Glossary of Media & Communication Terms
1. Big Data
Big data refers to all the information that we provide to companies through the internet. It encompasses datasets that are so large or complex that traditional data processing applications are inadequate. Challenges associated with big data include analysis, capture, data curation, search, and sharing. The term often refers to the use of predictive analytics or other advanced methods to extract value from data, rather than to a particular dataset size. Accuracy in big data can lead to more confident decision-making, resulting in greater operational efficiency, cost reductions, and reduced risk.
2. Brand Content
Brand content aims to generate brand awareness and affinity rather than directly selling a product or service. It involves understanding user needs and providing them with relevant and valuable content.
3. Media Conglomerate
A media conglomerate is a company that owns numerous smaller companies across various media channels. It’s essentially a conglomerate of media companies.
4. Digital Age
The digital age refers to the current era where the internet is practically indispensable. Thanks to the internet, we can access information from anywhere at any time.
5. The Information Age
The information age is a period in human history characterized by a shift from traditional industry (brought about by the industrial revolution) to an economy based on information computerization. This age is marked by the digital industry’s creation of a knowledge-based society within a high-tech global economy. This has a significant impact on manufacturing throughput and the service sector, enabling them to operate more efficiently and conveniently.
6. Distortion of Information
Distortion of information occurs when information is presented in a way that may seem appealing but is not entirely accurate. It involves manipulating facts or omitting crucial details to create a biased narrative.
The Medium is the Message
This concept highlights how the way information is presented can influence its interpretation. Depending on the presentation, the same information can appear positive or negative. Distortion of information involves presenting a biased or incomplete version of the truth to the public.
7. EGM
EGM is a study conducted by the Spanish company AIMC, which analyzes media consumption and usage in Spain. It’s crucial for television, radio, and print media. The study is released three times a year and these releases are called “oleadas” (waves).
9. Globalization
Globalization is a process of interaction and integration among people, companies, and governments worldwide. It’s driven by international trade and investment and facilitated by information technology. Globalization impacts various aspects of society, including the environment, culture, political systems, economic development, prosperity, and human well-being.
10. Infotainment
Infotainment is a neologism that refers to media that combines information and entertainment. It can also refer to the hardware/software used to deliver this type of content. Essentially, it involves disguising entertainment as information.
11. Mainstream Mass Media
Mainstream mass media represents the common current thought of the perceived majority. It encompasses popular culture and media culture, typically disseminated by mass media. Subcultures, countercultures, and cult followings are considered the opposite of the mainstream.
12. Media Concentration
Media concentration is a process where progressively fewer individuals or organizations control increasing shares of the mass media. This means that large conglomerates dominate the media landscape. It’s a phenomenon where a decreasing number of entities own multiple media outlets, effectively concentrating ownership. This is a significant concern for government agencies, journalists, and academics who study how and where people access information about current events.
13. Media Ownership
Media ownership refers to those who control the media. Media concentration, on the other hand, describes the phenomenon where a few entities control most media outlets. In essence, both concepts are closely related.
14. New Media
New media, most commonly referring to the internet, includes content available on demand through the internet, accessible on any digital device, and usually featuring interactive user feedback and creative participation.
15. PBS
PBS (Public Broadcasting Service) is a non-profit public television network in the USA. It provides a variety of television programs to public television stations across the country.
16. Prime Time
Prime time refers to the period with the highest television viewership, typically during the evening hours.
17. Public Interest
Public interest concerns the welfare of the general public. In the context of media, it raises questions about the media’s responsibility to serve the public and the extent of their social responsibility.
18. Share
Share represents the percentage of the audience watching a particular program at a specific time.
19. Social Media
Social media refers to online platforms and websites that facilitate social interaction and the sharing of information.
20. Storytelling
Storytelling is the art of narrating a story. It involves creating and utilizing a captivating atmosphere through storytelling techniques. In marketing, it’s a technique used to connect with users on an emotional level.
21. Trend Hunting
Trend hunting, similar to coolhunting, involves searching for emerging trends and predicting future trends in fashion and viral phenomena.