RPD: All Aboard The Video Express

Ninth in a 2022 Series*

Today’s Relevant exercise: Take a page and divide it into two columns. On one side, list everything you do in print. On the other side, match each item with its conversion to video. For example, turn each posted story into a video in which the reporter summarizes the major findings. Or, with a calendar of events, do a video on the “Pick of the Week.” Or, add an introduction video message from each staffer, instead of just a printed list of names and titles in a box. In you are an association, post a video that’s a shout-out about a member. Inspiration for this transformation came from a recent article on how the Los Angeles Times is turning letters to the editor into videos in which “readers tell their stories.” (I’m sure some community newspapers also are doing this without the inflated fanfare.) The metro has something called L.A. Times Studios for its production. All a community newspaper needs is an iPhone and upload instructions/software. The Times said its letter videos increased reader engagement. It also made the newspaper more hopeful for its future. That’s a Relevance victory, for sure. 

I made this on my iPhone X and followed the posting instructions on the WordPress site. It played when I tested it. Amazing.

Added Note: Learning how to make and post videos is on my 2022 To-Do list. If you are just starting out, you are not alone. Join the club. — Tom Silvestri, Executive Director, The Relevance Project

*ABOUT THE SERIES: Our goal is to share a Relevant Point of the Day (RPD) each weekday throughout 2022. Our target is at least 222 (Note: no zeros). Thank you for supporting The Relevance Project. Your success is our focus.