Espresso Knowledge #45 - The pandemic has increased media usage, but revenues are still down

Researchers analyzed COVID19's effect on Swiss media.

They found people increasingly returning to traditional news media and wanting evidence-based, reliable information.

But the media is having difficulty generating revenue. Only 13% are willing to pay.

The study also found that science reporting is low, covering hardly 2% of all media articles. There is also very little in terms of science commentary and context surrounding scientific studies. This is worrying not just for the current pandemic but for the future.

News diversity is low - reports are covering a diminishing range of topics and geographical areas. Outlets are increasingly sharing their content. 

But there seems to be some hope.

Increasingly, young people - ages 18 to 24 - are willing to pay for news. But they are interested in reports if it fits their identity and community. They prefer news that is audiovisual, easy to understand and compatible with their everyday routines.

Original article:

Corona Crisis Increases Media Usage, Reduces Revenues

Original study:

Yearbook 2020: The Quality of the Media - Main Findings