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August 2020

A Look Ahead at Television Viewing

12336-John-C-Maxwell-Quote-Change-is-inevitable-Growth-is-optionalOver the past decade, we’ve seen significant changes in the way Americans watch television. The rise of streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Prime Video has led to a decrease in traditional cable and satellite TV subscriptions. So what changes can we expect to see in the next five years? Here are some trends to keep an eye on:

  1. Connected TV: More and more Americans are ditching traditional TV services and opting for internet-connected TV devices, such as Roku, Apple TV, and Amazon Fire TV. In fact, according to eMarketer, the number of connected TV users is expected to surpass 213 million by 2024. As more households adopt connected TV, we can expect to see more advertising opportunities and a shift in advertising dollars from traditional TV to connected TV.

  2. ATSC 3.0: The new broadcast TV standard, ATSC 3.0, has the potential to revolutionize the way we watch television. With its ability to deliver 4K video, immersive audio, and interactivity, ATSC 3.0 has the potential to create new revenue streams for broadcasters and advertisers. We can expect to see more ATSC 3.0-compatible TVs and devices hit the market in the next few years, and as more broadcasters adopt the new standard, we can expect to see more innovative programming and advertising experiences.

  3. More Personalization: With the rise of streaming services, viewers have become accustomed to having personalized recommendations and content suggestions. As traditional TV services look to compete with streaming, we can expect to see more personalized TV experiences, including personalized ads. Advertisers will need to find new ways to deliver targeted ads in a way that doesn't feel intrusive or disruptive to the viewing experience.

  4. Rise of Short-Form Content: The popularity of platforms like TikTok and Instagram has shown that there is a growing appetite for short-form content. We can expect to see more TV networks and streaming services experiment with shorter, bite-sized programming that can be consumed quickly and easily. This shift towards shorter content could also lead to more opportunities for advertisers to create short-form ads that are optimized for mobile and social media.

  5. Continued Fragmentation: With the rise of streaming services, we’ve seen a fragmentation of the TV landscape. Instead of a few major networks dominating the airwaves, we now have dozens of streaming services and niche networks catering to specific audiences. This fragmentation is likely to continue, which means advertisers will need to find new ways to reach their target audiences across multiple platforms and services.

In conclusion, the next five years are likely to bring significant changes to the television industry. As more households adopt connected TV and ATSC 3.0-compatible devices, we can expect to see more innovative programming and advertising experiences. Advertisers will need to find new ways to reach audiences in a personalized and non-intrusive way, while also navigating the increasingly fragmented TV landscape.

 
 

How Can Pastors Use ChatGPT to Assist in Sermon Preparation?

Message-from-pastor-1536x770This is how ChatGPT responded to the question, "How Can Pastors Use ChatGPT for Sermon Preparation?"

As a pastor, sermon preparation is an essential part of your role. It involves researching biblical texts, studying theological commentaries, and finding practical ways to apply scripture to everyday life. While these tasks are already challenging, the process can become even more daunting when you’re dealing with a creative block or a time crunch.

Fortunately, there’s a new tool available that can help pastors streamline their sermon preparation process: ChatGPT. ChatGPT is a powerful artificial intelligence language model that can generate human-like text based on the prompts you give it. Here are four ways that pastors can use ChatGPT to help with sermon preparation:

  1. Generate ideas for sermon topics: If you’re struggling to come up with a topic for your next sermon, ChatGPT can help you generate ideas. Simply input a prompt such as “What are some relevant sermon topics for young adults?” and let the AI model generate ideas based on current trends, issues, and common concerns of young adults.

  2. Get a fresh perspective on a topic: ChatGPT can also help you gain a fresh perspective on a topic you’ve already chosen for your sermon. For example, if you’ve decided to preach on a specific Bible passage, input the verse and ask ChatGPT for insights and interpretations you may not have considered. This can help you expand your understanding of the passage and present it in a new and insightful way to your congregation.

