For Public Stations, Satellite Programming May Signal Trouble Ahead

An article in the Washington Post says Public Radio is in danger of severe competition from Satellite Radio.

With the start of former NPR Morning Edition host, Bob Edwards, one hour program on XM Satellite, many NPR program distributorsd may be looking to satellite radio for distribution of programming. Why? Because satellite radio can find additional money to pruchase program. It couild be a healthy revenue stream. This, accroding to the Psot, will signal danger to NPR stations.

I'm not sure the Post has thought this through. While some NPR and other distributors may find a home for some programming on the satellite providers, listeners will have to "buy" into satellite radio. There is a fairly high initial investment of about $200, depedning on where you will listen, and a $10 per month fee. People who are inclined to use every new technology will find an advantage to satellite radio. It's interesting, it's fun and there are 100+ channels.

Here is what the Post forgot, radio is still a local medium. While there are some NPR stations that simply channel NPR programming with little or no local identity, the vast majority of public radio stations have a string local identity and programming. One of the best examples of how strong a local station can be is WBEZ, Chicago Public Radio.

If some NPR programming were not available to local stations, that would save the stations money and make them more viable and valuable to the communities they serve.

Is satellite radio a danger to local public radio stations? No, only short-sighted managers and programmers are a danger to local public radio.

For Public Stations, Satellite Programming May Signal Trouble Ahead (washingtonpost.com)