News has never been in such a state of flux. The days of waiting for the morning paper or the suppertime broadcast are long gone. Consumers want news at their fingertips, anytime, anywhere, and expect it to be up-to-the-minute and information-rich. The digital revolution permits viewers to engage with journalists at the scene of a story, or even chat directly with the story-makers themselves. Multiple data streams, including blogs, social media, and web video, allow consumers to delve into the stories relevant to them to an almost unlimited depth. With audiences increasingly turning to a vast array of alternative sources for their news - and the expression "Main Stream Media" becoming pop culture jargon for an institution out of touch - traditional broadcast news is facing a challenge to its very survival.
This discussion panel will examine the state of news in the digital age and the innovative ways in which news is being gathered, reported and consumed in a global marketplace. The diverse line-up will include speakers from major international broadcasters, viewer-supported and user-generated news organisations, and citizen journalists operating at the cutting edge. Topics will include case studies of news outlets connecting with audiences through social media and user-generated content, how the web is allowing consumers to create their own trusted news sources and how broadcasters are trying to work with the democratisation of journalism, not against it.
We anticipate a lively discussion about what's in store for the future and how the digital "fourth estate" can adapt itself to best serve a changing world where everyone is potentially a citizen journalist. You will discover how to communicate with a new breed of news consumer and discover strategies for forming partnerships with the public rather than merely delivering information to a passive audience.
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