I have never really been a “Print vs. Online” culture warrior.
While I’m a believer of the online format and the future of it, I’ve tried to avoid the snobbery that engulfs some bloggers. And yes – some bloggers are very snobby towards members of the traditional media.
However, one of the bigger secrets is the fact that old media types are bigger snobs towards bloggers and online entrepreneurs who are attempting to make a business work.
A few things about this:
• A couple of members of the Kansas City press have criticized the blog format I use for The Kansan’s Website. They have said it looks “amateurish.” In reality, it’s an easier way for a reader to check out news and it makes a reader more likely to read stories. Heck, some readers are like that too.
• To this day, columnists at various newspapers across the state hate bloggers for whatever reason. Hate them. Ask Kansas City’s own Tony Botello about that. They consider operating a blog the worst thing in the world.
It’s interesting how snobby traditional media types are, especially considering that the biggest source of news for those 18-29 years old is the Internet.
For those in the 30-49 demographic, the Internet is second only behind television.
While it’s second, the Internet has more readers combined on average than newspapers and radio – combined!
You also see more traditional media types attempting to become members of the new media, mostly out of necessity.
The greatest example when it comes to sports is how The Kansas City Star is starting to cover the minor leagues for the Kansas City Royals now.
The biggest single reason why the minor leagues are being covered more by The Star and other outlets is Greg Schaum, who blogs about the minor leagues at RoyalsProspects.com. You won’t get an admission of his, but Schaum’s work is the primary reason why Royals fans know about the minor leagues.
Now, I don’t blame The Star for covering the Royals’ minor leagues now. The major league team stinks and the minor leaguers are legitimately exciting to watch.
But Schaum definitely had an impact on that.
I left newspapers behind forever in January 2009. I will never work for another newspaper. Period.
I wouldn’t mind consulting with newspapers and trying to help them survive. However, I’m done with newspapers.
I don’t see too many types like myself ever going back to newspapers.
Consider this Wall Street Journal piece about the future of media this year. The opening sentence is enough:
An onslaught of digital technologies has laid waste to traditional media. The new year will bring a clearer picture of what will emerge from the rubble.
The New Media won.
Game over.
