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NUJ calls on the Telegraph to engage in consultation as digital strategy accelerates

By Angela Haggerty, Reporter

October 8, 2014 | 3 min read

The NUJ has called on the Telegraph to engage in consultation after it emerged the publisher is planning a dramatic digital-first strategy shift that could see as much as 80 per cent of its resources dedicated to producing digital content.

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Digital: The Telegraph is moving resources further away from print

A report published in the Guardian this week claimed that the Telegraph is accelerating its plan to move into a more digitally-focused publication with significant changes in editorial approach and working structures.

One source told that paper that according to briefings, the title will create a central production department which will filter web content to be used in the print product through a “templatised” system.

Working shifts will change to two a day, one beginning at 6am and one ending at midnight, staff were reportedly told.

In response, the NUJ has called on the Telegraph to engage in consultation with staff to ensure the transition is smooth for journalists at the title.

“The views of journalists must be at the heart of any digital transition strategy,” said Laura Davison, NUJ national organiser. “Protecting and bolstering quality journalism remains paramount or readers will not buy the product, whatever format it’s in.

“These new shifts and working practices will have a big impact on the way Telegraph journalists will be expected to work. There must be meaningful consultation on these changes which also takes account of particular individual circumstances. There are many more questions that need to be answered on the strategy and the NUJ chapel with be meeting to discuss the plans.”

Telegraph Media Group editor in chief Jason Seiken is leading the digital strategy. At the beginning of the year, the Telegraph let former newspaper editor Tony Gallagher go as part of the move towards digital.

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