Here is a fun exercise. Go to the ABC Radio Network's home page at www.abcradio.com and click on the link for 24-Hour Formats under Music and Sports. The exact address is http://www.abcradio.com/index.cfm?bay=content.view&catid=72&cpid=100. Put yourself in this situation. You have gotten a license for a new radio station and have decided to use an automated format to save money. Which of the ABC Radio formats would you select for your town and why? Do you have any research to back up your choice? Also, check out your format's web site right under the format description.

For more information on Arbitron and how they conduct audience ratings go to www.arbitron.com, and select Radio Stations. Take a look at the information including the latest on the "people meter," a new way to collect ratings data.