The Need for a Ratings System for Podcast Content
Content ratings in use today for movies, television, games, and records are
necessarily copyrighted, and are not available for podcast content. Theses
ratings represent a review of content using proprietary ratings definitions,
symbols, reviewing bodies, and process.
Current ratings systems in use today assume review and ratings assignment by a
panel, a network executive, or other distribution gatekeeper. In today's
technology environment, where the creation and distribution of artistic works
is low cost, easy, and rapid, especially given the advent of podcasts and RSS,
having a panel review content prior to release is not feasible.
The Self-Content Rating is a Bond with Listeners, Viewers, and Advertisers
What's needed is a framework which enables podcasts to select a rating for
their own podcast content, and treat the content rating they select as an
agreement with their current and potential podcast listeners, viewers, and
advertisers. It sets expectations, avoids disappointment, and provides a basis
for agreement between podcasts and audiences. The Self-Content Rating System
for Podcasts is at the podcast series (RSS) level which is considerate of the
subscription and automated delivery features of podcast technology.
Self-Rating is not a Limit on Self-Expression
The Self-Content Rating System for Podcasts is in no way a limit on creative
expression. It simply demands that the podcaster be upfront with its audience
and true to whatever standard it selects for the final version of the file
released as part of the RSS. In some cases, this may require editing of content
prior to release depending on the rating the podcaster has self-selected for
the podcast and the content itself as recorded. Creative expression within the
bounds of the content rating selected by the podcast is encouraged. And
remaining true to this rating provides a framework for developing a loyal
audience and subscriber base.
Changing Content Strategies and Content Ratings
From time to time a podcast may decide to deviate from the content rating it
initially selected for its podcast. In this case, the podcast must either
revise its rating, giving notice to its audience and advertisers that it is
doing so to provide them the opportunity to "opt out" or unsubscribe. Or
alternatively they could start another podcast (RSS) with a new content rating
that is consistent with the podcaster's new content strategy.
