WSJ gets interactive on Facebook

Users can add the WSJ Social app to their personal Facebook accounts and, for the first month, the content will be available for free. This is part of Dell’s deal with WSJ as its exclusive launch advertiser for the app.

Following the introductory period, content within the app will be a mix of free and subscriber-only content. The WSJ Social app will remain free to add, while full access to all content will be available via the Journal’s digital bundle subscription.

The release is still in beta-form and features such as customisation and further content integration will be added in the coming weeks.

“We’re breaking the mold of using Facebook simply to drive traffic to our websites and are now creating an opportunity to engage with the Journal directly on the Facebook platform,” said Alisa Bowen, general manager of The Wall Street Journal Digital Network.

The aim, added Bowen, is to create a "more integrated" experience for WSJ’s readers as well as innovative opportunities for advertisers.

Part of the customisation experience for users is the ability to select stories to be shared with their WSJ Social network. Users can then elect to follow specific “editors” whose content is the most relevant and interesting.

The launch of WSJ Social comes on the heels of the new WSJ Live interactive video app release. Both are integral to the company’s ‘Journal Everywhere’ strategy of making content available "wherever audiences are", with user experiences specifically designed for each platform.