  3. Create sermon outlines and main points: Once you have a topic, ChatGPT can help you create an outline and main points for your sermon. Input the topic and ask ChatGPT for ideas on how to structure your message. The AI model can suggest main points, illustrations, and practical applications that can enhance your sermon and make it more engaging for your audience.

  4. Research theological concepts and background information: Finally, ChatGPT can help you with research on theological concepts and background information. If you’re struggling to understand a particular doctrine or want to learn more about the historical context of a passage, input your question and let ChatGPT provide you with resources and insights that can deepen your understanding.

In conclusion, ChatGPT is a powerful tool that pastors can use to help streamline their sermon preparation process. It can help with generating ideas, gaining fresh perspectives, creating sermon outlines and main points, and researching theological concepts and background information. By using this AI language model, pastors can save time and energy while still delivering high-quality sermons to their congregations.


The Rise of AI and ChatGPT in Pay-Per-Click Marketing

Ppc-img-966611994As the digital marketing landscape evolves, the impact of artificial intelligence (AI) and ChatGPT on pay-per-click (PPC) marketing is undeniable. Over the next two years, we can expect these cutting-edge technologies to transform how we approach PPC advertising, making it more efficient and data-driven. But as with any new tool, it's essential to recognize the potential pitfalls and use AI wisely to enhance our marketing efforts.

Embracing AI in PPC marketing opens up a world of possibilities, from optimizing campaigns to uncovering hidden opportunities. Here are three specific ways AI and ChatGPT can improve your PPC marketing strategy:

  1. Bid Optimization: AI-powered tools can analyze vast amounts of data in real time, enabling marketers to make more informed decisions about their bid strategies. By leveraging AI, you can optimize bids for maximum ROI, ensuring your ads reach the right audience at the right time without overspending.

  2. Ad Creation and Testing: ChatGPT can help create persuasive ad copy tailored to your target audience. By generating multiple variations of ad text, you can test different messages and headlines, identifying which resonates best with your audience. The more you refine your ads, the better your chances of driving conversions.

  3. Keyword Research: AI can identify new, relevant keywords and negative keywords based on your target audience's search behavior. This insight can help you expand your campaigns and eliminate irrelevant traffic, improving the overall efficiency of your PPC marketing efforts.

But amidst the potential benefits of AI and ChatGPT, it's important to remember that technology is only as good as the humans who wield it. As PPC marketers, we must be cautious not to become overly reliant on AI, which could lead to a loss of creativity and genuine connection with our audience. Moreover, AI-generated content may occasionally miss the mark, so it's crucial to review and refine its output.

To ensure the best results, keep these considerations in mind:

  • Always double-check AI-generated ad copy for accuracy and relevance, making sure it aligns with your brand voice and messaging.
  • Don't neglect the human touch. While AI can provide valuable insights, it's essential to combine data-driven strategies with your unique understanding of your audience and market.
  • Remember that AI is a tool to enhance your marketing efforts, not replace them. Use AI to streamline processes and optimize campaigns, but remain actively involved in decision-making.

In conclusion, AI and ChatGPT offer exciting opportunities to revolutionize PPC marketing in the coming years. By harnessing their power wisely and balancing their use with human expertise, we can create more effective and efficient PPC campaigns that drive better results for our clients.


ATSC 3.0 Q & A - Part 2

Q. Do I need a new antenna for ATSC 3.0 signal?

A. No, all existing Digital HDTV OTA antennas are already capable of receiving ATSC 3.0 broadcasts. The number of stations you can receive will depend on various conditions like weather, your distance to the broadcast tower, and local geography. A more capable antenna might improve your reception.

