Alan Mutter's Reflections of a Newsosaur has to skate a little in recent posts as he weighs in again on the whither-pay issue online, principally because Mutter is a consultant for ViewPass, a technology aiming to develop micropayments for news organizations.
But his two most recent posts, with one to come, offer insight into the emotional and financial issues weighing on the minds of publishers as they determine the viability of shifting content inside a paywall.
Mainly, Mutter notes, it's a question of fear that's holding publishers back --- fear of loss of traffic, of revenue, of competitive position, and even (I suspect) of a reputation for bravery.
Mutter's not been able to disclose all of his insider understanding, due to the conflict he's in as a consultant, but he comes close to leveling with readers about the nature of the dilemma. His posts are good reading, and he promises another instalment shortly on solutions.
But his two most recent posts, with one to come, offer insight into the emotional and financial issues weighing on the minds of publishers as they determine the viability of shifting content inside a paywall.
Mainly, Mutter notes, it's a question of fear that's holding publishers back --- fear of loss of traffic, of revenue, of competitive position, and even (I suspect) of a reputation for bravery.
Mutter's not been able to disclose all of his insider understanding, due to the conflict he's in as a consultant, but he comes close to leveling with readers about the nature of the dilemma. His posts are good reading, and he promises another instalment shortly on solutions.
