Out & About Newspaper (Publication)

Challenge Summary

Out & About Newspaper is a monthly publication.  The client had a web site that was being updated manually on a monthly basis after the preparation (and distribution) of the print edition.  Articles were submitted to the editor primarily in Microsoft Word format.  The editor transferred the articles into Quark for layout, then forwarded the Word documents to their webmaster, who often took up to two weeks to update the web site.  As a result, their web site reported “old news”.  Out & About came to SBResults initially to assist in expediting this process.

Specific Challenges

• Most staff members are volunteers, who have limited time to work on the newspaper
• Manual billing process created a burden on accounting and processing personnel
• In order to cultivate a viable web presence, the workflow process required extensive changes

Solution

SBResults, LLC recommended a customized online workflow process whereby articles are initiated on the web, allowing OAN to use their web site as their primary means of news delivery, and to convert their monthly print edition into more of a periodical format.  Role-based security allows writers to submit their articles online. The article is automatically forwarded to a regional editor, copyeditor, a content editor, and then to the editor for final review.  Layout of the web site is controlled by the client,by selecting feature articles and assigning starting and ending dates. This eliminates the need for the webmaster to update the site.  The story order for the print edition is managed online and exported to text for import into Quark for layout.  Images are also exported for layout. 

The web layout is fully customizable by the newspaper staff, allowing them to create sections and pages and assign these to the site navigation dynamically.

Additionally, automating the paper’s classified ads allows consumers to submit and pay for ads online.  Online advertising was also automated, increasing revenue and simplifying administration.  Moving the subscription database online allows consumers to subscribe and pay online, and provides production with the monthly distribution for both paid subscriptions and box locations.

Technology and Skills Required