ABC launches service to direct web traffic on news site to coverage on commercial media
The ABC is rolling out a new feature across its websites flagging where coverage of a story or issue is available elsewhere on the web, in a new section called “from other news sites”.
In the UK the public broadcaster the BBC has used a similar device for a number of years called Newstracker, in a bid to counter criticisms from vocal critics of the broadcaster that it is sucking audiences away from independent and other commercial news organisations.
The service will have a focus on domestic news, but also point audiences in the direction of other popular news sites. According to Nielsen Online rankings ABC News’ sites are the fourth most popular site in Australia, with a unique audience of 2.5m.
Regional and local media will also get a boost from the new service.
ABC managing director Mark Scott said: “We are happy to bring audiences in and help them find the information they need, even if that means directing them to another site. If our service is valuable, we know they will come back.”
Director of news Kate Torney said the move would help to enhance the online news ecosystem, adding: “It is great for our audience and also for the entire media industry.”
Alex Hayes
Will the commercial sites reciprocate and do the same with the ABC? I doubt it.
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