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THE BENEFITS AND CHALLENGES OF RADIO



Radio is undoubtedly one of the  cheapest and most effective tools of communication. Effective because it enjoys a wider reach compared to other forms of media as most people can afford it. It is very easy for audiences to connect, bond and even form relationships with their fans and hence it quickly attracts advertising based on the ratings. There is no media that better provides a platform for audiences to dialogue concerning issues affecting society. Radio gives voice to the voiceless. 

Even though radio enjoys a multitude of benefits, challenges inevitably abound, with the major impetus being the growing technology, which is constantly pushing radio to an uncertain future. Audiences are exhibiting less station loyalty as they pursue other forms of media such as personalized playlist equipment like the ipod, satellite and internet stations, podcasts and so forth. It is increasingly becoming difficult for radio to attract and serve audiences. Needless to say, because of this trend, advertisers are also following suit. 

However, all is not lost. Radio is still king. It is alive and well and even if it were to lose half of it's audience, radio would still be the most viable, competitive, and effective medium of communication. It is therefore a challenge to the radio players to discover creative ways of integrating the emerging forms of media in tandem with radio.  

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