The business models of media are unique and diverse.  The media industry is one of few that deals with intangible—or conceptual, non-material—goods.  As such, there is no single method of operating in the media industry; each firm can operate on its own business model.

In the United States, the media is the only industry expressly protected by the nation’s Constitution (First Amendment), due to its public interest role as a purveyor of free and creative expression, independent thought and diverse perspectives.⁵⁹ On the other hand, nearly all major media companies are commercial firms whose investors care about revenues, costs and profits.

59 Croteau, David and Hoynes, William. The Business of Media. p. 1

Next: Evaluating the Business of Media