Does traditional media still have a place in consumers hearts? We've asked two authors.

Does traditional media still have a place among consumers?

MG: Yes, with niche audiences, to the extent that those that can identify very specific groups and form deep attachments with them can survive. I don’t know whether it can survive as a mass medium.






PI: I only consume old media and as little as possible. I think the older it is, the more sustaining power it’s going to have in the years to come.

What print/traditional mediums do you still read?

MG: The New Yorker magazine where I work and Car Magazine, my favourite magazine. Those again are specialty magazines.

PI: Where I live in rural Japan, I get no newspapers, no television, no internet and no magazines — here, it’s a complete blackout. But when I do emerge in the US, I read magazines and I listen to the radio, and that’s it.

Will the iPad change the way we consume books and media? Will you buy an iPad?

MG: Undoubtedly. The more the digital experience begins to capture some of the magic of the print experience, the bigger role it’s going to play. Will I buy an iPad? Eventually, I’m sure.

PI: You’ve asked the wrong person. I haven’t even made it to the iPod yet.

Which online news sites do you frequent? Why are they relevant to you?

MG: I’m a big sports fan. I get all my sports information from online. It’s incredibly efficient. Following sports involves so much information, which changes so quickly. The opinion on offer is also valuable and fun, so the web has deeply enhanced the way I read up on sport.

PI: Only The New York Times site.

Online pay walls - would you pay? If so, which media?

MG: Yes, I pay for my coffee in the morning so I don’t see why I shouldn’t pay for content.

PI: No, but mostly because I’m such a hardcore devotee of the old ways.

What is your favourite social media tool? What do you use it for?

MG: I don’t do social media.

PI: I’m not on any social media network. I’ve been invited many times but no.

Got a view?
Email [email protected]

This article was originally published in the 25 March 2010 issue of Media.