As the internet begins to overshadow things we used to consider important like newspapers or even TV, it should come as no surprise that people don't have the attention span to read an article or tune in to the news at a certain time of day.
We'd rather be simultaneously informed and entertained--whenever we please--with a few digital soundbytes.
CNN.com's new design reflects these new prioritites by making video clips more prominent, "bringing the site to life," according to international vice president of digital services Nick Wrenn. The site is much improved with regard to organization and its use of space. The nav bar is prominently emphasized in red, displaying the various news categories. Breaking news is listed just below on the left, flanked by a series of multi-media stories.
A new feature called "News Pulse" filters through the site to list that day's most popular news stories, allowing readers (or viewers?) to define their taste according to what the masses have decided is most interesting.
It is a step up for the news channel's online presence, but the emphasis on entertainment is somewhat disconcerting given the fact that news gathering is not traditionally on par with watching interactive film reviews or accounts of the latest trends in Vegas.
It would seem that the New York Times and CNN are now in competition for the same audience: relentless surfers, the ever-curious, millenials eager to customize their access to information at the click of a mouse.
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I like your point when you compare the NY Times surfing audience with CNN's. I definitely agree that because of this new design a lot more people could start looking at CNN for quick and interesting tidbits, especially now that they could get them in video form. Also, I was disturbed by the change in the amount of entertainment content as well. I think they took two steps forward with this design and one back with the content change...but I know a lot of people love that entertainment news stuff, so who knows? it will probably help them.
ReplyDeleteTotally agree with the digital change --
ReplyDeleteI think the digital aspect helps all websites, especially news websites -- look at youtube, and every other digital place where there are tons of video feed, it usually attracts much more traffic and interest.
The "news pulse" is also a fantastic point, that I overlooked. The notion of giving the viewers top news, gives the site more character I think.
I agree that it is sad that CNN is putting more emphasis on entertainment, but I think they'll need it to stay in competition.
ReplyDeleteMaybe when everyone shifts over to a more entertainment-based format, a new niche for only serious (non-video) news will open back up.. Unlikely, but (since we're in New York), hey, you never know.
Great points on the organization of information. The design is solid, but I wonder if the content has really changed much. I'm also a little worried about the more subtle incorporation of ads and entertainment, but CNN's always had a knack for covering Britney and Paris before substantive issues (with the exception of Christiane Amanpour, who is awesome).
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