The Land Alive - Tourist Audio Tour Tape

Background Context

Living in Kenora Ontario, I became concerned that travelers from both directions passing through town complained about the deadly boring trip through either bush or prairies. For me the land was alive with meaning and I resolved to put together a tour tape for tourists to pay as they went through the area, making it more meaningful for them. I also hoped to put a human face on the geography as they traveled.

Approach Used

One of the first projects of my new audiovisual production company was the audio tape production "The Land Alive". To produce it:

• I researched the general parameters of the project dividing it down into Manitoba highway segments and day trip tours and points of interests.
• I contracted with a woman to research and write the basic components of the tour tape.
• I edited and modified the tape script in preparation for production
• I hired a reader and studio, did off line editing and had he production professionally mastered.
• I produced prototype copies of the tape cut in two directions (for East and West-bound travelers) and started to sell them>

Current Status

The tape is now out-dated (the "Forks "in Winnipeg was undeveloped at the time for example) though the historical background is recyclable.

It is no longer available for sale.

Findings To Date

• At the time we made the product book tapes were unheard of and there was high skepticism about its utility.
• Owing to shortage of funds for adequate marketing, sales were low, covering costs but not much more.
• There was a high customer satisfaction for the sales we did transact.
• It was a very good introduction to the Manitoba tourist trade and its potential.

Lateral Connections

Required for Completion

Finished.

If re-issued,

• script would have to be re-worked and updated
• proper funding for marketing and sales would have to be in place
• The cycles of marketing would best be placed in a proper marketing plan.