The impact of information communication technologies in public service radio in Kenya: a case of Kenya broadcasting Corporation

Abstract

The evolution of radio broadcasting in recent years has been marked by three sets of parallel developments. The first is explosion of radio channel capacity and blurring of communication borders. Occasioned by use of new Information Communication Technologies. The second is disintegration of Public Service Broadcasting model with the move towards liberalization and democratization of electronic media. The third development concerns the upsurge in market driven broadcasting evidenced by introduction of private media investments in the place of public service monopolies. The research concerned the centrality of Information Communication Technologies and their impact on the way Public Service radio in Kenya is fulfilling its man This study therefore developed an understanding of the impact of Information Communication Technologies on the way Public service radio in Kenya is fulfilling its mandate as compared to the inferior analog infrastructure from which it is struggling to migrate. The analysis of the information collected established the impact of ICT as that of enhancing access and storage of material and reducing losses arising from human error. ICT further had impact in improving customer service through efficiency and effectiveness in accomplishment of Public Service broadcasting functions, increasing creativity, innovativeness and interactivity as well as improving communication within the organization. In regard to challenges, the analysis showed that there is poor ICT infrastructure in the divisions under study, together with poor management, inadequate resources, poor policy framework and inadequate institutional capacity.