On June 21, 2009, Chris Anderson "twitted" about an article in the Columbia Journalism Review by David Simon "Build the Wall. Most readers won’t pay for news, but if we move quickly, maybe enough of them will. One man’s bold blueprint."
What a fabulous article. David Simon is as passionate as I am about the need for leaders in the media industry to realize that it is not too late. Chris Anderson's tweet suggests he disagrees when he says "Suicide?" My comment (below) sums up what I think.
Fabulous analysis. Have one suggestion.
The analysis is fabulous because David Simon reports on the behind the scenes transformation in business management drivers in media and other markets (e.g. detroit). Like the writer, I've experienced the days when product development and sales were the drivers for managing business. Today financial performance is the driver. When the latter dominates the former, the result is mediocrity and tricky business models to derive revenues. It is time to invest in producing a product everyone is proud to make, sell, and buy.
Also, Simon's credibility is high due to his participation in the premium cable market. Subscription levels and profits are at all time highs in 4th qtr 2008, even during the peak of an economic crisis. This is a clear message from consumers which all media should listen carefully to. Do not underestimate what consumers will pay for quality.
My suggestion. A 5 page article allows the author to truly analyze the problem, doesn't it? This is a competitive advantage. Free news TV and talk radio don't have the time to cover news so comprehensively. Bloggers don't have the resources for comprehensive research and analysis. Consider how comprehensive coverage - among other features enabling real time interactivity from anywhere and quality control - would transform audience interactivity from chaotic to rewarding conversations. Such satisfying conversations and the potential collateral benefits (chance to connect with like-minded people) would sustain a premium subscription base.
