‘Where else is the money? A study of innovation in online business models at newspapers in Britain’s 66 cities’

Much like their counterparts in the United States and elsewhere, British newspaper publishers have seen a sharp decline in revenues from traditional sources—print advertising and copy sales—and many are intensifying efforts to generate new income by expanding their online offerings. A study of the largest circulation newspapers in the 66 cities in England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland showed that while only a small minority did not have companion websites, many of the publishers who do have an online presence have transferred familiar revenue models. It has also been recognised that income from these sources is not enough to sustain current operations and innovative publishers have diversified into additional broad categories of Web business models. Significantly, this study did not only compare the approaches of various news publishers with each other, but it also considered how active newspaper publishers were in taking advantage of the variety of business models generally being employed on the Web—and which opportunities were ignored

An economical do - it - yourself ground station for school pupils

Thesis (MScEng)--University of Stellenbosch, 2001.ENGLISH ABSTRACT: The aim of the thesis is the design of an economical do - it - yourself ground station for school pupils to communicate with SUNSAT 1. The ground station should also be more economical than a hand - held transceiver radio. The do - it - yourself requirement is there to arouse an interest in electronics, radio frequency electronics and satellite communications in school pupils. A system-level design was done for a ground station consisting of modules which may be bought individually as do - it - yourself kits to eventually produce a full set. The modules are a VHF receiver, a VHF transmitter, a UHF down converter and a modem. Each module has functions which aid in the process of communications (data as well as voice) between the satellite and the ground station. A VHF receiver was designed and implemented to be capable of receiving RF signals from SUNSAT 1. A crystal controlled oscillator was designed that oscillates with a frequency tolerance of less than or equal to ± 0.003 % when aligned without the necessary IlF equipment. An economical Broadband Signal Generator was implemented with a 74ACT14 logic IC, which may be used to align the receiver. The higher harmonics of a square wave with a fundamental frequency of 4 kHz are used as a RF source. A sound card was utilised as a modem to receive 1200 baud AFSK (AX.25 protocol) data and the software was also used to display the data on PC. The data was transmitted from another ground stationAFRIKAANSE OPSOMMING: Die doel van die tesis is die ontwerp van 'n ekonomiese doen - dit - self - grondstasie vir skoolkinders om met SUNSAT I te kan komunikeer. Die grondstasie moet ook meer ekonomies wees as 'n handstelradio. Die doel van die doen - dit - self - beginsel is om die belangstelling in elektronika, RF elektronika and satelliete by skoolkinders aan te moedig. 'n Stelsel ontwerp van 'n grondstasie is gedoen wat bestaan uit modules wat afsonderlik as doen - dit - self - modules aangeskaf kan word om so tot 'n totale grondstasie op te bou. Die modules is die "VHF" - ontvanger, "VHF" - sender, UHF - afmenger en 'n modem. Elke module verskaf funksies wat bydra om met SUNSAT I te kan kornmunikeer. 'n VHF - ontvanger wat in staat is om RF - seine vanaf SUNSAT I te ontvang is ontwerp en gebou. 'n Kristal b heerde ossillator is ontwerp met 'n frekwensie toleransie van kleiner en gelyk aan ± 0.003 % wanneer dit ingestem word sender die nodige RF toerusting. 'n Ekonomiese wyeband - seingenerator is gemplementeer met 'n 74ACT14 logiese vlokkie om as 'n RF - bron gebruik te word om die ontvanger in te stel. Die boonste (hoer) harmoniek van die 4 kHz vierkantsgolf word as 'n "RF bron" gebruik. 'n Klankkaart is suksesvol gebruik as 'n modem om 1200 baud AFSK data (AX.25 protokol) te ontvang en die data met die nodige sagteware op 'n skerm te vertoon. Data is uitgcstuur vanaf 'n ander grondstasie

Successful Exploration : Organisational Ambidexterity and Performance in News Media Firms

Purpose: This paper sheds light on the distinctive nature of entrepreneurial-oriented behaviours in news media firms. We reconsider conceptualisations of exploitation and exploration in the industry and seek to explore the extent to which they are related to organisational performance. Methodology: In a cross-sectional study, we draw on data from a longitudinal investigation into the decision making of news media executives worldwide. The study focuses on a correlational analysis of primary data collected from media executives across 107 countries. With a large sample size (N = 1438) and strict significance testing, we address the potential limitations of a purposive sampling strategy. Findings/Contribution: We find that firms that prioritise exploration higher than exploitation are more likely to be reporting financial success than those who do the opposite. We propose that the study contributes to the understanding of the impact of volatile times on the media industry, by suggesting that, even in the midst of considerable disruption, the exploration of new opportunities nevertheless has the potential to reap financial rewards. In so doing, it answers both the specific appeal for greater clarity of organisational ambidexterity measures, as well as calls to test and expand existing theory in various contexts, and to develop theory that is directly pertinent to media management science.Peer reviewe

