Network programming

Network programming is a method of broadcasting whereby a non-regional programme is syndicated accross all regional franchises of a television network nationally. The process is used for the majority of non-local programming on Network Six, and forms the bulk of programming on competing ITV Network.

In addition to network programming, the phrase national franchise is also used to indicate a regional network syndicated programme, operated and produced by a certain company with no interference on a regional level. Within Network Six, the national news and breakfast franchises are run by Aquidia Holdings under the names of Six News and SixAM. Within ITV, the national franchises are ITN (national news) and GMTV (national breakfast). The regional franchise operators are generally not involved in national franchises, and may only opt out in the case of emergency or for regional activities as contracted by the national franchise operator.