Bravo Media announced a new two-part initiative, Bravo’s "B-Hive" and "Influentials," created in an effort to give the network’s core audience content in tune with what they want and to build a network of ambassadors for the brand. The Bravo "B-Hive" is an online program that creates customized viewing parties for fans complete with sweepstakes and exclusive content, and the Bravo "Influentials" is a community of Bravo fans who will provide feedback and opinions to the network via regular polling. The announcement was made by Lisa Hsia, SVP of New Media & Digital Strategy.
"Bravo’s core strategy for the future is to build up brand ambassadors by word of mouse," said Hsia. "By going beyond the television screen and directly into the audience’s world, Bravo will be able to grow its user base and create programming and content that our audience actually wants, will use and consume. This initiative allows them to experience Bravo on-air, online and at home, so they can essentially have real life interaction with our brand."
Bravo "B-Hive" will allow fans to throw at-home viewing parties using tools provided by the network to take their connection to their favorite shows to the next level by providing fun ideas and access to exclusive content and sweepstakes. Bravo is kicking off the "B-Hive" with the fifth season of "Project Runway" and partnering with Bluefly.com to offer a sweepstakes to participants where they can win a $1000 shopping spree and the chance to have a "Project Runway" alumni attend their viewing party. Fans who upload pictures, provide comments on the show and their overall viewing experience can be entered into the sweepstakes. The Bravo "B-Hive" will live online at www.bravotv.com/bhive. Bravo will promote "B-Hive" through on-air promos and customized spots driving awareness to the initiative and the "B-Hive" website.
Bravo’s "Influentials" consist of a panel of core Bravo fans who will provide feedback on Bravo’s series in order to further develop programming and content in line with what the network’s core fans want. The network will poll the "Influentials" on a regular basis and will in turn reward participants through exclusive contests, prizing and behind-the-scenes information. The feedback generated from these polls will be used to develop the network’s overall strategy for upcoming programming and initiatives.
