A recent article from the Wall Street Journal highlights the endless decline of newspaper circulations.  Some points worth noting: For the last 6 months the average weekday newspaper circulation dropped almost 11%; the San Francisco Chronicle’s circulation dropped 26% and the Miami Herald’s circulation dropped 23%.  With less revenue due to the loss of circulation/subscription income, publishers must increase ad rates and subscription rates to balance the books.  Unfortunately most publishers fail to see that raising rates isn’t the solution.  Its time for a new approach to their business model.  But is it even possible for the newspaper industry to survive, much less turn things around?  What model could be the answer to a non-digital channel’s pain in the 21st century?  They won’t ever be the medium for late breaking news or two-way communication with their audience (unless you factor in their online properties).  Maybe more in-depth articles, investigative reporting?  Does anyone have the answer?  If so, I’m sure there are a few publishers out there that would like to hear from you.

Eric