Hulu to Change Business Model?

When Hulu first debuted its free online video-watching service in 2008, it was a way for networks like NBC and Fox to circumvent illegal downloading.

Now, three years later, many consumers exclusively watch TV online. Free streaming is cutting into the networks' traditional revenue streams, causing Fox, NBC Universal and Disney to reconsider Hulu's business model.

In a wonderfully in-depth story this morning, The Wall Street Journal examined the form Hulu could take in the future. Would you watch Hulu if it were a live-streaming cable provider instead of its current iteration?

Because the way people watch TV has changed, networks must figure out how to distribute their content without losing money. Or, as the WSJ put it, "how soon to release movies or shows online without destroying their value in other lucrative 'windows' such as DVDs or reruns on cable TV -- and at what price."

Their solution? Instead of a content hub, be a content provider. "Hulu management has discussed recasting Hulu as an online cable operator that would use the Web to send live TV channels and video-on-demand content to subscribers," reports the WSJ.

Honestly, that's great news. While Hulu is convenient, completely changing the way the site works shows that the networks aren't adverse to innovation. They're willing to adapt to the consumers instead of forcing us to figure out ways to circumvent their outdated technology. Plus, an online cable network sounds fascinating.

Tell us: Would you still use Hulu if the site changed completely?