New models for news

Another great post from Jeff Jarvis of Buzzmachine. He outlines some thoughts on new business models for news. He suggests starting with the problem and seeking the solution. Sounds logical, yes, but he points out there is too much waiting around for a neat, tidy solution—an “iPod moment.”

He expounds on some solutions: collaboration, networked content, networked advertising, innovation. But his best idea comes from “efficiency.” His thoughts mesh with mine (and many other who have proposed these ideas before). Get rid of newspapers’ fat. Leverage the individual strengths of the Web and print.

My thought—strip down newspapers to the content with the most impact. Focus on enterprise. On news people need to know:

• What their governments are doing that affects them. Does every single movement from a governmental body affect the general population? If so, then show people how it does. Explain.
  
• What their governments are not doing that affects them. Point out where citizens are being failed. Uncover the reasons why. It likely isn’t malfeasance or anything malicious. Local problems probably stem from state problems, which could point to even bigger problems nationally.
  
• How to get involved. Show how people can become engaged citizens. Encourage them to find a voice. Start by listing meetings and time but expand by explaining exactly how they can raise issues at meetings, how they can speak out or advocate for a cause, who they can contact.
  
• How to build community. Celebrate all your community has to offer. This is the fun part of your newspaper. Calendars, event listings, photos, announcements, of any and all kinds. Smiling people. Put the intricate fabric of your community on display.
  
• Sports times ten. You can’t run enough. I am amazed the importance of local sports is still not seen. Sports drives passion, even at the local level.

You don't have to cover everything in print anymore. Establish priorities. Let reader contributions take off some of the burden.