Virgin Media unveils TV rankings

UK cable operator Virgin Media has unveiled a new TV measurement tool, ranking shows based on live and on-demand viewing figures and viewer response on social networks. 

Virgin Media said ‘The Hotlist’ is designed to give “alternative insights into the full connected digital entertainment experience enjoyed by people today.”

Using an algorithm, which Virgin says has been verified by experts at the London School of Economics, the measurement system takes into account both live viewing figures and on-demand requests through Virgin, along with engagement and viewer sentiment, gleaned from sites like Facebook, Twitter and YouTube.

“With TiVo, we are helping people find the very best content available whilst the rise of social media and second screens is also fuelling a whole new wave of engagement with TV through friends and social circles online. The Hotlist looks to capture that buzz and provide insight into what’s hot on TV right now,” said Nick Forward, director of TV at Virgin Media.

Based on viewing, engagement and sentiment, Virgin gives shows a score out of 10. For May, Virgin said The Graham Norton Show and Britain’s Got Talent were the hottest shows, each with a ranking of seven. Following this were Doctor Who and the FA Cup Final, which received scores of six.