The Metropolitan Transportation Commission (MTC), the MPO for the San Francisco Bay Area, has chosen to audiocast all standing committee and full commission meetings. The audiocast subscriber also has the option of downloading a separate file that contains the meeting’s agenda and a PowerPoint presentation to go along with the audiocast.
Why are they useful?
For members of the public who cannot or choose not to attend public meetings, this provides a convenient way to observe the meetings at one’s leisure. For traffic advisories or updates on specific projects, members of the public who choose to subscribe can automatically receive these updates.
MTC has found that keeping a digital record of the meetings has been beneficial not only for the public but for the agency, as the digital files are easy to access and review when necessary. Also, the digital files are easy to edit and send out to conventional media outlets.
Audiocasts have very wide applications and can be used to disseminate recordings of meetings and updates for the public regarding virtually any transportation related project.
Who participates, and how?
Typically, the transportation agency will include an e-mail link on each of the audiocasting Web pages so that the listening public can easily respond.
Who leads?
Generally the Information Technology Department of the transportation agency will lead the audiocasting program. Additional content could be created by the Communications Department.
What are the costs?
Costs are minimal. The costs include a fee to the Web host, staff time for uploading and managing the audiocasts, and audio recording equipment.
What are the challenges?
Audiocasting is not inherently interactive. It often reflects a unidirectional flow of information. Also, the hearing impaired are unable to participate.
