Producing Audio Information Products

An Audio Information Product is a way for you to launch a new Internet business or enhance your existing product line. Today's technology makes it simpler than ever.

Back in the 70’s, when I started in the recording business, making a good sounding recording required a large (and heavy) reel-to-reel tape recorder, and the ability to edit tape by cutting it with a razor blade and splicing it back together. It was a laborious process that required good motor skills and quite a bit of practice to master. Any sound processing or mixing in of music and effects required two or more tape recorders plus the associated mixing and processing equipment.

Computer based editing makes it all possible

With today’s technology, audio information products are easy to create. Almost all computers made in the last several years have audio recording and CD recording capabilities built in. Editing is done in the computer – if you make a mistake hit the undo button and try again. All that you really need to add are a good microphone, the appropriate editing software and of course your willingness and effort to learn professional recording techniques.

Why audio?

There are many opportunities to produce products these days from E-Books to DVD to Web Based Training, so why would you choose an audio information product?

There are several reasons. The first is because it’s a product that you can use while driving, jogging or walking, working out at the gym or other situations when a video or print product just won’t work. This is why so many self-help cassette products have been successful over the years and Audio Books are such a big seller today. Nightingale-Conant Corporation and others have built very successful businesses on these types of programs.

Added value to your existing products

Another reason for audio is for added value and rounding out of your product line. It’s easy to add an audio interview CD to an existing product package. This will increase its perceived value far beyond the cost of the duplication. A CD will increase the value of any book and can help turn an existing single product into a more profitable product package.

Of course there are places where an audio information product will work and places where another medium might work better. If you are producing a program on identifying 18th century teapots, that subject might be better served with a video or at least a book with pictures; but there are plenty of subjects where audio will work at least as a secondary product. Audio is just one more tool in your bag of tricks.

Today’s new technology makes audio production easy if you’re willing to invest a little time learning the process. But your production skills alone won’t sell product. Content is still king, and your ability to do research and organize your knowledge and adapt it to the needs and wants of your market is the biggest factor contributing to your success. Use your untapped expertise and that of others to make this part efficient and profitable.