This article focuses on the issue of The New York Times launching a new site called The Upshot. The website will be a combination of data-driven and explanatory reporting which readers may find useful. Significantly, the editor of The Upshot David Leonhardt, wrote on his Facebook page that the aim of the website is to help people's understanding with big and complex stories. He argues that this would be done "by writing in a direct, plain-spoken way, the same voice we might use when writing an email to a friend. We’ll be conversational without being dumbed down". It could be suggested that this would have a positive impact on people, especially for those who have difficulty understanding complex issues. He further argues that: "We will build on all of the excellent journalism the New York Times is already producing, by helping readers make connections among different stories and understand how those stories fit together." To add, the site will be using graphics and inter actives to help non-expects understand the news which highlights a positive factor.
To conclude, it can be argued that the new website The Upshot would be beneficial among people. This is because some people may find it useful if they have difficulties understanding a complex new issue, as the website will help them. In relation to new/digital media, this shows a decline in print as a vast majority of people are receiving their news online, rather than purchasing a copy. The fact that individuals can download news app on their smartphones reinforces the idea that there is a decline in traditional forms of media and therefore the development of technology has allowed people to receive information instantly.
This article focuses on the issue of Facebook working with News Corp-owed Storyful to launch a FB Newswire. The aim of this project is to make it easier for journalists and newsrooms to "find, share and embed newsworthy content from Facebook" in their work. Significantly, the companies hope that FB Newswire will be beneficial resource for journalists to form newsworthy content shared publicly on Facebook, by individuals and organisations globally. To add, FB Newswire is powered by Storyful which significantly will be formed as a social news agency. This is because individuals can distribute their own videos and generate content by posting up pictures or updating their status. Furthermore, Facebook has more than 1 billion users globally which highlights the company's success in enabling people to connect globally. Storyful was founded in 2010 and brought up Rupert Murdock's News Corp for £15m. The managing editor for Storyful, Aine Kerr states: ""Storyful's discovery technology and expert journalists will bring a new layer of verification, expert curation and community engagement to content on [Facebook]". This could suggest that FB Wire will be useful for journalists to share newsworthy content from Facebook easily. To conclude, it can be argued that the launch of FB Newswire would a useful tool for journalists as they will have the opportunity to share and embed newsworthy content from Facebook. As a result, this contrasts to traditional forms of media as journalist would have to reply on print media for their content. This establishes that new/digital media plays a vital role in changing consumers lifestyle, as most people receive their news content through social media.
What concerns/ considerations are there (if any) for the media institutions involved in your case study as a result of the impact of new and digital media? (e.g. deskilling or multi-skilling of the workforce/ decline in workforce etc)
Although there are positive factors for using Facebook such as more interaction, generating content, receiving latest information, there are also concerns for this media institution. For example, there are privacy concerns associated with Facebook which has caused some users to deactivated their account. According to The Guardian, it was rumoured that "Facebook was scanning private user messages to equate conversation with the page "likes", and another that claimed private messages were being posted to public-facing users timelines". This establishes that there are concerns over Facebook as even though the development of new media has made it easy for people to interact with others, there are privacy issues raises. This is further reinforced through a doctoral student at Oxford, Caroline Andrey who states: "There are lots of people who are really angry about having their privacy abused, not least me". However, Facebook had 1,230 million monthly users which could highlight that the positive effect for this social networking site in the future, as there could be a increase of users over the years.
Similarly, Turkey's prime minister Tayyip Edrogan is in favour of blocking Facebook and Twitter because he believes that it is damaging his reputation.According to the article, Twitter users in Turkey have posted voice recordings and documents which show evidence of the corruption among Erdogan group. The prime minster's action blocking Twitter is for "protection measures". Significantly, Turkish telecoms watchdog stated that the ban was caused by citizens complaining about the social media platform violating privacy. Watchdog claimed that they asked Twitter to remove some content but they failed to do so, and therefore Twitter was blocked by courts in order to prevent victimisation of citizens in the future. Furthermore, Erdogan made threats about blocking social media sites after the audio recordings on his alleged conversations suggested corruption was leaked online. He also favoured on banning social sites such as Facebook and Youtube in society, in order to protect the country. For example, the steps to prevent spying on the government would be to shutting sites down as, "these people or institutions are [using social media] for all kinds of immorality, all kinds of espionage and spying.". Conversely, Turkish Twitter users quickly worked around this issue by tweeting the hashtag, '#TwitterisblockedTurkey', which rapidly began to trend globally. As a result, many people began to compare Turkey to Iran and North Korea, where social media is strictlycontrolled and there was also calls for a protest on the streets. As a result, this establishes a privacy concern over Facebook in some countries, which has made some people favour in banning social media. Thus it could be suggested that the development of new/digital media has caused concerns for some people, regarding illegal issues.
