The ability and power of the Internet to instantly reach millions of citizens is extremely invaluable. In the 2007-2008 presidential campaign season, delegates harnessed the power of the Internet like never before to promote their campaigns, their ideals, and missions. Delegates used broadband media to stream videos of speeches at town meetings, handshaking engagements, et al, showcasing their movements throughout the country, and allowing voters never before inside-access of how the political campaign machinery worked, firsthand. Though the delegates may argue that their sites and displays were a part of their efforts to educate voters, these media blitzkriegs were truthfully large advertisements for their campaign with education taking a bit of a backseat. By observing the far-reaching ability of this medium however, it is easy to postulate how the technology could be used by valuable non-profit organizations as an important tool to educate millions about their causes, broadcast info on their efforts, and gather donations for necessary financial support.
Non-profits can exploit this new and exciting technology by using their websites to stream videos about emerging developments in their particular area of interest. A large non-profit such as the Red Cross could use the ability to broadcast live video feeds from areas affected by natural disasters such as earthquakes, fires, or floods, in efforts to appeal to supporters and volunteers to lend assistance. No longer would viewers be limited to watching the local news channel for updates at news broadcast times of 6 or 11, for example, but would be able to visit an advertised, unbiased website for up-to-the-minute information, pictures, and videos, detailing the plight of citizens that are currently in danger. All-important details such as alternate routes to bypass dangerous terrain or ways to get involved in rescue attempts and disaster relief could be broadcast instantaneously and without delay from the scene.
The Internet is emerging as an immeasurably valuable tool in reaching out to the populous and has been harnessed by network news, favorite television variety and reality shows. Often painted and colored as purveying unreliable and unsubstantiated information, the true power of the Internet to aid, help, and educate is undeniable and exciting. The possibilities and applications are endless and as broadcast media solution innovators such as Whiteblox continue to research and develop new and exciting ways in which these technologies can be used, efforts of non-profits like the Red Cross can be augmented and extended in ways never before imagined.
Author Info:
About the Author: Gregory Demetriades is Chief Executive Officer of Whiteblox, a leading provider of integrated broadband video solutions.
