Back when the average primetime network program had an 18.0 rating, the sampling wobble that occurs in all data except for a true census was never thought of as a problem. But today, when the average rating is below a 1.0 because of the vast ocean of program choices, broadcasters and others are understandably displeased to see a series’ ratings go up and down from telecast to telecast. It's a hazard to planning and running a business which depends on those numbers. Stability is a target condition.
National Rating Swings are Mostly Real -- It’s Reality That’s Unstable
![National Rating Swings are Mostly Real -- It’s Reality That’s Unstable](/media/articles/iStock-1345912457.jpg.550x380_q85_box-24%2C0%2C639%2C427_crop.jpg.webp)