What changes has been brought by the technology in the newspaper industry?

Introduction of the new technology especially two technology such as networking of personal computers (PCs) through LANs (local area networks) and also news making software like Newsmaker and other customised software. All this led to the many changes in the newspaper industry which were as follows:

• The newspaper was fully mechanised as everything from reporter’s desk to final page proof was computerised. Thus, papers were no more used.

• Role and function of the reporter were changed with the change in the use of technology. A shorthand notebook, pen, typewriter, and plain old telephone was the essential tools of the newspaper reporter which was replaced by as been replaced by new tools — a mini tape recorder, a laptop or a PC, mobile or satellite phone, and other accessories like a modem.

• This increased the speed of the news, facilitated or made it easy to complete the deadlines by dawn, planned a greater number of editions and timely provides latest or current news to its readers.

• In fact, regional or language newspapers planned to release a separate edition for each district. Even though print centers were limited, many editions were released.

• For example – newspapers chain like Meerut-based Amar Ujala uses new technology for news gathering and for improving pictorial coverage. They also have a network of nearly a hundred reporters and staffers, photographers, providing news to its 13 editions stretched across Uttar Pradesh and Uttaranchal. A hundred correspondents are set up with PCs, modems for news transmission, and the photographers carry digital cameras. Moreover, to the central news desk, Digital images are sent via modems.