Tayyip Erdogan: "These people or institutions are [using social media] for all kinds of immorality, all kinds of espionage and spying".
8.What are the political and social implications of the new technologies and the methods of their consumption? E.g. moral panics etc?
In relation to Facebook and Democracy, there have been both social and political implication which has been caused by the development of new technology. A prime example of this would be the Arab Spring which took place in countries such as, Tunisia, Egypt, Libya and Yemen. The Arab Spring refers to the "revolutionary wave of demonstration and protests, riots, and civil wars", which was caused by citizens rebelling against their regime's rules. Significantly, a number of issues led to the protest in these countries such as, dictatorship, human rights, political corruption, unemployment ect. The first protest occurred in Tunisia and the demonstrations were a result of high unemployment, corruption, lack of freedom of speech and political speech. Arguably, the protests would not have occurred without the development of Facebook as it was a source for Tunisians to generate awareness of the corruption occurring in their country under the power of Ben Ali. This highlights a social and political implication of new technology as through Facebook citizens had the power to challenge the challenge the hierarchy by forming activist groups and posting up messages and clips.This generated an unstoppable awareness which led more people to challenge the power of the regime, and this led to copycat demonstrations in other countries associated with the Arab Spring. As a result, this highlights the concept of user-generated content which gathered millions of Tunisian's to protest against the regime in order to fulfil their goal by having a democratic society and being treated equally. It could be suggested that the development of new media has changed the methods of consumption for users as they can now generate their own content and receive information instantly, which would not of been possible through traditional forms of media.
Moreover, China has a strong censorship policy on Facebook as it has been blocked since 2009 because the Xinjian independence activist were using Facebook as part of their communication network. The government realised the power of Facebook to connect globally and therefore he decided to block the site across the nation. Notably, he also realised that they could not specifically censor each post and therefore they blocked the site and Twitter. As a result, citizens were not pleased about this decision because Facebook was a tool for them to socially interact with others, which highlights a political implication. However, last year China had lift the ban on Facebook but only for citizens living in a 17 square mile are of Shangai.
Quotes: Roger Cohen: "Tunisia was a Facebook revolution. But I prefer a phrase I heard in Tunisa: “The Dignity Revolution".
9. Consider the effects so far, and possible effects in the future, on media institutions involved in your case study (media production).
As Facebook has become increasingly among people and has empowered audiences to generate content, it could be argued that this social networking site will have have a effect on the future, whether it is negative or positive. The positive effects of Facebook in the future is that more people would be using it to receive their latest information, communicate with others, instead of using traditional forms of media. The video below is from The Telegraph which shares their thoughts on the future of Facebook and how they should improve their strategy to appeal to the users. According to the video, the first aspect which Facebook should change is to make sure that not every picture is kept or status and therefore they preserve what users want and deletes what they don't. Secondly, Facebook should work out where they fit with shopping by taking money out of advertising and therefore becoming a social-Amazon, which could make them more successful. Thirdly, Facebook should get more people online even though in developed marketing it is growing by 1%, in developing worlds there is a huge potential for Facebook to get new people. The social networking site had 1.2 billion people over the first year and over the next year Facebook may have 5 billion or more people online. As a result, this video is significant in showing the positive effects of Facebook in the future if they change their strategy in order to gain more users.
