Applying Radio Techniques to TV (Video) News

Over the past 50 years, few mediums have matched the competitiveness of radio. During its second golden era, from approximately 1956 to 1986, radio reached its peak of innovation. To remain relevant, creativity was essential. So, what if we transferred some of that innovative spirit to TV and video news? This would require a fresh perspective and some imaginative rethinking. Here are some radio-inspired ideas that could enhance news and information delivery:

**Call-Out Research:**
Why not test stories daily to determine which are most important for your audience? Understanding what's gaining traction and what's losing interest can be invaluable. Stories, much like songs, have life cycles. While input from journalists is crucial for editorial decisions, call-out data can serve as a secret ingredient to gauge the current pulse of America.

**Franchises:**
Radio has had its block parties, twofers, and Beatle breaks—trademarks embedded in station identity. Similarly, there are information-based equivalents that can enrich and elevate the format, providing depth and enhancing the overall image.

**Playlist Rotations:**
Rotating stories and segments akin to music playlists can add sophistication to story delivery. Creating a story playlist ensures priority, balance, daypart enhancement  and even counter-programming, allowing for a more strategic approach.

**Street Promotion:**
This isn’t about gimmicks like wet T-shirt contests; it’s about establishing a new visibility avenue centered on information.  No one beat radio in its golden age for promotional street coverage that can easily be migrated to other aggressive media

**Countdowns and Dedicated Days:**
Events like the Top 500 songs or Beatles A to Z are significant in radio. There are equivalent events in the information space that can go beyond mini-documentaries and specials, creating a new wave of programming inspired by the radio playbook.

While these radio-inspired strategies would need to be adapted for the information landscape, they offer fresh approaches to news and information, drawing from a related medium. All it takes is imagination and the willingness to embrace new ideas and the ability to weave  these radio ideas into the credibility focused news system.