Defending tablet-only publications

August 10, 2012 - In an editorial called "The Digital Domain," published on pubexec.com, Ron Matejko, president of MVP Media, defends digital-only publications despite failures in the past. He tackles the subject of The Daily, the iPad-only publication that has laid off a third of its staff. Analysts say The Daily is losing $30 million annually.

"Reports stated News Corp. spent $30 million on the launch with another $20 million in expenses during its first year," Matekjo writes. "A $50 million tab is exorbitant for a digital start up venture but not surprising considering its bloated staff of 170. This isn’t indicative of a startup mentality. This is old media thinking for a new media venture."

"And what did The Daily provide its readers for that massive investment? Well, when was the last time The Daily broke a substantial news story, or shined the light on a subject with an in-depth investigative piece? The content is bland."

Another reason for its failure, he writes, is the lack of an inviting design. "Don’t let The Daily’s struggles define the destiny for media’s digital migration."

For the full editorial, click here.

By Elizabeth A. Reid