Colleen Wilson

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2007/08/17/AR2007081701717_pf.html

I thought this article was an interesting perspective to the shift in journalism from print to online. I had always thought of the move to the internet as one driven by reader preference and changing technology. However, after reading this article, I realize my ignorance in that simplistic view.

The journalism industry, just like every other industry, has the ultimate goal of turning a profit. Another point that Achenbach made was about the journalist’s hunger for clicks on their stories, some sort of recognition for the hard work they’ve put in.

I’ve written for two papers and have no clue how many people have read my stories or how they reacted to them. I can see the appeal in being able to watch the ticker online to track every reader and gauge reaction to your work.