Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
About The Company
What is Open-Source Radio Group (OSRG)?
Open-Source Radio Group is a radio consulting service focused on format strategy, music structure, and long-term sound design. OSRG helps stations create clear, consistent, and market-appropriate formats without unnecessary complexity or gimmicks.
Why is it called Open-Source Radio Group?
The name reflects a philosophy similar to open-source software. Instead of operating as a closed or “black box” consulting model, OSRG provides stations with transparent frameworks, documented logic, and practical building blocks that explain how a format works. Stations are given the tools to understand, manage, and evolve their sound independently, while retaining full control over execution and identity.
Who runs Open-Source Radio Group?
Open-Source Radio Group is run entirely by Justin Walters. All consulting, strategy, and format development is handled directly, ensuring consistency, accountability, and a single creative vision across every project.
Is OSRG a large consulting firm?
No. OSRG is intentionally small and hands-on. 1There are no layers of account managers or junior consultants—stations work directly with the person designing and guiding their format.
Is OSRG still able to support multiple stations at once?
Yes. However, OSRG may limit the number of active clients at any given time to ensure every station receives focused attention and timely support.
Who Is This For?
What types of stations does OSRG work with?
OSRG works with:
- Commercial radio stations
- Non-commercial and community stations
- LPFM stations
- Independent operators
- Internet and streaming-first stations
Is OSRG only for large or rated markets?
No. OSRG works with stations in markets of all sizes, including small, unrated, and underserved markets.
Is OSRG a good fit for first-time station operators?
Yes. Tier 1 is specifically designed to provide a clear, professional foundation for stations that may not have a full-time programmer on staff.
Consulting Tiers
What is the difference between Tier 1 and Tier 2?
Tier 1 provides a structured, low-maintenance format using established OSRG systems. Tier 2 builds on that foundation with deeper refinement, competitive analysis, and ongoing optimization.
Is Tier 1 mostly automated?
Tier 1 is intentionally system-driven and designed to be simple, stable, and easy to manage. It prioritizes structure and consistency over deep customization or frequent hands-on changes.
What makes Tier 3 different from the other tiers?
Tier 3 involves full format creation or rebuilding, including custom music rules, playlist architecture, branding, and launch or relaunch strategy.
Upgrades, Downgrades & Transitions
Can a station upgrade to a higher tier later?
Yes. Stations may upgrade from Tier 1 to Tier 2 or Tier 3 at any time when additional refinement or customization is needed.
Can a station move from Tier 3 to a lower tier later on?
Yes. Once a Tier 3 format build or rebuild is complete and the station is stable on the air, stations may transition to Tier 2 or Tier 1 for ongoing maintenance and lighter involvement. Tier 3 is designed for creation and transformation, while Tier 2 and Tier 1 are designed for refinement and maintenance.
Can a station downgrade immediately after starting Tier 3?
No. Tier 3 includes a minimum term to allow proper development and stabilization before transitioning to another tier.
Custom Formats
What is a Custom Format?
A Custom Format is built specifically for one station or ownership group, tailored to that market’s audience, goals, and competitive environment.
Why are Custom Formats only available in Tier 3?
Custom Formats require full design, testing through real-world use, and ongoing refinement—work that goes beyond basic or advanced consulting.
Are Custom Formats exclusive?
Yes. Custom Formats are not reused, syndicated, or resold to other stations.
Music, Programming & Research
Do you provide customized music testing or callout research?
No. OSRG does not conduct custom music testing, callout, or auditorium research. Consulting is based on format strategy, market realities, industry best practices, and professional programming judgment.
Can OSRG work alongside a research company?
Yes. Stations that use outside research providers can still work with OSRG to interpret results and align strategy, but OSRG does not manage or conduct research.
Do you provide automated playlists?
OSRG provides structured music systems and playlist architecture, not generic or one-size-fits-all automation.
Do you just send song lists?
No. OSRG focuses on frameworks, logic, and guidance designed to be implemented and managed by the station.
Do you control day-to-day programming decisions?
No. Final programming decisions always remain with the station.
Pricing & Terms
How is pricing determined?
Pricing is based primarily on market size and consulting tier. All consulting is offered on a monthly basis.
Are there minimum terms?
Yes. Each tier has a minimum term to allow time for proper implementation and meaningful results.
Is there a long-term contract?
After the minimum term, consulting continues on a month-to-month basis.
Do you guarantee ratings or revenue results?
No. OSRG provides structure and strategy, not performance guarantees. Results depend on execution, consistency, and market conditions.
Fit & Expectations
Is OSRG a good fit if we want a quick fix or short-term patch?
OSRG is best suited for stations interested in sustainable improvement rather than one-off solutions.
Is OSRG a good fit if we want something simple and low-maintenance?
Yes. Tier 1 is designed specifically for stations that want a stable, professional format with minimal complexity.
What if our station is silent or preparing to relaunch?
OSRG can assist with relaunches and rebuilds, typically through Tier 2 or Tier 3 consulting.
How do we get started?
Contact OSRG to discuss your station, market, and goals. The appropriate consulting tier will be recommended based on your needs.