Sure it’s cliché to call online video the wild west, but it’s also accurate. The online video strategies being undertaken by traditional media conglomerates have been questioned by almost everyone without context. In the Wild West very little context exists.
While CBS has been widely praised for their syndication strategy, it’s not necessarily any better than strategies undertaken by ABC or NBC. The content produced by networks may be good enough to drive viewers to centralized portals with a technologically advanced delivery channel. Hulu’s 50-50 good content goes here portal/syndication model may well be a success simply by virtue of being a recognized brand name for NBC & FOX content online.
Regardless of the outcome, this is a fun industry to be a part of. Everything is evolving so quickly that we need to stay focused on moving forward, not criticizing those trying to find their way. Enjoy it, and lend a hand by joining constructively in the conversation.