The Complexities Of New Media: Can The ‘Web Media’ Completely Erase Traditional Media From The Communication Industry (Published)

Over the years, there has been a popular outcry among investors and operators in the communication industry that the advent of new Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) will affect the survival and mode of operation of the traditional media, especially newspapers and magazines. Although it is not in doubt that these technologies pose serious challenges to the survival of mainstream media. This has generated controversies as to whether the ‘web media’ will completely erase or overshadow the conventional media. This and other issues surrounding the convergence of new and mainstream media, is the thrust of this paper.  

Keywords: E-Media, E-News, Media, Newspaper, Web Media, communication

Changing Times: Prospects of Community Press In the Information Society: A Case of Gweru Times (Published)

The means and ways through which communities receive information has transformed over the past years. Circulating of news through printed newspaper has evolved into a more digital path leaving many questions regarding the future of the printed press. Harper (2010) notes that this shift is sometimes called the social media revolution. Community newspapers play a pivotal role in promoting and maintaining the quality of life in small communities. These roles arise because the community press is often the only media source that provides exclusive local content. To keep the citizens of that community informed of the events, decisions, discussions and debates occurring in their own community. In this information age the community press is undergoing changes and as such the community press should be aware of how people access information in order to stay relevant and prosperous. Nasir (2012) notes that The Information Society or Information Age is a new phenomenon since 1950 which brings with it new challenges as we seek to integrate an expanding universe of print and multimedia sources into our daily lives.  Community papers are also becoming more and more prevalent in the country.   Sawasky (2010) summarizes that there are three general duties that a community newspaper attempts to fulfill and notes that firstly, the community newspaper is responsible to the citizens of that community to keep them informed and aware of current events. Secondly, the newspaper supports and encourages local businesses as it also a local business that thrives economically when the community thrives. Finally, the community newspaper performs as a vital communications tool for the services of the community.

Keywords: Blog, Community Press, E-News, Information Society, Newspaper