Large Image Support in Digital Repositories

Many universities, libraries, government organisations and companies are implementing digital repositories to collect, preserve, administer and distribute their collections via the World Wide Web. In the process of building these digital archives and collections, images such as maps are often are captured in an uncompressed, high-resolution format to preserve as much detail as possible. This process, of high-resolution archiving gives rise to the problem of providing the end-user with access to these large (high-resolution) images, such as maps. This dissertation investigates methods of storing and delivering large images over the Internet while limiting the amount of data being transferred; and also documents efforts to incorporate large image support within the DSpace platform. An end-user usability study of various large image support solutions was conducted to establish how current digital repository large image solutions compared to commercial large image solutions. The study showed that the commercial large image solutions were superior to current digital repository solutions. A prototype large image solution was developed with a specific aim to provide DSpace with mechanisms to import and deliver large images in a bandwidth-conscious manner. It was found that by implementing and extending currently available open source large image processing software, large image support could be provided to the DSpace platform with minimal or no modification to the DSpace source code. An end user evaluation study was conducted to establish the usability and effectiveness of the prototype large image support solution. It was found that the prototype system provided an easy to use solution that provides DSpace with an effective large image archiving and delivery mechanism

Securing the Future of UK Public-Interest News: Navigating Change With Foresight and Innovation

This article delves into the factors driving change in the UK’s public-interest news sector, pinpointing key uncertainties that shape its future. Through a participatory action research approach and scenario planning, the study News Futures 2035, seeks to answer the pivotal question: How can the UK ensure the ongoing supply of trustworthy, public-interest news? It stands out for its unique focus, enriching the debate among industry, academia, policymakers, and civil society on safeguarding the sector’s future. The research identified two primary, unpredictable elements with significant influence: the realm of policies, regulations, and governance; and the industry’s capacity for innovation to maintain the relevance of public-interest news for all stakeholders. The study highlights the indispensable role of collaborative action research and continuous dialogue among key stakeholders. It emphasizes the need for structured, cooperative efforts to navigate the complexities of policy, regulation, and consumer relevance, introducing the concept of back-channel deliberations, akin to track 2 diplomacy, as a valuable strategy for engaging diverse stakeholders in informal yet structured discussions. This method promises to foster a platform for innovative solutions and mutual understanding, addressing the challenges to the future supply of public-interest news. The participants’ commitment to advancing this dialogue through a dedicated forum underlines the importance of ongoing stakeholder engagement to ensure the sector’s relevance, sustainability, and societal impact

World Press Trends 2019

Highlights from this year's report: News media’s conundrum: This year’s research and data bear out the paradox within our industry. With global revenues (-3% YoY, print & digital) and (especially newsroom) resources continuing to shrink, the business challenges facing publishers are palpable. However, quality news has never been in more demand than today, reflected in the growth of paying audiences for news content (+0.5% YoY). The Subscription Economy: Paying news audiences – print and digital – rose to 640 million per day in 2018, fuelled primarily by the continued strategy and growth in getting readers to convert to digital subscribers (up 11% YoY). Digital news subscriber numbers worldwide have increased 208% over five years to 2018 and are expected to grow by a further 13% in 2019. Nearly 54% of newspapers’ overall revenue comes from circulation sales, up 1% YoY but forecast down 2% for 2019 as prices come under pressure. Print still paying the bills: Despite much of the focus on digital transformation, we estimate that print revenues still account for about 86 percent of news publishers’ revenue. In 2018 print circulation declined only 1 percent globally. Naturally, that picture varies from region to region and from country to country. For the most part, however, print advertising continues its steep decline (-7% YoY).Paid circulation (in millions) Paid circulation (in millions) That other conundrum – tech giants: Google continues to be the most important traffic source for news media companies globally, accounting for two out of every three page views from the leading global technology companies, according to our analysis of data from Chartbeat. Worldwide, Google provides 25 times the traffic for publishers that Twitter does and almost two and a half times what Facebook does. Yet the relationship with tech platforms remains tenuous if at times hopeful. The power of a free and independent press: This year’s World Press Trends also offers robust statistical evidence that shows direct and strong relationships between a free and independent press and factors that indicate the strength of democracies, the health of societies, as well as both the wealth of nations and the fortunes of its people

Dr François Nel, Reader/Associate Professor of Media Innovation and Entrepreneurship and Dr Kamila Rymajdo, Post-Doctoral Researcher, News Futures 2035, University of Central Lancashire—written evidence (FON0044) House of Lords Communications and Digital Select Committee inquiry: The future of news: impartiality, trust, and technology

