The American Press Institute’s “Digital Transformation Guide” offers a comprehensive roadmap for local news organizations striving to navigate the challenges of the modern media landscape. With the number of U.S. local newspapers dwindling from 8,891 in 2005 to 5,591 in 2024, and over 9,500 journalism professionals facing layoffs since 2021, the guide addresses the pressing need for innovative strategies to sustain and grow local journalism.
Drawing from the experiences of more than 200 local news organizations that participated in the Table Stakes Local News Transformation Program between 2015 and 2024, the guide distills proven strategies into five key areas:
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Adopting a Product-Thinking Mindset: Encourages newsrooms to develop products aligned with audience needs, emphasizing continuous innovation and responsiveness.
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Diversifying Revenue: Explores alternative income streams beyond traditional advertising and subscriptions, such as events, memberships, and specialized content offerings.
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Practicing Engaged Journalism: Highlights the importance of building trust through active community engagement and producing journalism that reflects diverse voices and concerns.
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Collaborating Internally and Externally: Advocates for breaking down silos within organizations and forming partnerships with external entities to enhance resource sharing and broaden impact.
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Managing People Through Change: Provides insights into effective change management, focusing on leadership, staff development, and fostering a culture adaptable to industry shifts.
Each section of the guide includes practical resources—such as worksheets and checklists—designed to facilitate the immediate application of these strategies within news organizations. By sharing these tested approaches, the American Press Institute aims to empower local news outlets to thrive amidst ongoing industry transformations.