Google Watch - Archive - NBC CEO Zucker: We've Got a Better Business Model Than Google

NBC CEO Zucker: We’ve Got a Better Business Model Than Google

Written By
Steve Bryant
Steve Bryant
Sep 25, 2006
1 minute read
eWeek content and product recommendations are editorially independent. We may make money when you click on links to our partners. Learn More

In a speech studded with references to Web 2.0, long tail economics and media critic Marshall McLuhan, NBC President Jeff Zucker said today that Google has a compelling business model, but that it doesn’t compare to the business models of the big media companies.

“Google was built on the power of math and algorithms. NBC is built on brilliant programming,” said Zucker, speaking before a crowded room at the Mixx advertising conference in New York. “Both are compelling models, but I don’t think Google’s model is as powerful as Viacom [and other media companies] as the market would have you believe.”

During his speech, Zucker told the audience repeatedly that the high production values and big budgets of television networks will continue to engage consumers. Zucker acknowledged the power of the Internet and said NBC is using online media, such as iTunes, NBC 24/7 and cell phone programming, to deliver its content.

“It’s not what it’s on,” Zucker said, referring to the multiple platforms on which NBC distributes its content, “it’s what’s on it. The program, not the platform.”

eWeek Logo

eWeek has the latest technology news and analysis, buying guides, and product reviews for IT professionals and technology buyers. The site's focus is on innovative solutions and covering in-depth technical content. eWeek stays on the cutting edge of technology news and IT trends through interviews and expert analysis. Gain insight from top innovators and thought leaders in the fields of IT, business, enterprise software, startups, and more.

Property of TechnologyAdvice. © 2026 TechnologyAdvice. All Rights Reserved

Advertiser Disclosure: Some of the products that appear on this site are from companies from which TechnologyAdvice receives compensation. This compensation may impact how and where products appear on this site including, for example, the order in which they appear. TechnologyAdvice does not include all companies or all types of products available in the marketplace.