SOSC 4318: Modes of Communication » 2002-2003 Group Project
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Home | Function | Conventions
| Advantages | Disadvantages
| Evolution | References by Kristy Gerrard and Katrina Wong
However, when analyzing online newspaper sites, there are 5 different
elements with regard to the function/purpose of online sites that
need to be carried out in order to create an effective site. These 5 elements are: 1. CREDIBILITY-Refers to the reputation
of the newspaper because the longer it has been around, the more
faith people have in its reporting. Additionally, this also includes
the use of expert sources such as Reuters or The Associated Press
and if the news is objective, clear and straight to the point. 2. RELIABILITY-Refers to the constant
up to the minute reports and updates of various stories. The content
should reflect vast areas/regions and be of interest to the general
public. 3. USABILITY-Refers to the effective
use of links which allow the reader to easily navigate their own
path through various nodes/stories. Also, indexes, search engines,
archives, headings, bold, clear, concise typography and so on all
aid in the ease of use for the reader. 4. VISUAL APPEAL-Refers to the presentation
of the site which should complement the content, be clutter free
and clean. The incorporation of images, graphics, advertisements,
charts, lists and the like should not be distracting and help with
the attractiveness of the site. 5. PARTICIPATORY-Refers to the users
personal experience within the site. The ability to contact the
reporters, editors and so on in order to give feedback, posting
questions in discussion forums and chat rooms all help with more
interactivity for the user. Each of these 5 elements regarding the function and purpose of
online newspapers help create effective and useful sites for the
audience. An example of exemplary and non-exemplary online newspaper
sites can be seen through a comparison
of The New York Times.com and The Toronto Sun.com. References http://www.thenewyorktimes.com
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