Your browser is out-of-date!

Update your browser to view this website correctly. Update my browser now

×

Broadway Systems Helps TheBlaze Launch National TV Network Under Aggressive Time Schedule

March 25, 2013 – Grand Rapids, Mich. – Most cable or satellite network startups have months, sometimes more than a year, to prepare for launching their network. TheBlaze had less than 45 days. Despite the aggressive time schedule, Broadway Systems, the leading provider of advertising management software for cable networks, was able to help the network launch on time and on budget.

TheBlaze began as GBTV, an online, subscription-based channel with six hours of programming each day. Last June, the company was rebranded as TheBlaze and moved forward with plans for a 24-hour programming schedule. In addition to its Web-based service, the network negotiated distribution agreements with DISH Network.

“We had the foundation of GBTV to start, but going from six hours a day to 24/7 is a huge jump,” said Eric Pearce, senior vice president of television operations. “We had about 40 days to get everything up and running. It was pretty intense.”

TheBlaze needed a partner that could manage its advertising at the right economics – and was capable of meeting its tight deadline. They initially contacted Broadway Systems in late July 2012 and were able to launch on schedule on Sept. 12.

“Of all the people we spoke to, Broadway was the most confident in working with us,” Pearce recalled. “They quickly came back with a plan and said, ‘We can do this.’ They were able to deliver what we needed so we, in turn, could deliver to our audience.”

While the majority of network programming is based out of Dallas, TheBlaze maintains its sales offices in New York City. Pearce said Broadway spent time at the network’s Times Square location training TheBlaze personnel how to use its Programming, Scheduling, and Traffic and Billing modules. “They configured their software to work best with our internal needs and the needs of our clients,” he added. “We are very pleased with what the Broadway software has allowed us to do.”

Pearce said Broadway’s integrated platform not only helps internal workflows between departments (including master control playout), but also helps TheBlaze provide better service to its advertising clients. “When it comes to integrating commercials, we have lots of departments working together,” he explained. “Broadway’s software makes it much easier for day-to-day production. Their trafficking system was a huge key for us. Our clients get top-notch service, and Broadway allows us to do that.”

Over the past 12 months, Broadway Systems has implemented or entered into long-term contracts with a number of national cable networks, including BBC America, MGM Syndication, MNET, Tennis Channel, and WWE. “Broadway has a proven track record with new networks, and we were proud to be part of the successful launch of TheBlaze,” said John Sorensen, president of Broadway Systems. “We engineered our end-to-end software platform as an integrated, modular solution that can grow with the cable network. The result is an efficient and configurable platform that is appropriate for the launch of a new network but robust enough to manage top 20 rated networks.”

About TheBlaze

Glenn Beck’s TheBlaze is a news, information & entertainment network dedicated to delivering high quality programming 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. The exclusive provider of Glenn’s daily television broadcast, TheBlaze also offers a full slate of thought provoking news and opinion shows like Real News and Wilkow, late night comedy like BS of A, family-friendly programming like Independence USA and Liberty Treehouse, provocative documentaries and other original specials covering a myriad of entertaining and enlightening topics. TheBlaze, which receives over 10 million unique online visitors per month, is the only network where you can find the facts and stories you care about most. TheBlaze – Truth Lives Here.

About Broadway Systems

Since 2002, Broadway Systems has collaborated with cable networks to engineer a contemporary and fully integrated programming, sales, traffic, stewardship, and billing software system. Today, this platform manages more than $3 billion in advertising revenues for top 20 rated cable networks as well as startups. Broadway Systems offers cable networks a strategic alternative to existing vendors, one that is dedicated to their business and keeps pace with the changing needs of this dynamic industry. Find out more at www.broadwaysystems.com.

Close