Local media must adapt and evolve amid rapid changes in the media landscape

Local Media Community 2024 Roadshow Class was held on Thursday 14 November 20024 at Aston Inn, Tasikmalaya, West Java, with the support of Bank Rakyat Indonesia (BRI). This event is an important moment for local media to adapt and develop in the midst of rapid changes in the media landscape.

Suara.com's Editor-in-Chief, Suwarjono, highlighted the importance of aggressive innovation in local media to deal with the rapidly changing media landscape.

"The media landscape is very different now. New platforms are emerging, digital audiences are becoming more critical, and social media is becoming a mainstay. Technology, algorithms, and platform interfaces are the key to dominance in this era," said Suwarjono.

Suwarjono emphasized the importance of diversifying sources of income to maintain the competitiveness of local media.

"Local media must be able to create various sources of revenue such as programmatic advertising, direct advertising, live streaming, content production, and paid subscriptions. We also encourage creative revenue models such as crowdfunding, event sponsorship, and community training," he added.

Digital Mama's Editor-in-Chief, Catur Ratna Wulandari, explained that the solidity of the team is key in local media management that is developing.

"A solid team is the key! Online media is not just chasing traffic; the main thing is to create quality information and maintain audience loyalty," said Catur.

According to him, community is an important asset for local media, but it does not immediately become a source of income.

"The key is to keep the community coming back, keep progressing without rushing, and don't be afraid to try even if you fail," he added.

Meanwhile, Suara.com's Head of Digital Revenue, Dimas Sagita, highlighted the importance of using artificial intelligence (AI) in the development of local media.

"AI enables the media to adapt faster to market changes and maintain relevance. AI can be used to create marketing materials, develop social media campaigns, and analyze data to find trends and deeper insights," explained Dimas.

According to him, technology such as AI opens up opportunities for local media to remain competitive, optimize operations, and respond to dynamic market needs more effectively.

"With AI, we can protect our products and business in the ever-changing digital landscape," he added.

Container of Innovation and Collaboration
Local Media Community 2024 is expected to be a container for local media and content creators to develop their capacity and innovation. Apart from Tasikmalaya, this event will also be held in Bogor and Purwokerto, opening wider collaboration opportunities for local media to be able to innovate according to the needs of the digital era.

Media Innovation Grant This year's Local Media Community event also introduced the Media Innovation Grant program to support local media in developing content innovations that have a big impact.

"We believe that local media has great potential to bring positive changes in society. With proper training and funding, they can grow faster, especially in cities like Bogor, Tasikmalaya, and Purwokerto," said Suwarjono.

With various training sessions and collaboration opportunities, the Local Media Community 2024 Roadshow Class is expected to encourage local media to continue to innovate and provide greater positive impact in society.