 

Q. Is an internet connection necessary for ATSC 3.0?

A. Nope. Although ATSC 3.0 over-the-air (OTA) broadcasts are designed to complement content delivered via the Internet, you don't actually need an Internet connection. By simply using your antenna along with an ATSC 3.0 tuner, you can enjoy all the local stations broadcasting in this new format. However, to access some of the more exciting features of ATSC 3.0, like personalized ads, on-demand content, interactive options, and premium content, you'll need to connect to the internet.

It's important to note that ATSC 3.0 isn't set in stone and is still being actively developed. As a result, new features might be introduced at any moment. In such cases, your ATSC 3.0 tuner will need a software update, which will most likely necessitate an internet connection.

 

Q. Do I need to buy a new TV? 

A. The simple answer is "nope." As mentioned earlier, if your TV doesn't support ATSC 3.0, you can still use an external converter box. However, these boxes might be difficult to find, especially in the beginning.

If you're looking to buy a new TV and want to ensure it's future-proof, several TV manufacturers, such as LG, Sony, Samsung, and now Hisense, offer ATSC 3.0-compatible TVs for the U.S. market.

LG, a company actively involved in ATSC 3.0's development, will provide ATSC 3.0 compatibility on both its G2 and Z2 OLED TV models. Hisense plans to include ATSC 3.0 on all its 2022 TVs, excluding the U6 series.

 

Q. Is there a guide to prepare for ATSC 3.0?

A. We found this info to be helpful - ATSC 3.0 Prep Guide


ATSC 3.0 Q & A

Atsc_logo_twitter_678x291Q. Will ATSC 3.0 be free to air, at no cost to the viewer, and what will that do to cable and satellite?

A. Yes, ATSC 3.0 broadcasts will be free-to-air, just like the current ATSC 1.0 standard. This means that you won't have to pay any subscription fees to watch over-the-air (OTA) television channels using an ATSC 3.0-compatible TV or external converter. However, keep in mind that this applies only to OTA broadcast channels, not cable or satellite channels.

The introduction of ATSC 3.0 could have some interesting effects on the cable and satellite industries. With the improved picture and audio quality, as well as mobile compatibility, some viewers may find that free-to-air ATSC 3.0 broadcasts are a good alternative to paid cable or satellite subscriptions. This could lead to a shift in the market as more people opt for OTA broadcasts, potentially driving cable and satellite providers to offer more competitive packages and services to retain their customer base.

However, it's important to remember that ATSC 3.0 won't replace cable and satellite entirely. These services still offer a wider range of channels, exclusive content, and additional features that OTA broadcasts may not provide. As a result, cable and satellite will continue to be attractive options for many viewers who are looking for more comprehensive television offerings.

In conclusion, while ATSC 3.0 is free-to-air and has the potential to impact cable and satellite providers, it's not likely to replace these services completely. Instead, it will provide another option for viewers to access high-quality TV content and may lead to increased competition and innovation in the television industry.

 

Q. Will dot (sub) channels be affected by ATSC 3.0?

A. Dot channels, also known as subchannels, will see some changes with ATSC 3.0. This new TV standard is like a cool upgrade for broadcast television. It's going to make the picture and sound quality better, the signal more reliable, and even offer some interactive features.

One great thing about ATSC 3.0 is that it lets TV stations fit more channels into the same space, so you might see even more dot channels than before. This is because the new technology uses smarter ways to squeeze video and audio into a smaller space without losing quality.

What's more, ATSC 3.0 supports super high-quality 4K video and amazing audio, so your favorite dot channels could look and sound better than ever. This might even attract more people to watch TV through an antenna instead of cable or satellite.

But, there's one important thing to know: with ATSC 3.0, you might need a new TV or an external tuner to keep watching those dot channels. The change won't happen overnight, but it's good to be aware that at some point, you might need new equipment to enjoy all the benefits of ATSC 3.0 and its impact on dot channels.

 

Q. How will ATSC 3.0 affect TV production and video content providers?

A. ATSC 3.0 is going to have a big impact on TV production and video content providers, and in a good way. This new standard is like a breath of fresh air for the broadcast TV world, and it's going to open up lots of fun possibilities.

