How do focus groups impact the success of a reality show?

How do focus groups impact the success of a reality show?

Focus grouping is a common method of evaluating a television show project - usually a pilot. They can be used in different ways. Some networks use focus groups as the decision maker. If the focus group liked it, they will green light the show. If the focus group hated it, you're dead. Some networks know what they want, but they want the focus group to help them figure out how to make it better. I prefer that, personally. I feel like the executives who know what they want for their channel, know what they want for their channel independent of what a focus group says or does. If you want to show it to a focus group to find out what their favorite thing is or that something about it is confusing, you can learn from a focus group about your show. I like to see it used as a tool rather than as a decision maker.