This abstract synthesises the submission to the House of Lords Communications and Digital Select Committee Inquiry into The Future of News, contributed by Dr François Nel and Dr Kamila Rymajdo of the University of Central Lancashire. Based on the comprehensive findings from the News Futures 2035 study, the submission tackles the pivotal issues concerning the future of trustworthy public-interest news, highlighting the significant impact of impartiality, trust, and technological advancements on the media sector. The News Futures 2035 foresight study, supported by notable entities including the Public Interest News Foundation and the Google News Initiative, has engaged over 300 stakeholders from various sectors. It brings to light several major trends influencing news consumption today. Key among these are the role of online intermediaries, which are altering media plurality and information dissemination, thereby impacting public understanding and trust in news. Another critical aspect is the integration and implications of generative AI within journalism. There is an urgent need for enhanced AI literacy to ensure that AI tools are used to foster accurate reporting rather than contributing to the spread of misinformation. The submission also examines the evolving challenges of maintaining impartiality in news reporting amidst competing demands for content that aligns with specific values. This is crucial in maintaining public trust, which has seen a notable decline, particularly in the post-Brexit environment. The role of public-interest journalism is emphasised as a public good, necessitating broad access, transparency, and accountability. Recommendations put forth include the establishment of a News Futures Forum, a multi-stakeholder body that would facilitate collaboration and innovation across the news ecosystem. This forum would focus on building collective knowledge, enhancing policy and regulatory frameworks, and bolstering news literacy and capacity within the industry. Such collaborative efforts are deemed essential for addressing the current imbalances in power between publishers and online platforms, and for fostering an environment where public-interest news can thrive. The abstract underscores the submission’s call for a unified effort from news organisations, policymakers, technology companies, and civil society to foster a sustainable news ecosystem. By focusing on innovation, community engagement, and the rigorous application of ethical standards, the future of news can effectively serve the public and support the foundations of democracy. This collective approach is critical for the preservation and enhancement of public-interest journalism in the digital age

World News Publishers Outlook 2017: Executive Summary

Leaders of news media firms worldwide are pressured to innovate. To keep on keeping on the same track, while technology platforms evolve, advertisers’ options increase and audience preferences change around you, is not a realistic option. But shifting focus carries significant risks, and the rewards are uncertain. Deciding what to change and how to go about changing it is certainly not straightforward. So, just how are news media managers tackling the challenge? To find answers, the Innovation Research Group and WAN-IFRA again surveyed executives at member organisations in 10 languages. Responses to the 7th annual study conducted over the third quarter of 2016 came from nearly 250 decision-makers in 65 countries across six continents. The majority (82 per cent) are at organisations that are in private hands, while 6 per cent worked in government-owned media firms and 4 per cent were in public service organisations without direct political control. By far the largest group of respondents, 43 per cent, sit in C-suites, serve on boards, or own their companies. Other responses came from editorial, commercial, and technology managers, as well as from a very small number (2 per cent) of consultants and academics (the methodology is detailed below). Whatever their company profile, however, they are involved, and wherever they are based, most of those surveyed agree that the single biggest risk to their organisation’s success is not the loss of advertising revenues – though 65 per cent report traditional advertising income declines and many fret about their financial futures. “Not diversifying our revenue sources from the traditional print advertising into TV and digital advertising models,” said an editorial manager from Kenya. “Business Model sustainability over the next years,” is the biggest concern of a senior executive from Brazil. Technology platforms aren’t the respondents’ primarily worry either – though they are troubled by the power search and social media companies have on how content is discovered, as well as the roles of platforms and advertising exchanges in how income is delivered. “Where people consume news – social media/ other web,” was the top concern of an editorial manager from the United Kingdom. “Loss local advertising to Google & Co.,” said a top manager from Germany. Political instability isn’t their No 1 concern either – though some fear the actions of elected and unelected politicians. “Political polarization,” said an editorial manager from Malta. “Prosecution for criticizing the government,” said an editorial manager from Russia. “Brexit,” said a technology manager from the United Kingdom. Indeed, the respondents to this year’s survey do not see any single external factor as posing the greatest threat to their businesses. Instead, they are most anxious about what was going on inside their organisations. News media executives worldwide say the single biggest risk to their future success is this: their organisation’s reluctance to innovate. “Habits [are] changing faster than we can innovate,” answered an editorial executive from the United States. “The biggest risk is that senior management does not make decisions quickly,” said an editorial manager from Bolivia. They are right to be concerned. Our study participants expect that their firms will need to radically change their business models if they are to meet future expectations. And there is no time to waste. Seventy per cent say that over the next 12 months up to 30 per cent of their income should come from non-traditional media activities (i.e. other than content sales and advertising) if they are to reach their financial goals. That figure flips exactly when we asked for their medium-term outlook. Seven out of 10 respondents expect that over the next five years more than 30 per cent of their firm's income will need to come from diverse revenue streams if they are to be successful