Where does radio fit?

[WarwickRadioFan]

If the traditional media of radio and newspaper are fading fast due to declining listeners/readers and evaporating ad sales, don't we have to ask where can radio fit in a world that now offers Internet, I-Pods, satellite radio, text messaging, etc.?

What can radio offer to stay alive (and thrive) that will save it from being forgotten or overlooked?

Local talk radio seems to be one piece of the puzzle. Sports/Talk is another example. Of course, radio can play a major role in weather and other emergency events, but those are not enough to keep it going and relevant the rest of the time.

If asked the question "why tune into 630 WPRO," the answer is obviously "to hear news and discussion of local events and politics."

If asked the question "why tune into B101," is the answer a disappointing "to hear a limited collection of songs with canned announcing that I can more enjoyably find and listen to on the Internet or from my I-Pod."

For some reason, television seems to be surviving where radio isn't. I suppose if every channel started airing only music videos or reruns of old television shows, then TV might be in the same boat. Why is the production of new product for television apparently viable and profitable, but production for radio is nowhere to be found?

 

[oaktree]

I'd rethink your ideas about television and "business." Television is facing the same problems with radio. Cancellations of shows are up and revenue is not flowing into local TV like before. Viewership is down on the "major 4" networks and is, now after the election, scattering across a growing cable band of more choices.

The more choices, especially in mediocrity, the less a concentrated level of advertising commitment by sponsors. The less sponsor, the more cancellations. The more cancellations, the less viewers who have been searching for other alternatives. The less alternatives ... they go to other "forms" of entertainment and information.

 

[WarwickRadioFan]

You may be correct that television is facing the same problems as radio, I simply don't know. Still, television studios are turning out ongoing series that remain profitable and are creating pilots in search of that next hit show. Radio seems to have simply given up on itself. That's my main concern and point.