Final answer:
Traditional mass media funding in the U.S. includes advertising and subscriptions, with digital pay plans and social media as newer alternatives. There is no mention of public funding as a new alternative.
Step-by-step explanation:
Options that have not been considered as an alternative to traditional ways of funding mass media in the U.S. would typically be those that do not align with commercial or market-driven strategies. Traditional funding for mass media primarily comes from advertising revenues and subscription fees. Alternatives that have been explored include digital pay plans, social media integration, and consolidation with larger media conglomerates. However, in the context provided, there is no mention of public funding models, such as government grants or viewer/listener donations (as with public broadcasting), being presented as a new alternative. Traditional media is increasingly utilizing digital avenues to counteract the decline in print and conventional television advertising revenue.