I wrote an email to Rick, Terry, and Chris at WCYN a few moments ago. Here is a copy for your viewing pleasure:
Gentlemen,
On this morning’s edition of Coffeebreak, suggestions made for the open mic forum were to comment on CYN’s site and/or programming. I’m sorry that these topics weren’t addressed; however, the questions that were poised lead to interesting subject matter. In relation to what had been discussed this morning, I too am curious as to why the grounds and fencerow around the waste-water treatment plant aren’t going to be tended to. If you can, please let me know the reasoning behind this.
In regard to the propsed topics that weren’t addressed, I would like to offer criticism on the website. There are several pages that aren’t being used, or are not being used to their full potential. My suggestions follow:
In regard to the propsed topics that weren’t addressed, I would like to offer criticism on the website. There are several pages that aren’t being used, or are not being used to their full potential. My suggestions follow:
- The Staff page:
- While both on air and behind the scenes staff are listed, the page seems to be lacking.
- Short biographys of the staff would give an interesting and personal touch.
- mailto: anchors would be a nice addition to the e-mail addresses listed.
- Employment page
- The paragraph is centered instead of justified. Just an error I noticed.
- Photo Album
- The page is blank. Why not throw some photos up there? Possible pictures could be of the building, transmitters, staff, equipment, events, regular guests, etc.
- About Us
- WCYN has an interesting story. Why not share it?
- The station’s birth, past owners and programming.
- The station’s sale and “re-birth” or continuing tradition.
- This page could be used to link back to the staff page where mention of the current staff had worked throughout the history.
- Advertisers
- Only one advertiser is listed on this page…
- Wink Web Solutions
- I noticed that this page is not linked anywhere. I had to google it to find it.
- Link the page, and list it on the advertisers page if revenue from this would be desired.
- Cute biker animation…
I would like to offer a few other suggestions:
While the public is allowed to purchase copies of Coffeebreak on physical media (within five days of broadcast), there is no mention of the possibility to purchase a digital format. Why not offer this ability? Pure profit could be made from the sale of Coffeebreak mp3s. Also, if the archives of Coffebreak are made in physical media, meaning tape or CD, why not convert to recording in mp3? Archives could then be compressed and stored on a computer tucked away wither in the studio or an office, and archived for a longer period. This could lead to the release of “special edition” discs of Coffeebreak at a later date, such as a collection of the year’s broadcasts, or broadcasts that are related to an event.
If there is an interest in capturing more interest in the online media, why not offer an online “open-mic” forum for Coffeebreak? A simple forum (filtered, monitored, and properly formatted – as opposed to the Democrat’s sorry excuse of a forum) could be established where people could discuss community news, events, and so on. This forum could also become a springboard for discussion on the program, should ideas or topics become difficult to find. Another function of this forum would be to allow another way for the listening audience to communicate, comment, and ask questions to hosts or guests, since the allotted time for the show does not always allow enough time to address the issues.
Another interesting avenue to take would be that of blogging. More and more people are getting into keeping online journals of various topics. Why not have the on-air staff write snippets concerning their broadcast day and local news, media, and events. A Coffeebreak blog could also announce upcoming guests, and link to previous discussion. Blogging is an interesting tool that is growing in popularity. Even our school system is taking advantage of it (http://harrison.k12.ky.us/cblogs.htm).
I hope that these suggestions help, and may provide fertile fodder for the further growth and development of WCYN. Feel free to write back (or hire me!) for any other suggestions or ideas.
Sincerely,
Jeremiah Hall Palmer
Jeremiah,
I appreciate the time that you’ve taken to forward your thoughts and suggestions regarding WCYN and http://www.wcyn.com. While most of your ideas regarding the website have already be penciled in as “things to be done”, others will be considered as potential projects as we continue to grow as a station.
Please also note that our primary objective, with a massive full-time staff of 3, is our on-air product. The website is something that I’m slowly developing as an alternate means for communicating and interacting with our listeners. Unfortunately, time doesn’t allow for a great deal of “overnight” alterations and major site overhauls. I firmly believe in the crawl before you walk philosophy.
The site is revised and maintained by me… with no compensation. Hiring someone to host/revise the site is not an option at this time or in the foreseeable future.
Again, I appreciate your comments and your suggestions are always welcome… just remember, we’re broadcasters… NOT web designers.
PS- Wink Web Solutions is just for laughs! Nothing more.
Chris Winkle
Owner/President/General Mgr.
WCYN Broadcasting, Inc.
I kinda figured that the Wink Web Solutions was a joke.
Oh, well. I’m glad to see that Chris is planning to develop the site more, and I hope that the station continues to prosper. I just wish that by some twist of fate that they could afford another position. But, I understand… a radio station is an expensive venture.
In the email I made reference to The Cynthiana Democrat’s online forum. It is in sad shape. Just click the link to see.