Television digest with electronic reports (Jan-Dec 1952)

SUMMARY FOR GROUP "A" STATION PROGRAM SOURCES; networks, film 8c. slide no live studio 2KW TRANSMITTER TECHNICAL EXPENSE * 40,140.00 PROGRAM EXPENSE — 64,180.00 SALES EXPENSE r 24,700.00 ADMINISTRATIVE AND GENERAL 55,028.00 TOTAL YEARLY OPERATING EXPENSE -* 184,04 8.00 TOTAL BASIC PERSONNEL 22 BASIC FLOOR SPACE REQUIREMENTS -2,624 SQ.FT and expanded program schedules. In planning the station, consideration should be given to possibilities for future expansion; also, accommodation of visitors, clients, and others that may be involved in a television station operation. For maximum efficiency, studies should be made of traffic flow, relation of operational functions and storage requirements. Combining transmitter, studios, and offices whenever possible will improve efficiency and reduce operating expense. A well-planned layout can reduce space requirements and improve operating efficiency at the same time. Programming Since programming emphasis will vary for stations in the different categories, it is important that program personnel be wellqualified to fit programming needs. Experienced personnel in key program positions, such as Program Director, Film Manager, Production Manager, Stage Manager, and Art Director will assist in keeping program costs to a minimum. Production of live programs and purchase of film for sustaining or commercial programs are examples of some of the expense items involved. Detailed cost budgeting, with talent and other program expenses charged to proper accounts, is an important function in this department. Program expense is the “highest cost” item for stations in each group and will require much planning by experienced personnel. Sales The Sales Department should be planned to meet the requirements for sales to the major income sources such as networks, national spot, or local advertisers as they vary with the station category and local conditions. Sales salaries may be planned on a straight salary or commission basis or combinations of both. Most stations will contract with national station representatives to assure proper representation at the national level. Such agencies receive compensation for sales on a commission basis. Numerous trips may be necessary by sales personnel, thus adding to sales expense. If planning a station for a non-TV area, higher sales promotion costs may be incurred. Administrative Professional services include compensation for attorney, engineering consultant, and outside auditor. This item does not include special fees in connection with special applications, hearings, engineering surveys, or special audits. Equipment is depreciated on a 10-vear basis. It may be necessary to depreciate at a higher or lower rate. Technical equipment and buildings will have different rates of depreciation. The item for amortization will vary with capital investment. Make adjustments here accordingly. No provision for future expansion or power increase is included in this estimate. Station planners should consider this possibility and provide a reserve accordingly. GROUP "A” STATION 2 Kilowatt VHF Transmitter. Program Sources, Networks, Film and Slide. No Live Programming. Detailed Estimates Total Floor Space Requirements : Sq. Ft. Technical Plant (Transmitter, Film Projection, Engineer Lab, Film Edit, Video and Audio Control) 896 Manager’s Office 216 Program Office 360 Sales Officce 216 General Office 360 Reception 216 Storage 360 * Total 2,624 * Note: This total used at $2.00 per square foot to arrive at yearly rent item. Yearly Technical Expense: Expense Chief Engineer Four (4) Operating Engineers Two (2) Projectionists Total Technical Salaries $31,460.00 Transmitter (Tubes and Power $0. 34/hr.) 1.480.00 Tubes (Iconoscope, Misc.) 2,000.00 Power 2,600.00 Repairs and Miscellaneous 2,600.00 Total Technical Expense $40,140.00 2