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If I Had My Way |
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Sunday, April 5, 2009 previous post <> Saving the Newspapers... Outlining a process for saving the newspapers is really a simple task. The Blogosphere contains all the pieces, in one form or another -- all one needs do is organize some of the pieces and present the results, which should become the starting point for some serious discussion. First, my apologies -- I would like to give proper credit where due; however, because this has been a very long term process and tracing all sources would be impossible -- here is my personal humble opinion: 1) The newspaper (or other media organization) must develop a digital edition, capable of being downloaded or distributed on disc. This would be similar to present on-line editions except that all supporting files would be included. The newspaper would also distribute copies of my Personal Digital Multimedia ScrapBook (as modified for each organization). The PDMSB database system would contain the necessary subscription and associated procedures. In short, the reader should be able to retrieve a trial version of the software as well as a current edition of the newspaper prior to subscribing. 2) The newspaper (or an association of newspapers) must develop a publishing protocol together with some kind of archival system. The archival system should make available for downloading, a listing of all published materials in reverse sequence. The data base would include the necessary download routine, of course. I would visualize that a blogger could operate independently or cooperatively, as presently, or through a newspaper, maintaining a web site if desired. The only change would be the need to consciously publish those pages they want included in the archival system. 3) To further enhance the user experience, the newspaper should establish an off-line seminar system to supplement important portions of the digital publication. I am talking about a measured, managed, discussion forum and I call it a seminar to emphasize the educational properties in addition to the implied social properties. Could it work?? Of course, if enough people want it to work, by definition. The critical question is the one that Doc Searls is working on (as I see it). Can we really develop a system that works "for the people". I believe that we can -- I want to believe that we will. Obviously, there is a lot of work to do -- I know that the wisdom exists -- IF -- if we can keep an eye on that, "for the people". And, of course, a willing newspaper would be helpful. Doug Skoglund skoglund@pdmsb.com
Off-line discussion seminars http://nationalcomputerassociation.com
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