers. The core of this conflict revolved around financial and strategic disagreements concerning carriage fees and the broader landscape of content distribution. As traditional cable providers grapple with the accelerating shift towards streaming services, both Disney and Charter faced the challenge of negotiating terms that reflect the changing dynamics of media consumption. Disney, leveraging its valuable content portfolio, sought higher fees and more favorable terms, while Charter aimed to manage costs and adapt to the evolving preferences of viewers increasingly inclined towards on-demand streaming options (Szalai & Jarvey, 2023). This standoff not only underscored the tensions between content creators and distributors but also highlighted the broader industry trend where traditional media companies must navigate the complexities of transitioning to digital platforms while still catering to their existing cable customer base.
References James, M. (2023, Aug 31). Disney pulls ABC, ESPN and other channels from Charter Spectrum service. ‘This is not a typical blackout’. Retrieved from Los Angeles Times: https://www.latimes.com/entertainment-arts/business/story/2023-08-31/disney-pulls-abc-espn-from-charter-spectrum-in-fee-dispute Szalai, G. &. (2023, September 5). Tipping Point? How the Disney-Charter Showdown Could Impact Pay TV Overall. Retrieved from The Hollywood Reporter: https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/business/business-news/disney-charter-dispute-cost-pay-tv-future-1235582063/
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USE THE 9-STEP CASE ANALYSIS PROCESS AS A GUIDE:
1. Skim the case to get an overview of the situation.
2. Read the case thoroughly to digest the facts.
3. Carefully Review information in exhibits.
4. Decide what the strategic issues are.
5. Begin your analysis with some number crunching.
6. Apply the concepts of strategic analysis.
7. Check out conflicting opinions
8. Support your opinions with reasons and evidence.
9. Develop recommendations and an action plan.
Your analysis and recommendations should be supported with high-quality evidence, including textbooks and peer-reviewed academic journal articles covering the appropriate topics that apply to your specific problem from the following list:
1. Accounting
2. Business Communications
3. Business Ethics
4. Business Finance
5. Business Integration and Strategic Management
6. Business Leadership
7. Economics
8. Global Dimensions of Business
9. Information Management Systems
10. Legal Environment of Business
11. Management
12. Marketing
13. Quantitative Research Techniques/Statistics
