Optaros Inc., an assembler of Next Generation Internet (NGI) applications, today announced it assembled the online community Vocalo for Chicago Public Radio (CPR). The Vocalo (http://www.vocalo.org) site innovatively integrates the radio and Web, assembled from Web 2.0 services and open source components to accommodate frequent changes resulting from feedback received from the listeners and Website community members.

Vocalo is a social networking, community building Web site that reaches all population segments, attracting them to both CPR and the Internet. Optaros used open source components to assemble a flexible infrastructure that responds to increasing user needs. CPR chose Optaros because of its Next Generation Internet expertise, deep open source experience and the Optaros Assembly Methodology (OptAM), which assembles solutions faster and more flexibly than traditional build, buy or rent options.

“Optaros was integral to the overall strategy behind Vocalo by providing the feedback necessary to organically build a brand and audience in a more dynamic way, rather than just a depository for the daily radio show,” said Daniel Ash, vice president, strategic communications for Chicago Public Radio. “Optaros’ Integrated Assembly Environment (IAE) allowed us to fulfill our vision by assembling a flexible solution that accommodates frequent changes and enhancements to the site.”

Optaros provided strategic guidance to enable CPR to broadcast via the Internet, transforming Chicago listeners into users. The Vocalo site does what the Internet does best – allowing users to seek information they need, interact, give opinions and make their mark as individuals by uploading video, audio pictures and text. Optaros assembled Vocalo using numerous components including the Drupal content management system and the Optaros Integrated Assembly Environment (IAE).

“Vocalo is a great example of Optaros’ Assembly Methodlogy (OptAM) that jointly optimizes the user experience and the technical solution,” said Marc Osofsky, vice president of marketing at Optaros. “We worked with Chicago Public Radio to ensure that Vocalo would be a compelling community at the start and flexible to change overtime.”

About Chicago Public Radio
Chicago Public Radio is a community-supported, non-commercial public service broadcasting institution, broadcasting throughout Chicago and surrounding regions. From news and public affairs to arts and culture, the station’s eclectic and distinctive selection of internationally, nationally and locally produced programs reflects the diversity of the community it serves. Chicago Public Radio programming is available at WBEZ 91.5 FM Chicago, WBEQ 90.7 FM Morris, W217BM Elgin and chicagopublicradio.org. Vocalo is available at WBEW 89.5 FM Chesterton and Vocalo.org.