Network Clearance

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Home soda machine manufacturer, SodaStream, who recently had its Super Bowl ad rejected by CBS is finding new life. While the company will instead be forced to run an alternate ad that has been shown previously, there is a chance that the press SodaStream is receiving from its rejection will create enough buzz to support…

One of the major components of broadcasting commercials on national networks is obtaining pre-approval from the network clearance departments. Such clearance considers many aspects of a commercial’s content, but often the most challenging area is substantiation of claims.

The networks require that all advertising claims be valid and adequately substantiated. A research editor at each…

One of the major components of the network clearance process is addressing clearance issues with the network editors.

Below is a list of helpful tips to keep in mind when addressing clearance issues:

  • Network clearance issues can be addressed with the editors in written form (email or letter), by phone or in person.
  • Address issues

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The networks require that all revisions to existing commercials be submitted for review and approval prior to airing.   

Substantive changes, such as those involving claims, will need to be submitted in storyboard or script form for preliminary clearance, followed by a final, slated version and as-produced script for final approval.   

Minor revisions need only be…

Recently, a few clients have inquired as to whether or not commercials need to be cleared with the cable networks. 

Some cable networks do require that commercials be submitted for review and approval prior to airing. The cable networks that require clearance are ABC Family, Fox Cable Networks, MTV Networks, Nickelodeon and MyNetwork TV. NBC Universal Cable…

From time to time I like to advise clients on simple things they can do to help facilitate the network clearance process.

Below is a list of helpful tips advertisers and agencies should keep in mind when clearing commercials with the networks:

  1. Be sure to send supporting documents (e.g. claim substantiation, product labeling, date of

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Often clients will ask what the networks’ requirements are for supers. 

The networks’ production guidelines for supers are as follows:

Visual disclaimers:

1.  Must be clearly legible against a contrasting background and appropriately drop-shaded.
2.  Must be at least 22 scan lines, with letters, words, and lines spaced so as to be easily read.
3. 

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