ESPN Defends Its Bundle as Fans Cut the Cord

ESPN has lost over 12 million subscribers since 2011 but remains profitable by defending its cable bundling strategy. The company integrates social media to enhance its TV programming and has implemented cost-cutting measures, including layoffs and programming tweaks. Despite past failures like the ESPN phone, the company has a history of digital innovation. ESPN is exploring streaming services as a future strategy, with Disney investing in Bam Tech for live streaming. The company aims to adapt to the shrinking cable universe while maintaining investor confidence.

What is ESPN's primary strategy to maintain its business despite losing subscribers?

• Creating a new standalone streaming service

• Doubling down on their existing cable bundle strategy

• Merging with another sports network

• Focusing solely on social media platforms

How does ESPN use social media to enhance its TV product?

• By broadcasting live tweets during shows

• By hiring social media influencers as hosts

• By using custom software to track viewer discussions

• By ignoring social media trends

What significant change has ESPN made to its programming?

• Broadcasting only live sports events

• Switching to a 24-hour news format

• Focusing more on personality-driven content

• Eliminating all sports highlights

What was ESPN's early attempt at digital innovation in 2006?

• Developing a sports video game

• Launching a sports streaming service

• Creating a phone for scores and updates

• Starting a sports-themed social network

What is ESPN's approach to adapting to the decline of cable subscriptions?

• Expanding into international markets

• Partnering with movie studios

• Focusing solely on traditional TV

• Investing in live streaming services