Furthermore, according to The Telegraph Facebook looked at developing a smartphone but failed to go ahead with this strategy. It could be suggested that in the future Facebook could possible launch another app to generate revenue and increase the amount of users. Significantly, Mark Zukerberg purchased Whatsapp which makes the company more valuable. The purpose of purchasing this app was to make the world more connected and therefore this would be achieved by building service that will help people share any type of content with any group they want. Notably, What app is fast and a reliable mobile messaging service that is used by over 450m people, and will continue to operate independently within Facebook. It was stated in The Guardian,"Facebook Messenger is widely used for chatting with your Facebook friends, and WhatsApp for communicating with all of your contacts and small groups of people. Since WhatsApp and Messenger serve such different and important uses, we will continue investing in both and making them each great products for everyone". It could be suggested that Facebook will be increasingly popular in the future as now they have taken over Whatsapp,
10. What issues may there be regarding media effects and /or regulation/ censorship as a result of changes due to new and digital media?
censorship - banning or deleting information
In relation to Facebook and democracy there are issues regarding censorship, as some countries such as China, Iran, North Korea, Cuba, have banned social networking sites. Iranian authorities have blocked anything on the internet which was considered to be critical against society's norms. After 2009 elecetion, the leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei banned online chatting between unrelated men and women. The ruling came after the Iranian authorities blocked Webchat, which is a popular messaging app that enables smart phone users to access online social networks. Many bloggers, online activists and technical staff have faced jailed time terms, harassment and abuse for using the internet. Ironically, many Iranians officials are actively using their Facebook and Twitter accounts such as President Hassan. Significantly, "The Internet has been a battleground in Iran between those wanting for more freedoms, and others who feel they must protect society from dangerous influence". This establishes that are issues regarding censorship as some countries do not tolerate Facebook users and therefore it is hard for some citizens to achieve their goal in having a democratic society. Notably, the government has launched "cyberpolice units" charged with tracking those who try to visit banned Internet or social media sites. However, Facebook has become restored for citizens after four years. Articles
11.Are there any cross-cultural factors and /or effects of globalisation involved in the impact of new technology on your case study? E.g. the internet has been said to be ‘globalising culture’ through its promotion of the English language It could be argued that there are effects of globalisation on Facebook, as it is not accessible in most countries. Through Facebook people can generate their own content and communicate with others, which makes this social networking site a 'global village'. Users can share information globally and voice their opinions without feeling restricted. As a result, some users have taken this as a advantage as they have freedom to express their views. Notably, it is fair to say that Facebook is a 'globalising culture' through its promotion of the English Language, as users can quickly and effectively communicate online, without experiencing any difficulties.
Moreover, one could argue that globalisation has had an effect on Facebook and there is an increase of cultural imperialism. This is because, on Facebook there are continuous trends which are shown through advertisements. As a result, this could suggest that certain cultures are being promoted to users, which are usually associated with western culture. Thus this would make people becoming more closer by sharing the same values and cultures.
12. Consider theoretical perspectives in relation to the impact of new/ digital media in your case study. E.g. Representation of certain groups as a result of changes, Marxism & Hegemony, Liberal Pluralism, colonialism, audience theories etc.
In relation to Pluralism, Facebook illustrates that individuals are no longer passive consumers of the media text as they are generating their own content and challenging the hegemonic ideologies in society. This highlights the concept of UGC, as users can actively post up their own videos without feeling restricted, which links to the Arab Spring protests. Notably, the audience have access to plural values enabling them to conform, accommodate or reject society's values. This establishes that through Facebook's news feed users do not have to believe everything which us being shown. To add, Facebook offers a wide range of products to consumers through advertisements which gives users a diversity of choice and therefore they can 'pick n mix' which lifestyle they want.
Furthermore, according to Katz and Blulmer Uses and Gratification model people may use Facebook for personal relationship and surveillance. This is because through Facebook users receive latest updates about social issues and they have the opportunity to communicate with others. As a result, this may empower users as they can interact with their friends globally without using traditional forms of media, which reinforces the idea that they are active agencies.
This article focuses on the issue of individuals using social media as a tool to express their views, although there are disadvantages to this. According to this article, social media is certainly a great enabler for free speech and the quickest way to communicate. However, not many people perceive social media in a positively, as in China and Vietnam the internet is closely censored and in Saudi Arabia a simple retweet could lead a person into prison.
Notably, on social networking sites such as Twitter there has been online conflict as users have the freedom to express their views on a issue they disagree with. For instance, in the UK Caroline Criado Perez received misogynistic threats when she launched a campaign to keep a woman on a £10 note. Significantly, rape threats, hate speech and racism are common issues on social media, which made some people perceive social networking sites dangerous.To add, the Crown Prosecution Service published a set of laws in relation to social media and as a consequence, people can be prosecuted depending on what they post on Twitter. It was argued that people should be prosecuted by threats and systematic harassment in order to protect free speech.
