Analysis: With work, comments can be a worthwhile addition to news sites – Editors Weblog

Alexandra Jaffe on comments associated with online news:

"But most website editors agree: comment boards have too much potential to get rid of them entirely. The comments on an article offer journalists a valuable link to their readers, where readers can guide coverage, point out mistakes, and sometimes offer valuable tips and sources.

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Interactivity is key because news media is a business; newspapers must listen to their readers if they are to keep them as consumers.

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But how can editors ensure that the comments add rather than detract value from the article? News sites and blogs across the web have tried a number of different strategies, but the rules and regulations for online commenting are still in their formative stages. Across the comment boards, there seem to be four overarching themes in comment moderation that will likely shape the future of online commenting: Timing, trust, identity and incentives."

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