A sustainable audio content and programme distribution platform open and accessible to UK Community Radio broadcasters.
The RadioExchange v1 due for beta release in early Summer 2020 is a modular online toolkit comprising a browser-based Content Management System into which ‘third sector’ radio stations and audio producers publish pre-produced ‘on-demand’ radio as well as a ‘live’ output / podcast ingest portal. It will enable them to host their work on a suitable scaleable content distribution network via online aggregation services as well as ‘smart speakers’ and connected cars subject to licencing, and rights permissions. It will also allow users to showcase and syndicate their radio shows and features to other stations.
Subject to further funding and in a subsequent v2 ‘software as a service’, enhancements will include:
RadioExchange v1 will be free to use for an initial core group of Community Radio Services and producers. The proposed v2 will be accessible to all Community Media Association members and Ofcom licenced Community Radio services with a nominal annual membership fee. As well as surfacing their own catalogue, this membership will allow subscriber stations unlimited access to ‘free’ radio shows syndicated from other members. Paid for syndication will incur a small deduction before royalty payment to contribute to the project’s running costs. A free trial tier with limited storage and display options should also be available. This approach is in many respects similar to the non-profit PRX (Public Radio Exchange) platform (www.prx.org), which has been operating in the USA for several years. The PRX model is not directly transferable to the UK, but is intended that the project will involve a degree of knowledge exchange between our project and PRX.
Platform B is a not-for-profit Brighton based youth-led radio station broadcasting online since 2016 and on 105.5 FM and DAB since October 1st 2018. The station is directed by a new generation of DJs, producers and presenters who are re-imagining and diversifying the medium with music and youth programming from a studio based in the Green Door Store, a music venue underneath Brighton station. Broadcasts flow from here as well as from multiple venues, public spaces and events across the city.