Live blogs are an important tool when covering unfolding world events and editors need to prioritise what readers can get from them
Russia’s invasion of Ukraine is an example of a fast-moving and high stakes news story, and one where disinformation is a clear risk. The team at The Guardian have spent years developing their strategy for live blogs, including the introduction of a filter to see only key events in a story.
The Guardian’s head of editorial innovation Chris Moran spoke to the Reuters Institute for the Study of Journalism about the thinking that has shaped his team’s work on live-blogging, and some of the key lessons learned so far.
"The levels of audience that a news site deals with in this situation is a responsibility above anything else," says Moran.
This means that journalists and editors should focus on what the audience needs from their coverage, and what they are uniquely positioned to provide, even above short term business aims. He notes: "Some of the changes we’ve made, for example, could conceivably reduce time spent on a page or even reduce click-through rates. Making things more relevant or more accessible can reduce friction for a reader and make the experience better."
If you like our news and feature articles, you can sign up to receive our free daily (Mon-Fri) email newsletter (mobile friendly).
Sign up to receive job alerts of your choice by email, or manage your subscription
Featured recruiter: click to view its vacancies
The UK’s fastest-growing travel trade media brand seeks a full-time, NCTJ-trained journalist to join its busy news team
Subscribe to our newsletter for latest news, tips, jobs and more
End that deadline stress today and find help in our freelance directory
Personal trainer James Hilton has launched a podcast 'Jim's Gym - Inspiring Movement'. James, a specialist in biomechanics and injury recovery from the Cotswolds, runs Jim's Gym, a virtual online space supporting people over 55 to be more active
Our 35th Newsrewired conference will be held 13 May 2025, News UK, London.
Our community of experts gives a heads-up on the most important shifts your newsroom needs to prepare for this year
Conferences and study weeks are fantastic opportunities to get the latest updates on the industry and network with your peers
If you find your social feeds a tad too heavy on men's voices, follow and connect with these fantastic women experts on indie media
How do you move print readers to digital? Are there other ways to hold on to subscribers besides a last-ditch deal?
