Journalism Goes Mobile

In the fast-paced world of journalism, learning how to use new tools is part of being successful. With the passing of each decade, technology advances and redefines journalism.

Today, more and more publishing companies are investing in online content. This is one of the reasons why mobile journalists (or MoJos for short), have become a vital part of nearly every newsroom on the planet. In fact, numerous journalism schools today have been including courses about online journalism into students’ curriculum, including initiatives to cross-train in video and audio editing. The goal is to help modern journalists learn how to deliver high-quality news content on a tight deadline.

Some of the most popular tools of the trade include:

Smartphone

Journalists in the field need to have a clear communication line, in order to be able to disseminate information as quickly as possible. In this day and age, cell phones have become so much more than just an alternative to conventional landlines and payphones.

Smartphones have become a necessity for MoJos. With this tool, the newsroom is always only a phone call away. Journalists can access emails and use mobile web browsers and GPRS systems to stay on top of breaking news and to find their assignment locations. One click of a button and you can capture and upload images for stories, getting new information published in a matter of seconds.

Compact Digital Camera

An article is usually viewed as more convincing if it is published with images. However, due to space limitations, an online gallery is often uploaded as a way to complement the story. MoJos use this tool to supplement photos for their articles, to document stories, and to create slideshows for the audience to peruse.

Digital Audio Recorder

Members of The Press have long been identified with tape recorders. Accuracy is one of the major keys to being a successful journalist, so tape recorders are a great way to make sure the story is straight. Nowadays, MoJos often use this tool in conjunction with a digital camera as a way to bring additional life to a story, making it more lively and compelling.

Digital Camcorder

Though digital cameras can also record a video clip, camcorders usually have many more options in terms of length and quality. The different brands produce a wide variety of options; there are some that have flash memory cameras, hard disks and/or combo digital and tape. Paired with the right tools, MoJos can produce a stronger and more persuasive story by including video.

Laptop with Wireless Connection

Heavy deadlines require MoJos to produce and submit their piece wherever and whenever. This is one reason why a laptop is a vital part of any journalist’s tool bag. Many computer applications can also be used; especially ones that help efficiently expedite the dissemination of information. Just one click and the latest affairs are published online.

Notebook and Pens

When all else fails, it is always good to have a reliable, no-fail back-up plan. Going back to basics has never been far from our reality. Notebooks and pens have always been a reporter’s true partner when conducting interviews, long before the more ‘advanced’ laptops and other gadgets. 

“Knowing the proper tools to use in one’s job can mean the difference between merely getting the job done… and doing a great job.”

-Kirsten E. Silven