OK, I’ll admit it. I’ve been slow to come around to the text messaging phenomenon. But Jacobs Media’s Technology Web Poll is a reason to rethink this technology. Yes, texting is the domain of the young, but like so many other media habits, it eventually becomes widespread. Think about IMing. Just a few years ago, it was the province of teenage girls. Today, our poll shows that nearly half of Rock Radio listeners are busily IMing on at least a weekly basis.
Texting may end up in a similar boat. A key will be for radio to figure out the best way to apply it. We asked follow-up questions about the types of things that listeners might like to receive in text messages from stations. Some want information, while others simply want to win prizes. Of course, there’s a large group that would prefer to simply text with friends.
Recently, an example of creative texting occurred at a concert, of all places. The source? Bono, of course, the smartest technophile in the Rock community. During a concert in San Jose, Bono devoted some time to human rights, and then asked everyone to grab their cell phones and text in a number that would automatically add their names to a petition dedicated to improving human rights around the world. There’s obviously a “permission” component here, but it opens up the possibilities to create text applications.
Keep an open mind here, and let’s continue to dialogue about texting in ways that both stations and the audience can benefit from.
Jacobs Media has consistently walked the walk in the digital space, providing insights and guidance through its well-read national Techsurveys.
In 2008, jacapps was launched - a mobile apps company that has designed and built more than 1,300 apps for both the Apple and Android platforms. In 2013, the DASH Conference was created - a mashup of radio and automotive, designed to foster better understanding of the "connected car" and its impact.
Along with providing the creative and intellectual direction for the company, Fred consults many of Jacobs Media's commercial and public radio clients, in addition to media brands looking to thrive in the rapidly changing tech environment.
Fred was inducted into the Radio Hall of Fame in 2018.
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Why do you all wait for “Your Research” to tell you what is up… As a consultant and forward thinker don’t you “think” you would of seen IMing as becoming mainstream, and texting has been around for 5 years and used by your so-called “Target Market” for the last 3 years. So basically I look at you all being at least 3 years behind, maybe that says the same for Corporate Radio. Did you know the kids have color tv’s and running water