RTV Theory and Practice - Special Issue

was difficulty realizing the initial intentions of weekly television programs as well as daily radio programming; this feuleđ already existing conf licts between groups of volunteers . ln contrast, the stations in Gouda and Weert followeđ a step-by-step, planned development. These stations placeđ emphasis on continuity in programming and strived for long-term rather than immediate results . Here , problems were minimal during the initial phase of development. From the above can be concluded that the nature of the initiators is of substantial importance for the course of the introduction process of local radio and television stations . This aspect merits consideration next to factors such as initial đecisions regarding goals, organizational structure , anđ long-term planning of the station . It does not appear that stations spontaneously emerging from action groups and socially motivated organizations have as much chance to survive in the long run. Rather , stations developing from individual initiatives , which are carefully planned and make use of residents with a degree of status within the community seem better eguipped for overcoming the problems in the initial phase of development. ORGANIZATIONAL STRUCTURE The manner in which stations are organized arounđ the country dif f ers little . This is not surprising given the governmental reguirement that stations be culturally representative for their regions of activity . This reguirement demands that stations establish a policy-oriented body within the orgamzational structure which is a reflection of cuitural composition of the locality . Formation of this body was the cause of political struggle in many cities and of delay in formal recognition of stations . The affinity of members of this policy bođy to station activities was often minimal and based on no more than formal ties . Also problematic was the absence of knowledge and mterest m station activities by members of this pollcy unit . INTERNAL ACTORS An Important actor in the process of introducmg local radio and television is the group of station volunteers . Мапу problems occurred between members of station governmg boards and volunteers involved m programmmg activities . This situation can partially be attnbuteđ to the differences m social background between the two groups . In Helmond so.me 80'/ of the volunteers were onginally from the town, were

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