ABSTRACT
Understanding how radio stations organise their broadcasts to create a cohesive and engaging on-air product that attracts and retains listeners is of utmost importance. This chapter discusses how radio formats and common music formats can help differentiate content and appeal to specific audiences based on their tastes, lifestyles, and preferences.
It also analyses the use of branding by the radio stations to shape their on-air presentation and identity, creating a distinctive voice and image for their station. Moreover, it explores the way in which radio stations design their daily schedule for on-air shows, for which Fixed Point Charts (FPC) and rundowns or Content Link Breakups (CLB) are discussed. It elaborates on the use of the concept of a “clock” to outline the placement of elements within hourly segments.
It underlines the importance of airchecks, which allow radio personalities to improve their performance and ensure consistent quality in their broadcasts. It also familiarises the reader with the basic terminology used in the programming context.
“Designing Broadcast” aims to provide the reader with the knowledge and resources required to effectively structure and manage a compelling and successful on-air schedule that meets the needs of both listeners and advertisers.
