'American Idol' Producers Considering Big Changes: Yes Please!

'American Idol' executive producer, Ken Warwick hopped on the phone yesterday for a somewhat random, though very much appreciated conference call with the press. With all the attention focused on the voting process, after Pia Toscano's elimination, it was reassuring to hear that Warwick and company are mulling over some major changes.

Though Warwick said there won't be any adjustments this season, it's clear 'Idol's' tenth year and the changes it brought, have been a learning process for producers. The world has changed quite a bit since the show first hit the airwaves, back in 2002. Here's a breakdown of the possible changes Warwick discussed and our thoughts on why they're imperative for 'Idol's' survival.

Limiting the number of text message votes

Yes, it's 2011 and we've all more or less incorporated text messaging into our communications scheme, but some have embraced it more than others, if you will. Chances are if you're not old enough to drive and you have a Justin Bieber poster on your wall, you send more text messages than I do. Nothing wrong with that, except it hands a major voting tool to a select demographic that skews the competition. Here's what Ken Warwick said about 'The Text Factor:'

"We are going to have discussions on how we can keep it fair. If people want to vote kids, I'm not going to start fiddling with the votes or do anything that's untowards. If that's the way it goes, I've just got to swallow it and maybe change the voting system slightly next year. Maybe we limit the amount of SMS votes, or online votes. We're talking about it."

Addressing the Female Voting Block

It's no secret that most dudes would rather watch 'The Ultimate Fighter' than 'American Idol' but after three male winners in a row, 'Idol's' fanbase and its effect on female contestants is a growing concern, especially after 'Pia-Gate.' I'm not sure exactly what can be done about it, but at least Warwick and company are taking it into account for next season. Here's what the EP said on the issue:

"Most reality shows are female driven either my mums or by young girls. We know we're going to get a heftier amount of female votes...case in point–losing Pia a couple of weeks ago–It's something we're going to have a long discussion about after we finish. We won't be in the process of changing anything at the moment."

Giving the judges a say ala 'Dancing with the Stars'

This is probably the most realistic change kicked around as of late, and the one most desperately needed. Reality competitions have changed dramatically since 'Idol' broke new ground back in 2002. Warwick was quick to point out the number of competitive reality shows on television, these days, when asked about 'The X Factor' threat.

"I'm not about to change anything radically to try to keep up with anything I haven't even seen yet or hasn't been proven," said the producer, regarding making any changes in reaction to 'The X Factor.' However, he did say moving to a 'DWTS' format is under consideration. "That's just one of the ideas on the table. There are a number," said Warwick.

We'll be eager to see whether or not any of these changes come into play in season 11. However with several new shows vying for a piece of the singing competition pie, 'American Idol' will need more than a pretty face and a wisecracking rockstar to keep viewers coming back to the original. For more on Warwick's talk with the press, check out MJ's Big Blog and let us know your thoughts on the potential changes in the comments!

'American Idol' airs Wednesdays and Thursdays at 8PM ET on FOX.