For TV producers, ATSC 3.0 means they can create shows and movies with stunning 4K video and top-notch audio. This could make watching TV an even better experience, and it might get more people excited about tuning in. Plus, with the ability to broadcast more channels, producers might have more chances to get their content on the air.

As for video content providers, ATSC 3.0 could help them stand out from the crowd. By offering high-quality content with cool interactive features, they can give viewers something new and exciting to enjoy. People love trying out new stuff, so this could be a great way to attract an audience.

Also, ATSC 3.0 could help level the playing field between broadcast TV and streaming services like Netflix and Hulu. Since people can watch super high-quality TV for free over the air with an antenna, they might start to think twice about paying for cable or satellite.

So, to sum it up, ATSC 3.0 is going to shake things up in the world of TV production and video content providers. It's going to make TV look and sound better, offer more chances for content creators, and give viewers more reasons to watch. It's an exciting time for everyone involved!


ATSC 3.0: A New Era of TV Broadcasting is Here

Atsc_04-3040004967Hey there, TV enthusiasts! Have you heard about ATSC 3.0, the latest and greatest development in television broadcasting technology? If not, you're in for a treat. Today, we're going to talk about ATSC 3.0, what it means for you, and how it's going to revolutionize the way you watch television. So, sit back, relax, and let's dive into the world of ATSC 3.0.

ATSC 3.0, or Advanced Television Systems Committee 3.0, is the newest version of TV broadcast standards that promises to take your viewing experience to a whole new level. It's been in development for quite some time, and now it's finally starting to roll out across the country. But what makes ATSC 3.0 so special? Let's break down the benefits for you.

First and foremost, picture quality is getting a significant upgrade. With ATSC 3.0, we're talking 4K UHD broadcasts, HDR, wide color gamut, and high frame rate. That means you'll enjoy crisper, more vibrant, and smoother visuals than ever before. Plus, it uses more efficient video codecs like H.265 HEVC, and it's designed to adapt to future codecs as they become available (hello, 8K!).

But that's not all! ATSC 3.0 also improves audio quality with the use of Dolby AC-4, which supports up to 7.1.4 channel audio and even Dolby Atmos. So, get ready for more immersive and dynamic soundscapes in your favorite shows and movies.

One of the coolest aspects of ATSC 3.0 is its focus on mobile compatibility. Imagine watching broadcast TV on your phone, tablet, or even in your car. Yep, that's right – ATSC 3.0 makes it possible, and it's just one more way this new technology is changing the game.

Now, you might be wondering how ATSC 3.0 will impact the broadcast television industry. Well, the answer is simple – it's going to make it better! With improved picture and audio quality, as well as mobile compatibility, we can expect to see more people tuning in to broadcast TV. Plus, the advanced geotargeting capabilities of ATSC 3.0 mean that you'll receive more relevant ads and emergency alerts, making for a more personalized and safer viewing experience.

Of course, there are a few downsides to consider. For one, ATSC 3.0 isn't backward compatible with ATSC 1.0, so you'll need a new TV or an external converter to take advantage of the new features. And while the targeted ads might be a plus for some, others might find them a little too invasive.

But overall, the benefits of ATSC 3.0 far outweigh the drawbacks. As it rolls out across the country, we're sure to see a new golden age of broadcast television, with better picture, sound, and overall user experience. So, get ready, TV lovers – the future of television is almost here!


The Winds of Change: AI and the American Church Experience

Ai ChurchIn recent years, we've witnessed the transformative power of technology in virtually every aspect of our lives. Now, Artificial Intelligence (AI) is knocking on the doors of American churches, and it's essential for pastors, church leaders, and media directors to understand both the potential benefits and challenges this technology presents.

