One Month Video Review: GigaOM TV and WebbAlert

It's been a month now (boy does time fly!) since Morgan Webb and GigaOm launched their video/TV shows. I thought it might be beneficial to take another look and see if the shows are better, worse or the same as their initial airings.

WebbAlert - Hosted by Morgan Webb

I find the WebbAlert show content to be about the same in terms of quality from her first few shows. She has made some improvements, appears to be a couple of inches further back from the camera, though she still needs to be another 6-12" inches to reduce her neck bobs and weaves. I had drinks tonight with a person who said that he finds her show appealing if he misses a day of the blogosphere. What really irks me is her daily hair change. I am not sure why she does this but it is unneeded and many times (including today) looks like she just woke up :). Morgan, leave your hair one way. Morgan has a bubbly personality and seems to understand tech. If her producer would make some small tweaks, the show would have some real positive possibilities.

Overall rating change from launch: No change

GigaOm TV - Hosted by Om Malik and Joyce Kim

I can tell that Om and Joyce are listening to feedback about the show in both content and in production. They have stopped the overselling of the show in text which is great. Just sell it for what it is, people appreciate that. They have featured a good batch of guests over the weeks which can certainly increase ratings. I found the "battle" between Jason Calacanis and Kevin Rose to be the most missed opportunity for the show. They sold it as a battle, but it was nothing more than two guys praising each other. On today's episode about Web analytics (a topic I am very passionate about), I could tell Om wanted to really get emotional and excited but he reserved his "rant" for after the panelists left. As I noted on Om's blog, he needs to play the bad cop and let Joyce play the good cop. This could really bring the show to life as it is just so boring currently.

As for the production value, it is increasing week by week. Tonight they had a lit logo behind them and the video angle appears to be better. Om needs a pillow behind his back and under his butt to put him more on the same level as Joyce. Then let's move the camera up to a straight on level (instead of shot from under) and tighten the shot. It would be nice to see Joyce and Om's mouth move as they speak.

Net result: the show has improved. Om, I am bringing you a pastrami on rye from Katz's when I come to SF next month to help you get some of your NYC fire back.

Overall rating change from launch: +2 points