Ensuring Stability Amid High-Pressure Transition Challenges

Ensuring Stability Amid High-Pressure Transition Challenges Video

Managing complexity and mitigating risks to achieve a seamless broadcast separation under tight deadlines.

Company & Industry Overview

This media and entertainment company operates regional sports networks under a recognized brand, providing unparalleled local sports coverage. Serving as the television home to more than half of all MLB, NHL, and NBA teams, it produces approximately 5,000 live professional telecasts annually.

With exclusive broadcasting rights, the organization plays a pivotal role in its regional markets. Amid evolving industry dynamics, including structural realignments and the shift toward digital streaming, strategic oversight and operational efficiency have been critical in sustaining its leadership in sports broadcasting.

Challenge

The client faced significant timeline, operational, and technical challenges while separating from its parent company. High leadership turnover, difficulty defining strategy, and regional misalignment created substantial difficulties, risking disruption to employees, continuity of operations, and momentum during a complex, time-bound Transition and Separation Agreement. Failure to complete on time risked escalated costs, regulatory non-compliance, and potential reputational damage, compounding the separation’s complexity.

Pain Points

  • High leadership turnover and changing accountability
  • Operational inefficiencies impacting business processes
  • Financial constraints exacerbated by consumer trends
  • Legacy systems and processes contributing to tech debt
  • Change fatigue from continuous business transitions and transformations

Think’s Approach

Using our unique Rapid Control Process, we started by assessing critical systems, unpacking dependencies and identifying risks. We developed end-to-end testing and operational playbooks for broadcast playout, master control, digital operations, programming, traffic, and distribution, capturing workflows essential for independent operation. Our team validated new systems through extensive testing and maintained strategic alignment between the parent company, subsidiary, and partners. Our hands-on collaboration and structured methodology ensured a seamless transition and long-term operational success.

Results

Within 3 months, Think’s team transitioned the client’s internal broadcast systems, meeting the compressed timeline with no off-air time. Full cutover was completed in 6 months, with 100% of TSA transitions successfully executed, ensuring a seamless separation and long-term business improvements. Throughout the process, Think supported the client through strategic partnerships and continuous communications with key executive stakeholders, positioning them for sustained success and growth.

“Partnering with Think was a game-changer for us. They ensured seamless execution during our system overhaul, and their proactive approach meant zero off-air time—a critical factor in the media business. Their dedication kept us on the air, on schedule, and ahead of the game.”
– SVP Sports Operations

Outcomes

  • Achieved technical and functional independence with improved broadcast systems and streamlined operations.
  • Reduced operational inefficiencies, improving system performance and stability.
  • Client praised seamless transition, effective vendor management, and support.

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