The future of newspapers gets discussed by pundits both inside and outside the biz every day. That said, here’s a very good, long article on where print/digital news media are headed. First, unlike some breathless pundits, it does NOT say "the web is where it's at in the future." Second, it's honest about the present, and quite possibly ...future, money struggles of news start-ups. Third, it acknowledges that fragmentation is a problem that needs to be addressed. Fourt, it expects newspapers to continue to play an important new role, especially if they figure out how to monetize the Net and integrate it with print better.
if it’s already producing a civilian backlash.
At the same time, the piece isn’t perfect on analysis and it’s short of even that on prescriptions for the future, in some ways, as several responses make clear, including this one that thinks its too optimistic.
My suggestions, beyond those listed?
I’ve already mentioned paywalls for online content, more than once.
In addition, charging $1, if not now, as soon as the recession starts really lessening, for papers at 75 cents, is a no-brainer.
Integrating web and print subscriptions, with usernames and other social interactivity, to appeal to at least some younger readers.
Figure out how to do this without chasing away core older readers.
Accept lower profit margins and lower executive pay as part of the answer.
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