The Blessings of AI

AI offers many opportunities to enhance the church experience, particularly in the areas of personalization and efficiency. Imagine offering your congregation members personalized sermons, tailor-made to address their unique spiritual needs based on their prayers, reflections, or even their engagement with the church's online resources. AI can analyze this input and, using a vast library of sermons, create custom messages that resonate with each individual.

Church administration and community outreach can also benefit from AI technology. By analyzing data and recognizing patterns, AI can help optimize resource allocation, ensuring that every church member has an opportunity to participate in and contribute to various activities. It can also help churches identify those in need within their communities and beyond, providing timely support and assistance.

The Potential Pitfalls

Despite the numerous benefits, integrating AI into the church experience is not without risks. As pastors and church leaders, it's crucial to maintain the human touch that defines your spiritual community. Sermons crafted by AI, while potentially insightful, may lack the warmth and empathy that come from a pastor who truly knows their congregation.

Privacy and surveillance concerns are other potential issues. While AI can provide valuable insights into the spiritual well-being of your congregation, care must be taken to ensure that privacy is protected, and a culture of trust is maintained within the community.

Furthermore, AI algorithms, though designed by humans, can inadvertently perpetuate biases and prejudices, potentially creating an environment that alienates some members while favoring others. It's essential to be aware of these biases and work to mitigate their impact.

Navigating the Winds of Change

As AI continues to shape the future of the American church experience, pastors, church leaders, and media directors must strike a balance between harnessing its benefits and preserving the warmth, compassion, and fellowship that lie at the heart of their communities. By approaching this technological revolution with wisdom, discernment, and a commitment to ethical practices, you can help guide your congregation into a new era of spiritual growth and connection. Embrace the winds of change, but do so with caution and a deep respect for the timeless values that have sustained your faith community for generations.


The Impact of AI on Digital Marketing

Impact-of-Artificial-Intelligence-on-Digital-MarketingJust a few years back, I found myself marveling at the magic of digital marketing, the way it seemed to have transformed the way we sell and promote products. Yet, as I sip my coffee today, I can't help but feel we're on the cusp of another revolution. It's as if the universe is whispering, "Hold my beverage, we're just getting started." Enter artificial intelligence (AI), the new game changer in digital marketing, and let me share a little story about how it will reshape the landscape over the next couple of years.

Once upon a time, not long ago, digital marketers were like modern-day gold miners, sifting through mountains of data, hoping to find that precious nugget of insight. They'd spend countless hours tracking customer behaviors, analyzing trends, and crafting the perfect marketing campaigns. But now, AI is stepping in as the all-knowing, ever-efficient assistant, making the gold rush seem like child's play.

Imagine a world where digital marketers can access a virtual crystal ball, one that can predict customer preferences and trends with astonishing accuracy. That's what AI-powered tools will do in the near future, making guesswork a thing of the past. With AI at the helm, marketers will deliver personalized messages to the right audience at the right time, creating an unprecedented level of engagement.

Moreover, picture the creative process of designing ads and social media posts being handled by a tireless, imaginative partner, one that never runs out of ideas or energy. That's AI, folks! By tapping into a vast repository of visuals, text, and data, AI can generate an endless stream of content, freeing up marketers to focus on strategy and bigger-picture thinking.

But what about the conversations we have with customers? Surely, humans will still hold the reins there, right? Well, not quite. AI chatbots are already becoming increasingly sophisticated, capable of handling complex customer interactions with ease. The next two years will see these digital conversationalists becoming virtually indistinguishable from their human counterparts.

As I finish my coffee and reflect on the future of digital marketing, I can't help but feel a mixture of awe and trepidation. AI's impact will undoubtedly create new opportunities, and with them, new challenges. But one thing is for sure: the world of digital marketing is about to become more efficient, more personalized, and more exciting than ever.

And so, my friends, let's raise our cups to the unfolding era of AI in digital marketing. In the immortal words of Bob Dylan, "The times, they are a-changin'."


