After reading, We the Media by Dan Gillmor, I have been asked: What is the most important point, and why?
Gillmor makes two major points. First, the Internet has given us the ability to exchange information and converse openly, freely, and very easily, which in turn, has and will continue to forever change traditional public relations, journalism, politics, and Big Media as we know it. We the Media. Anyone can be a reporter, photographer, critic, and the like. Additionally, Gillmor stresses that it is vital that we fully embrace this change and allow ourselves to be part of it, not to ignore it, in order to succeed.
Up until very recently, traditional media was all we had. Whether we received it via TV, radio, newspapers, or books, we were only consumers of news. Today, with Internet websites like OhMyNews and Kuro5hin, participatory journalism has blossomed. And, rightfully so! Two heads are better than one. And, collectively, the audience knows more than the experienced member of the press. Gillmor outlines this very well, and goes on to mention that participatory journalism is also helpful in unique niches, which I agree. Gillmor says, “My main focus in this book is on what happens when people at the edges participate in the news-gathering and dissemination processes…The news is what we make of it, in more ways than one.”
In order to succeed in PR, journalism, politics, and business in the 21st century, we must understand and participate in this conversation. We must recognize its value and importance and follow suit. In Chapter 6, Dan Gillmor goes on to discuss traditional media’s opportunity, in which he criticizes the choice some organizations make to not include reporters’ or editors’ email addresses at the end of stories, and The Washington Post’s webchats as not enough interactivity with the audience. I think he’s gone a bit too far and I have to disagree.
Depending on the organization, providing an email address at the end of an article is not always necessary. Any person with a valid question or comment can discover contact information, whether it be on the “Contact Us” link, or choose to call the main number, or use the generic email address provided. I believe that perhaps by making it “too” accessible, the writer/editor would be bombarded with bogus emails cluttering their inbox, making it a waste of time – already short on time with numerous deadlines. I believe The Washington Post’s attempt at community discussions and conversations via their webchat is a good idea. Additionally, they have links to blogs, past and current discussions, and podcasts. Instead, I wish Dan Gillmor provided constructive criticism on what exactly the site is lacking – because to me, it seems well done. Realistically, what more could they have done to increase interactivity in this case?
We the Media was informative and interesting. With the exception of a few comments, I agree with Dan Gillmor and enjoyed his book.
