If you’d like to submit an article for consideration, here are some basic guidelines to help smooth the process.

First, you can just send the article text and graphics to: bdick@primediabusiness.com. In the subject line place, “Article submission”. We’ll try to get back to you within a week.

Second, you can call the editor, Brad Dick, (913-967-1737 or via email (preferred) bdick@primediabusiness.com and pitch the idea to him. Talking to the editor before you start is the better way and here’s why.

Article topics in Broadcast Engineering take two basic forms; those scheduled on Editorial Calendar and others. Priority will be given to article ideas that meet the topics scheduled on the Editorial Calendar. A copy of the Calendar is available on this website. Structure your article around a needed topic and you’re half way to becoming a published author.

Optional articles are published on a space-available basis. That’s why it’s best to tailor your submission to a topic already scheduled. And, its important to talk to the editor before you start writing a feature article. Otherwise, you may spend a lot of time preparing a piece that’s already filled.

Most monthly column topics have full-time writers. Be sure you call before you decide to puruse one of these topics. It may already be filled by regular Broadcast Engineering writers. Current open columns include: Business Models and Technolog and Production Clips.

Unlike other publications, Broadcast Engineering does not allow the promotion of companies or products in feature-length articles. If you’re a vendor or manufacturer, your fluff pitch will not appear in Broadcast Engineering. Take it elsewhere. Broadcast Engineering readers expect to learn something from the articles published here, not be sold something. That’s why readers rate us at the top of their “Must read” list.

However, there are three editorial vehicles that do allow the discussion (but not the promotion of) companies and products; Applied Technology, Field Reports and New Products.

Applied Technology articles are mini-white papers. The goals is to explain to readers new technology. They are typically written by the technical staff at a manufacturer. They describe the need/problem and then the specific technical solution the company has created or invented and how it works. Again, this must be a technical presentation not a sales piece. Applied Technology articles run about 1000 words. One photo or graphic must accompany the article.

Field Reports are similar to the Applied Technology articles except the writer is a user of the product. These writers are typically the engineer, producer or operator of the device to be discussed. The writer must describe the facility’s need (why they needed the solution), the product or technology selected and then how it works for them. Length is about 1000 words and a small fee is paid to the writer. One photo or graphic must accompany the article. The best type of photo is a facility shot showing the product in use. No “Hi mom” photos.

Applied Technology and Field Report articles run on a first-in, first-out, space available basis. Because they are not scheduled on the editorial calendar, it’s usually not possible to guarantee a publication date. Typical turnaround time is three months.

All article submissions should be to; bdick@primediabusiness.com In the subject line, place “Article submission”. Otherwise, your article may be lost in the mountain of email the magazine receives daily.

New Products are carried each month. They are typically supplied by manufacturers and vendors. Required materials for consideration include a press release will full contact information. Photos are encouraged; minimum of 300dpi 2-in by 2-in jpg. Prints or slides are acceptable. Materials for New Products must be received 60 days prior to month of publication.

New products should be directed to the New Products editor; Chevonn Payton, cpayton@primediabusiness.com. Questions about new products can be directed to Ms. Payton at 913-967-1739. Special issues of March, April and June have unique requirements. Call for information.

Review a recent issue of Broadcast Engineering for examples of each of these types of articles.

It’s not hard to get your article published in Broadcast Engineering. Just discuss your idea with the editor, follow these guidelines and meet the deadlines given. Then, you too can be “a published author." Good luck!