The Chicago Tribune, one of America’s greatest and most troubled newspapers, launched an experiment today that make sense.
It may be too little, too late. And it may not address the digital future.
But the Tribune’s move to a tabloid size for its street sale edition is a smart move from a reader’s perspective.
The digital future is upon us, and many people rushing to and from work are getting their news on cell phones. But many commuters in cities like Chicago still want to grab a newspaper to read on the train/bus. And the tabloid size simply is easier to read on the go.
Check it out here. Of course, it’s easy to look good on the eve of an historic event like tomorrow’s inauguration. Just run a big picture of Barack Obama.
But if the Trib’s design staff continues to create a compelling tab cover, combined with the news staff’s reputation for quality journalism, their single copy sales are likely to increase. And that’s the point.
The Tribune, which is in bankruptcy following the crazy escapades of owner Sam Zell, needs a few successes under its belt.