Okay, I want a proposal on the following:
(1) A method for delivering video content (a) over the Internet, (b) on demand (i.e. program-by-program and episode-by-episode basis), (c) that will scale with increased demand, and (d) at a quality level competetive with television. [Today we have some that meet the first two conditions, but not really the scalability requirement, and usually not the last one].
(2) A means of financially supporting the use of the technology in (1) in such a way that will not be burdensome to consumers. Especially, the scheme should use no digital rights management. Preferably, this method should not require subscriptions. [Perhaps selling DVDs or film? Or merchandising? Or donations? Or credited sponsorship? I like that last one - credit in the next episode anyone who gave above a certain amount of money.]
Some work is being done on (1), though as mentioned above, nothing is quite there yet. I don't think anyone has really made any general suggestions regarding (2). Obviously, some groups have already found a way to support themselves; will any of these methods distribute money in a useful way when there is a drastically increased supply of programming, and, if so, which is best? Otherwise, we will need a completely new one. Advertising in its current form will likely not be possible, and probably not desirable; product placement is to be despised.
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