ICT Update on podcasting: A new way to reach rural communities

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Podcasting has been around since 2004 but it is still very much at the experimental stage when it comes to applying it to development efforts. In a weekly iConnect update (see http://www.iconnect-online.org/News/ICTUpdateJuly2007 for the story), some early initiatives from organizations currently testing the technology are highlighted, and so far the reported results are all very positive. By using audio - speech and music - there is no need for expensive printing or distribution costs since the podcast can be downloaded from a single, central site on the web.

Having important information available that can be played, and even replayed, at any time means there is less chance of the message becoming confused or misinterpreted, making it ideal for agricultural extension work. Podcast updates can be automatically downloaded if the user subscribes to the podcasting service, giving them the most up-to-date information available. Previous podcasts can also be archived on the provider's website allowing users to download only the information they need, when they need it. Although a computer or media player, an mp3 player or an iPod is needed to listen to a podcast, the prices of these devices are falling sharply while their storage memories, ease of use and battery life are all rapidly improving.