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 turns a laptop and mobile phone or GSM modem into a communications hub. FrontlineSMS enables users to send and receive text messages with large groups of people without requiring Internet access.
FrontlineSMS:Radio. Giving Radio Listeners A Voice \~/
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.
Watch the video below to see Sharath Srinivasan, Director of CGHR speak about the radio project at a recent event on global poverty and technology in October 2010.
The FrontlineSMS:Radio software plugin, in development in early 2011, will extend and customise 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 stories and song requests. This interaction has the potential to engage communities in civic activism and promote social change.
Other project partners include: Developing Radio Partners, who work with local stations to strengthen the quality of radio programming & stations and provide complete radio consulting services, with a focus on program excellence that leads to more vibrant, participatory communities; as well as Internews: an international media development organisation whose mission is to empower local media worldwide to give people the news and information they need, the ability to connect, and the means to make their voices heard. 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. \~/
