Internet radio programs are like traditional radio programs, broadcasting conversational audio or music, only over the web instead of traditional airwaves. One of the biggest differences between Internet radio shows and podcasts is this ability to broadcast live audio. Internet radio audio streaming is called “webcasting” to further differentiate it from traditional radio with etymology.
This technology is even further separate from podcasting and closer to traditional radio in the sense that the listener has no control over when or how the audio hears because it is broadcast continuously, just like traditional radio. Listeners engage with online radio shows by typing or pasting the appropriate web address to summon the media player and you are connected to your live show the moment you go online.
Time commitment and accessibility
Podcasts are downloadable audio files, a more “on demand” experience that you have more control over as a listener. In an ideal world, your favorite internet radio shows will also take advantage of this technology and provide loyal listeners with the archived recording so that they too can download it and listen to it later or listen to it repeatedly if they wish. Most webcasting platforms do not offer this technology for free, so you will find that many radio shows are one and ready. No recording will be saved on the Internet or on your computer. Internet presenters must record their own shows to offer this feature.
The latter concept is a huge plus for podcast listeners, however podcast shows are less predictable, making content available when they want it, which is often less frequent than their audience would like. listeners. Internet radio shows have a fixed schedule that they commit to and are usually broadcast over the Internet for the same amount of time as well.
From the content creator’s perspective
From the perspective of the creator of a show, both parties have benefits. Depending on the level of time you are willing to put in, the last two concepts will be a major deciding factor. If your motivations are tied to companies beyond your desire to share content, they may want to consider the size of the network that is projected with each one. Webcasting through an Internet radio program will allow you to capture many listeners at once. If this is important to you, or if you are selling or planning to sell advertising segments within the show, Internet radio is the way to go. Podcasts only reach one person at a time because they require a download, and this is not ideal for selling ad segments.
Understand the motivation of a listener
As a web host, you will need to understand your audience’s motivation behind hearing your show. With an Internet radio station, you usually need to please the entire audience. Is your concept a crowd pleaser? Podcasting can be a bit more specific, or niche, because the listener is often looking for you or a certain topic. Both are points to consider when formulating your entire brand and describing the “episodes.”