Question 1 - What are the major strategic factors in the decision to relocate the production of Baywatch? What were the strategic implications of this intended strategy?
There were three key strategic factors in the decision to relocate the production of Baywatch. These include: Re-energise the show; save money and improve ratings. After a number of years at the top of the ratings, the show began to experience a decline. In 1998, the show’s producers realised a need for change in order to entice viewers back. After initially looking throughout America for a new location, the producers looked further abroad at areas such as Europe and Australia. Sydney was a key candidate due to its surf beaches and culture as well as being the host for the upcoming Olympic Games.
The change of location would not only re-energise the show, however provide significant media coverage, resulting in increased interest upon commencement of the new series. After so many years at the one location, story lines were wearing thin. Viewers became disinterested and ratings began to decline.
Los Angeles was becoming increasingly expensive as the production location. Furthermore, the state of California acknowledged that it could no longer feasibly provide concessions to the local film industry due to the cost involved. For this reason, producers realised that it may be viable to relocate the production to another location, resulting in overall lower costs and potential increased income. The weak Australian dollar was also attractive to the show’s producers. This meant that they could save up to 30% on equipment and other costs.
Additionally, the range of potential locations began to realise the advantages of having the production relocated to their area. This meant ...