Can Twitter take over?

Brian Cox

Brian Cox

bc268208@ohio.edu

News in 140 Characters or Less

Jack Dorsey probably never imagined how expansive the news transmission would be on the Twitter network. Twitter has given media outlets a new, faster way to transmit information. In just five years, Twitter (Twitter's History) has become a destination for finding the breaking news. Millions of people were clued into Osama bin Laden’s death over a tweet. News markets can issue summarized stories—in 140 characters or less— then put a link for the rest of the story. The potential for this type of dissemination is almost endless. The news stations that were once the first stop for information hungry individuals seems archaic in relation to twitter. Twitter’s greatest asset— its speed— may also be its greatest pitfall, however. With the transmission of information just a click away, the chance of making a mistake is relatively easy. That is why editing is key for social media. But what about instances like the bin Laden death where the need for speed is key? Editing for accuracy may ruin the company’s chance of being first on the story. Does speed outweigh accuracy? I’d say no, but a media company’s bank account may argue.

Can Twitter turn Journalists into “People?”

Journalists are always being ridiculed for their apparent disconnect with society. Although journalists are members of our communities, obviously, they always seem to get a bad rap. Social Media has a chance of changing that. Journalists can be more transparent on social media sites (although The Wall Street Journal doesn’t agree) and provide direct feedback from readers. The potential is yet again, unlimited. Unfortunately, some media sources are utilizing cyborgs to do the work of reporters. Although I understand how much work goes into up-keeping social media sites, using cyborgs doesn’t help to fix the negative stigma. That became an issue with the New York Times when they did away with cyborgs for a week. Social media should bring us as journalists closer to our followers, but we can’t start cutting corners.