The term “new media” is used very liberally; I get the sense that most people don’t even know what they mean when they say, write, or read “new media”.
Whatever “new media” means to you, it absolutely describes the way that we will consume and share information during a time when traditional media outlets (newspapers and magazines) are undergoing great changes.
No one can predict the shape of the new media world, but I have some wishes for it.
Design and usability are top priorities. The Internet is a graveyard of poor design and websites/applications that are difficult to use and navigate. A few gems of great design shine through the muck. Why can’t everyone value and strive for harmonious layout and presentation?
(Pictured at left: Would rainbows exist in a new media world?, by balloon in a sock)
Standards of writing remain. A lot of writing snobs complain that the Internet is to blame for a decline in high-quality writing. My wish for a new media world is for consumers to appreciate, reward, and applaud clear, concise, and interesting writing.
Material waste is reduced. In my perfect new media world, people would waste less paper, have less clutter, be more organized, and find cleaner/more efficient ways to transmit information.
Talent triumphs over status. If you read Gawker regularly, you probably notice that celebrities (or relatives of celebrities) land awesome media internships that normal people like me covet. In my perfect new media world, talented people would get the jobs they deserve.
Consumers value and appreciate information. Consumers, especially those my age (20-somethings), take for granted the fact that most information is available for free. Media professionals work hard to create and produce that content; their work should be celebrated, and they should be appropriately compensated.
(Pictured at right: Media is so great!, by Wonderlane)
Producers are always reevaluating and innovating. Media producers need to keep innovating and thinking outside the box. They need to think about how they can create value and how they can keep their audience interested, engaged, and appreciative.
What do you envision for your perfect new media world?