Hi,
I'd really appreciate some feedback and opinions on a couple of questions on the importance (or not!) to advertising sales of knowing accurately the coverage of your radio stations:
Question 1 - How important is it to accurately know the coverage extent of your station?
When communicating coverage to potential advertisers we always advise to "Under-promise and over-deliver". We think it is important to anticipate/avoid areas with weak coverage, plus potentially target areas where your signal reaches further than expected. We also think that the conventional contour maps (like those calculated by FCC) are not detailed enough to make good judgments. We think something like this is more useful. Do you agree? Why?
Question 2 - If you think accurate coverage maps are important, what format is best?
For years we've been producing maps for stations in Adobe pdf format or image files targeting printed material or flat internet pages. However we've now developed a more interactive format (examples here and here) to display on Google Maps or Google Earth with all the usual zoom, pan and Streetview features. Flat file or Interactive Google - which is best, why?
Thanks for your time,
Glyn
Keep in mind, the FCC maps were designed for radios 40+ years ago. Technology has changed. Your 60db in most cases goes further. Car radios are much better. Travel within your signal, and adjust your coverage map. Even a different map will not guarantee the coverage posted. You should do your own research, and determine your signal.
True Damon - radios have improved massively since the levels were derived. We find that 50 is a good level of coverage, and 40 or even lower is good enough for most car radios. 60-70 is only really needed for poor radio sets like those in mobile phones, or those inside far away from windows.
Two problems with measuring the coverage on the ground -
a) For a large coverage area it will take ages and cost a fortune in gas!
b) You don't have anything to show to advertisers - a multi-colour coverage map is a useful visual tool to help convince people don't you think?
Bump.
I'd be interested in peoples' opinions if you have time....
