For News Creators
As the independent creator/producer of news becomes a more prominent part of South Korea's media landscape, there are fewer barriers to entry into the business. Many new entrants to this market start by developing a narrow focus or concept based on an idea they believe in.
Through consistent creation and distribution of quality content and developing a strong editorial presence, they establish themselves as credible sources of information. Beyond simply establishing credibility, however, successful creators need to plan for their future success and develop structures to sustain their ability to produce high-quality content over time.
The following approaches form the basis of sustainable growth strategies for creators who do not have significant financial resources:
- A clear editorial strategy provides an opportunity for creators to identify their target audience and remain focused on producing consistent content.
- Producing content on a consistent schedule builds audience expectation of when to expect new content, which ultimately leads to increased audience interaction and engagement.
- Utilizing simple analytic tools gives creators insight into which types of content resonate most strongly with their audience, thereby allowing them to make adjustments to their strategy.
- Creating a connection directly with their audience via a newsletter or other community-building mechanism creates a stronger relationship with their audience over time.
For News App Builders
Mobile apps have replaced websites or mobile sites as the most popular source of news for many South Koreans. In order to develop a successful app, however, it is about much more than simply displaying news stories on a screen. The development of a successful app requires careful planning for both the user's overall experience and how users will discover new content over time.
Below are examples of what developers can implement into the app in order to promote user engagement with the app as well as ensure users will continue to visit the app.
- Users can personalize their feed by selecting which sources (i.e., news organizations) they would like to see displayed. This makes the app more personalized to each individual user’s interests.
- Careful use of push alerts can provide timely updates to the user regarding developing events without providing too many notifications at one time.
- A simple-to-navigate interface with a clean design make it easier for users to find what they need within the app and therefore encourages them to revisit.
- Tools such as search functions and category-based organization enable users to locate specific types of content (e.g. sports, politics) more easily.
For Publishers
South Korean publishers who have established brands face unique challenges compared to those that do not. Established publishers may have greater numbers of readers and possibly more resources; however, they also must evolve with their readers' behavior and compete with other media companies. To be financially sustainable in today's digital world, established publishers must strike a balance between editorial excellence, growing their audience and finding ways to generate revenue.
To assist established publishers succeed in a digital format while still producing high-quality editorial products, the considerations listed below should be considered:
- Understanding readers through analysis of reader data enables publishers to better understand how readers consume content and adjust their editorial strategy accordingly.
- By optimizing for search engines, publishers increase their visibility and allow their content to reach a wider audience.
- Finding appropriate revenue streams to sustain their business model but not disrupt the reader experience is important for publishers to achieve financial stability.
- Maintaining consistent editorial standards enhances the credibility of publications and fosters continued trust from readers.
For Media Teams
Technology is changing the way media operates; however, it is still the reader's expectation of quality journalism that determines the success of media today.
There is now increasing evidence of artificial intelligence (AI) being used in media production. AI can help with many aspects of news production including summarizing content, analyzing data and suggesting stories. The application of AI in media production does require oversight to ensure accuracy and fairness.
One of the biggest issues facing the media today is trust. In order to develop trust with readers, they need to know that the information provided to them is credible. Credibility comes from open sourcing of information, transparency of editorial processes and a commitment to accuracy.
The media faces significant challenges regarding misinformation. Media organizations must be able to recognize false and misleading content, as well as provide clear and accurate information. To accomplish this goal, both the right tools and judgmental skills are required.
Mobile first reading is another area that media organizations should take into account when developing content. Today, many people consume news on their mobile phones, and therefore, mobile first reading shapes how content is formatted and presented. Mobile first reading means using shorter paragraphs, clearly defined headlines, and concise writing styles. All three techniques enhance readability.
The Future of Digital News
Digital news will continue to evolve based upon technological advancements, reader behavior and changing expectations. The emergence of new formats and platforms will be influenced by these factors. The primary principles of providing clear communications and accurate information will remain at the heart of what makes successful digital news.
Adaptability is likely to be the most critical characteristic for media organizations and individuals creating digital news to have. Organizations/individuals who adapt to change, while continuing to maintain a consistent level of quality will be best suited to achieve success.
Collaborative efforts may also become more prevalent. Collaborations between creators, developers and publishers could create new forms of collaboration and facilitate new solutions to common problems. The use of collaborative efforts is especially pertinent when addressing the development of technologies as well as engaging audiences.
It is likely that maintaining trust will continue to be a major concern for media organizations. With so much information being made available to readers, organizations that present their information accurately and professionally will continue to define successful digital news platforms.
Where Stronger Journalism Takes Shape
Beginning with the creation of better quality news, Build Better News explains how digital news can be made available. The focus on creating digital news that meets the requirements of both creator, and app builder/publisher/media team will provide those who create news, as well as those who deliver news via apps, or through publishing/distributing news, with an understanding of what works in today's fast changing digital world.
By being intentional with your planning, taking care when designing a platform for delivering news, and providing clarity in the information you present to users, you are able to develop news delivery platforms that meet the needs of your audience. With the ever-changing nature of the digital environment, the principles outlined above will continue to establish a solid base upon which to produce relevant, accessible, and trusted content.