Exploring how media organisations create different types of media products with distinctive characteristics, looking at specific examples of these products in order to understand the advantages and disadvantages of these products and the implications for the organisation.

• Characteristics of mainstream products
• Characteristics of independent products
• Characteristics of niche products

What is a niche product?

A good or service with features that appeal to a particular market subgroup. A typical niche product will be easily distinguished from other products, and it will also be produced and sold for specialized uses within its corresponding niche market. Niche products have specific properties and uses. This means they are only applicable to certain products etc. A good example of this is the movie ‘Inception’.

What is a mainstream product?

In a Mainstream Market, products and services appeal to a broader spectrum of the society, and the products and services are readily available to the general public. Mainstream Marketing targets all the individuals and profits generated depend upon the quantity of products sold. Mainstream products generate more revenue as of this but have to stay within strict schedules. A good example of this is a new movie named ‘IT’.

What is an independent product?

An independent film, independent movie, indie film or indie movie is a feature film that is produced outside of the major film studio system, in addition to being produced and distributed by independent entertainment agencies. These creations have less money and a smaller budget than mainstream movies but have more potential to grow and become popular in the future. An example of this is the movie ‘Lost in Translation’.