Broadcast planning
Plan around measurement periods without treating dates as universal
Audience-measurement schedules vary by market, platform and agreement. Confirm the calendar used by your station or measurement provider.
Planning note: This page intentionally does not publish an unverified one-size-fits-all calendar. Ask the station research director or measurement provider for the current market-specific schedule.
What to confirm
Market
Identify the designated market area and whether local measurement is continuous or period-based.
Platform
Separate linear broadcast, cable, connected-TV and digital measurement products.
Reporting period
Record the exact start and end dates, time zone and delivery deadline.
Method
Note panel, meter or modeled-data changes before comparing results over time.
Assignment calendar
- Request the official schedule and methodology from station research.
- Back-plan enterprise pieces, special programming and promotion.
- Protect editorial judgment: audience measurement should not replace news value.
- After the period, compare like with like and document methodology changes.
Guides on this desk
Networks and stations
Use Network and Broadcast News Research to check station and network records before you plan around a ratings period.
Sources
- AssignmentEditor editorial standardsMethod and maintenance policy