The Impact of AI and ChatGPT on Education: Harnessing the Power for Better Thinking and Reasoning, with Warnings for Students

AIEd-article-image-1-2300437899In recent years, the rapid development of artificial intelligence (AI) has brought forth a myriad of applications, from self-driving cars to AI-driven digital assistants like ChatGPT. As AI continues to progress, the realm of education is poised for a transformation that could greatly impact human thinking and reasoning. To harness the potential of AI, educators must be aware of both the benefits and potential pitfalls of using such technology, as well as convey important warnings to students about potential misuse.

One significant benefit of AI, particularly ChatGPT, is its ability to provide personalized learning experiences for students. By adapting to individual learning styles and preferences, AI can tailor educational content to meet the specific needs of each student. For instance, a student struggling with algebra could receive extra support through AI-generated examples and explanations, while another student excelling in the subject might be offered more challenging problems. This personalized approach fosters deeper understanding and reasoning skills, as students can progress at their own pace.

Additionally, AI can help develop critical thinking skills by offering students access to a wealth of diverse perspectives. AI-driven systems can analyze and synthesize vast amounts of information, presenting multiple viewpoints on any given topic. By engaging with these varied perspectives, students learn to question assumptions, weigh evidence, and make informed decisions—crucial skills for success in the modern world.

However, there are potential pitfalls when incorporating AI into education, and students should be aware of the risks associated with misuse. One common issue is using AI to generate homework answers or plagiarize content. Students must be reminded that education is about learning, and relying on AI-generated answers without understanding the underlying concepts can hinder their intellectual growth. Educators should emphasize the importance of academic integrity and the consequences of plagiarism, while fostering a learning environment that encourages genuine engagement with the material.

Another warning for students is the potential for AI to become a crutch, discouraging them from seeking help from human sources, such as teachers or peers. While AI can be a valuable resource, students should be encouraged to seek assistance from educators when they encounter difficulties, as human interaction and collaboration are vital for well-rounded learning.

In conclusion, AI and ChatGPT hold tremendous potential for enhancing education and fostering better thinking and reasoning skills among students. By providing personalized learning experiences and access to diverse perspectives, AI can help students develop crucial critical thinking abilities. However, educators must be cautious to avoid pitfalls such as over-reliance on AI-generated content and the perpetuation of biases, while also warning students about potential misuse. By using AI as a supplementary tool and promoting active engagement, we can harness the power of AI to create a brighter future for education.


The Impact of AI on Video Production

Impact-of-AI-in-Our-Daily-Lives-720x340Artificial Intelligence (AI) is revolutionizing the way video production is done, and the impact of AI on the video production industry is set to grow significantly in the next two years.

One of the most significant ways that AI is already impacting video production is through automated video editing. AI-powered tools can analyze raw footage and automatically create edited videos that are more engaging and visually appealing. This enables video producers to work more efficiently and create higher-quality content in less time.

AI is also making an impact in the area of post-production. With the help of AI-powered tools, video producers can quickly and easily add special effects, adjust color grading, and create 3D animations. This means that even smaller production teams can create high-quality, professional-looking videos without the need for expensive equipment or extensive technical knowledge.

Another area where AI is expected to play a significant role in the coming years is in the creation of personalized content. By leveraging AI, video producers can create customized videos that are tailored to individual viewers' interests, preferences, and behaviors. This leads to higher engagement, increased viewer satisfaction, and ultimately, greater ROI.

AI is also making it easier to optimize videos for search engines and social media platforms. By analyzing data and identifying trends, AI-powered tools can help video producers create content that is more likely to be discovered and shared online.

Overall, the impact of AI on video production in the next two years is expected to be significant. While there are some concerns about the potential risks of AI-powered video production, the benefits are likely to far outweigh the risks. By leveraging AI to automate video editing, improve post-production, create personalized content, and optimize videos for search engines and social media, video producers can work more efficiently, create higher-quality content, and reach their target audience more effectively than ever before.