The study of selected station websites provides a first look at the ways local stations are bringing news onto the Internet. While the extent of station efforts varies widely, many local radio and television news organizations have been quietly developing an Internet presence for several years. The study provides a benchmark for all local news organizations to consider as they evaluate their on-air and online news efforts. Radio is in a position to use the web in unique ways especially to develop niche audiences. More usability research needs to be done to assist web users.
More research needs to be done to understand the web audience.
Local Web News concludes that local Internet news operations are a work in progress as news directors, webmasters and senior management evaluate the benefits and pitfalls of producing news in this new medium. The foundation s work is supported by contributions from foundations, corporations and members of the Radio-Television News Directors Association.