Puget Sound Biz Journal redesign part of becoming digital first

Rob Smith, the editor of the Puget Sound Business Journal, writes about why the redesign of the American City Business Journals paper incorporates a digital-first approach to breaking news.

Smith writes, “Last month, our website received 1.2 million page views from more than 320,000 unique visitors, an increase of 24 percent from a year ago. More than 130,000 people now read our print edition every month.

“And about those mobile devices: Nearly one-quarter of our readers now read us on their tablets and smartphones. That’s a key reason why we now emphasize digital excellence. We’ve become a digital-first publishing operation to cater to busy executives on the go.

“The rhythm of our newsroom has completely changed from a weekly mentality to an hourly and daily mindset. Our goal is to push news as it breaks.

“We’re also actively engaged in social media. We now have more than 16,000 followers on our Puget Sound Business Journal Twitter account. Reporters and editors constantly use their own Twitter accounts to push news and engage readers.

“Our new print product reflects that. It features more graphics and charts. It features a cover story designed to spur discussion about relevant business issues. It emphasizes making sense of our weekly lists. It highlights the knowledge and authority of Puget Sound Business Journal staff writers, who want to engage with you, our audience.”

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