The future of newspapers

Photo: Freephoto.com

With news left and right of newspapers folding, consolidating or going purely online, it's hard not to wonder what the future holds for newspapers.

As journalist by training, it is a medium I hold dear. I believe in the importance of its role not just in informing the public, but in keeping, to the extent that it can, our governments and other public institutions honest.

But I also have to admit that I have not had a newspaper subscription in years. I read the Sunday paper only intermittently. By and large, I get my news online, or on TV.

So in thinking about all that threatens newspapers, I have to admit that I'm part of the problem.

What then is the solution? Ten experts weigh in here.

Of the ideas presented, this one, from acclaimed newspaper designer Mario Garcia, struck me as the most interesting and exciting:

"If I am starting a newspaper from scratch, I may consider doing a robust Sunday edition, then creating the ultimate online newspaper for daily. I may even consider a very short, one-section, printed daily edition, but acting more like a companion to the online than a self-standing newspaper. I would print it in an A4 compact format, and I would make a sort of navigational tool to [information] that readers must know that day."

I heard Garcia speak in person while attending the Newhouse School at Syracuse University. Even then, his newspaper designs seemed fresh and innovative to me.

Now if only there was a newspaper around that would be brave enough to take his suggested route. I think it would make for an interesting experiment.

Staying sharp

I was just telling someone at lunch today about how I have to keep my writing skills sharp. It has become more of a challenge now that I don't have a regular writing/editing gig.

Then I found this quiz at Chuvaness' blog, on some of the most misspelled English words out there. Taking my time, I still came away with a less than perfect score (22). Try it, and let me know how you do.

While we're at it, here are some of the most mispronounced words. Many are obvious, but we can all pick up a tip or two.

A WINK and a Smile

I write all the time. I get paid for it some times.

My most recent writing project was a feature for Big Builder Magazine on an emerging demographic of home buyers: women with income and no kids or WINKs. Read it here.

Thanks for the opportunity, Sarah!