THE WEB EXPERIENCE TODAY

The current Web environment for sports is divided between delivering at-home programming over 28k and 56k modems (broadband penetration is growing but is by no means pervasive) or, in the case of work environments, higher speed T1 line. This dichotomy makes production options difficult, because the richer multimedia experience is largely unavailable to the home computer. As interactive media producers seek to expand their connection with their broadcast partners through the use of full-motion video and simulcast features, their efforts are limited to workplace applications. Broadband penetration and the growing trend toward programming for wireless devices will open the scope of opportunity for new production options but the core entertainment value will continue to be driven by the trends toward converged experiences.