About
FrontlineSMS:Radio is developing software which will assist community radio stations to interact dynamically with audiences by harnessing the power of SMS text messaging. Radio represents the dominant media source for many and SMS is increasingly being used by radio stations to facilitate two-way communication with listeners.
FrontlineSMS:Radio will be built on the core technology of FrontlineSMS, a freely downloadable, open source software which assists with the management of SMS using a laptop and mobile phone or GSM modem. FrontlineSMS enables users to send and receive text messages with large groups of people without requiring Internet access.
Giving Radio Listeners A Voice \~/
Watch Amy O’Donnell, FrontlineSMS:Radio Project Manager speak about the project at an event to mark World Radio Day in London February 2012.
The project is already working with community stations to discover how combining radio with mobile phone technology serves to engage and mobilise listening audiences. Radio represents the dominant media source for many people worldwide and it represents a vital outreach particularly for rural communities; however this type of communication remains mostly one way. By introducing FrontlineSMS technology, an increasing number of stations have been able to send, receive and manage SMS messages which has stimulated debate on issues such as health, governance and the environment.
FrontlineSMS is delighted to pursue this venture in collaboration with Cambridge University’s Centre of Governance and Human Rights (CGHR). In October 2010, the Centre launched a two-year research project to explore the extent to which new information and communications technologies influence citizen participation in governance processes. The research will focus on monitoring how communities access and input into information on social issues throughout the lifecycle of the project.
FrontlineSMS:Radio will extend and customize the FrontlineSMS platform for the requirements of a radio station. It will incorporate specific features to assist community radio stations to achieve more efficient and creative two-way SMS communication to complement their programme output. Ideas for how this hybrid media tool might be used include allowing listeners to contribute their opinions, react to current affairs and register their vote in radio polls as well as submit news tips or song requests. This interaction has the potential to engage communities in civic activism and promote social change. To learn more about FrontlineSMS, please visit www.frontlinesms.com
The project is kindly funded by The Cairns Family Charitable Trust, The Indigo Trust and the Isaac Newton Trust.
FrontlineSMS:Radio. Giving Radio Listeners a Voice. \~/