To conclude, it can be argued that there are advantages and disadvantages of using social media. For instance, social networking sites gives users the opportunities to express their views, communicate with others globally, receive the latest news. However, there are disadvantages of using Facebook and Twitter such as racist or sexist comments and threats, which could lead to some people in prison for inappropriate posts. In relation to new/digital media, this establishes the the development of technology has brought about postie and negative issues, which differs from traditional forms of media.
This article focuses on the issue of the Guardian online news content gaining 100 million browsers in a month for the first time. Significantly, stories including the search of the Malaysia Airways jet increased online traffic for most UK national newspapers. It could be suggested that this is one of the reason for the boost of online traffic for the Guardian, as the readers would want to know more about this issue. To add, the MediaGuardian had 102.3 million monthly users in March which is vital as it is there hit new record.
Furthermore, according to David Pemsel, deputy chief executive of Guardian News & Media states: ""100 million browsers is an historic landmark for everyone at the Guardian – but we won't rest on our laurels. We'll continue to innovate editorially, digitally and commercially in order to break new ground and attract still more readers to our world-class, independent, open journalism". This establishes that the company is going to continue to satisfy their readers in order to attract new audiences and maintain their success. Notably, the Guardian online is the second UK newspaper to top 100 million monthlybrowsers, which establishes that the site is continually popular among readers.
To conclude, it can be argued that the Guardian website is extremely popular amongst readers because it contains a wide range of issues which would appeal to them and is free content. The Guardian targets the social demographic of middle class individuals (A/B) as they are more likely to keep up-to-date with the lasted global issues, which the website provides. The fact that people can now access the Guardian through their smartphones by downloading the app, highlights the advantages of new media as it gives individuals instant updates which would not of been provided through traditional forms of media.
This article focuses on the issue of BBC extending programmes on iPlayer for audiences. Shows including Sherlock, Doctor Who and Top Gear will be available for the audiences to watch up to 30 days after being transmitted online. This is beneficial as it gives the spectators an extra three weeks to catch up with their favourite programmes. Significantly, iPlayer had 3 billion requests for TV and radio programmes last year, especially for the BBC2 show Top Gear. Although this new approach would be beneficial, there is a disadvantage as some programmes will be available for less time. Furthermore, iPlayer is very popular amongst the audiences and therefore the company want to carry on the success. Diane Coyle of vice chairman of BB trust states: "It is important that iPlayer continues to evolve and meet the expectations of users. We have conducted a thorough assessment of these proposals, including taking independent advice from Ofcom, and concluded that this is a sensible move that will benefit audiences and provide a clearer and more consistent catch-up service". To add, audiences wanted programmes to be available for a extended period of time and therefore BBC decided to make this change, in order to meet audiences needs. Moreover, new iPlayer has downloads, extended programmes, HD etc all contribute in making the audience satisfy. Overall, it can be argued that BBC iPlayer will become more successful amongst the audience because of their new approach. This is because people can now watch their programmes up to 30 days, which gives them more time. It could be suggested that there would be a decline amongst the spectators watching their programmes on TV, as it would available online instead.
This article focuses on the issue of Facebook receiving more than 70% of request in 2013 in connection with criminal cases. According to this article, law enforcement agencies in the UK made thousands of requests for users data. Significantly, between July and December 2013 there were 1,906 requests submitted to Facebook for users data as they believed it was related to criminal cases. As a result, these requests affected 2,277 different accounts, and Facebook stated that 70% of these requests saw some data produced. They revealed: "We respond to valid requests relating to criminal cases. Each and every request we receive is checked for legal sufficiency and we reject or require greater specificity on requests that are overly broad or vague," said the report". This shows that law enforcement agencies use Facebook to track users which they believe have links to criminal cases, thus highlighting that the development of new media has benefited agencies to track individuals easier.
In addition, Facebook general counsel Collin Stretch claims: "Facebook's mission is to give people the power to share, and to make the world more open and connected. Sometimes, the laws of a country interfere with that mission, by limiting what can be shared there. Effectively, last year Apple and Google created the reform goverment surveillance scheme, which to increase transparency and accountability when it comes to online snooping by the state. To conclude, it can be argued that the development of new/digital media has had positive impact on law enforcement agencies as they can use Facebook to track down uses for related criminal cases. It is clear that the emergence of new media has given agencies many opportunities, which would not be possible through traditional forms of media.
