The process to establish a new Radio Audience Survey for Broadcasters in South Africa, is gaining momentum. With the current Rams contract (under the auspices of Saarf) coming to an end in December, the National Association of Broadcasters are in the process of issuing a new tender. A Request for Information (RFI) will be sent out during the first half of 2014, followed by an initial screening of research companies that submit information motivating their proficiency and suitability. Successful companies who score adequately in the RFI will be short listed and invited to submit a detailed Request for Proposals (RFP).
The NAB has engaged the services of tender specialist Yardstick to manage the Invitation to Tender (ITT) process and international expert Roger Gane, to provide technical input on the development and design of a new Radio Audience Research Survey. This will ensure that a robust, reputable, representative and independent Radio Audience Survey is in place for 2015.
Radio research will be commissioned through a new structure when the current radio contract ends and the NAB exits Saarf at the end of 2014. With increased fragmentation in the radio sector and rapid advances in new technology, it is vital that the NAB remain abreast of global trends and that data is credible and trusted by stakeholders.
This process will not only ensure the independence of the tender, but will develop specifications to international standards. The NAB said it is “committed to ensuring a fair and transparent tender process and to this end, key stakeholders, including marketers and media agencies, will be consulted for the duration of the process. This will safeguard the interests of key stakeholders and provide a robust and representative outcome. The NAB is indebted to research entities and to other stakeholders for their continued interest in this process”.
