The idea that newspapers are forced to “unbundle” as they turn digital is a very interesting observation that in my opinion holds true in many aspects. This becomes a problem like Nicholas Carr alluded to when newspapers are primarily funded by advertisers. Carr suggests the definition of a “successful” article has changed from good, detailed reporting to those that are able to attract a high amount of readers that click on advertisements. This puts a lot of pressure on digital newspapers to only publish stories that advertisers want to advertise on and leave out many important humanitarian, political, social and worldly articles that wouldn’t necessarily be conducive for an advertiser’s message. For example, most advertisers wouldn’t want to be associated with articles regarding government corruption or a new outbreak of AIDS. Thus these important issues and stories have the potential to be left out in order for the newspaper to make money.
Looking at this move from physical to digital, newspapers are becoming less of news and more catered toward advertising messages. The solution lies not in trying to find a perfect balance between the two, but to find a way for digital newspapers to make a profit without solely relying on advertising. Easier said than done, I’m sure.
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