näytesarja

Näytesarja, also known as a pilot episode or pilot, is a single episode of a television series that serves as a test or trial run for a potential full season. The purpose of a näytesarja is to gauge audience interest and determine whether the series should be produced and broadcast. It is often used by networks and production companies to evaluate the viability of a new show before committing significant resources to its development.

Näytesarja episodes are typically produced with a smaller budget and cast than subsequent episodes, as the primary goal is to assess the concept, characters, and overall appeal of the series. If the näytesarja is well-received, it may lead to the production of a full season. Conversely, if the näytesarja does not meet expectations, the series may be canceled or retooled before production of a full season begins.

The term "näytesarja" is derived from the Finnish language, where "näyte" means "sample" or "example," and "sarja" means "series." The concept of a näytesarja is not unique to Finnish television; similar pilot episodes are used in the production of television series worldwide. The use of näytesarja episodes allows networks and production companies to make informed decisions about the future of a series, helping to ensure that only the most promising projects move forward into full production.