GQ Magazines

Industries: the appeal of print - blog tasks

Work through the following tasks to complete your work on magazines. You will find the reading gives you a brilliant insight into a vital aspect of media - the power of independent institutions.

1) Writer's Edit journal article

Read this excellent Writer's Edit academic journal article on the independent magazine industry and answer the following questions:

1) What is the definition of an independent print magazine?

An independent print magazine is produced without corporate funding, allowing for freedom and a focus interests.

2) What does Hamilton (2013) suggest about independent magazines in the digital age?

Couldn't find the source

3) Why does the article suggest that independent magazines might be succeeding while global magazine publishers such as Bauer are struggling?

The article suggests that independent magazines do better while Bauer struggle because independents focus on niche audiences with unique content.

4) What does the article suggest about how independent publishers use digital media to target their niche audiences?

The article suggests that independent publishers target digital media for lower costs of promotion.

5) Why is it significant that independent magazines are owned and created by the same people? How does this change the creative process and direction of the magazine?

Independent magazines owned and created by the same people have more freedom and there's less editorial decisions and financial issues.

6) What does the article suggest regarding the benefits of a 'do-it-yourself' approach to creating independent magazines?

The article suggests that the DIY approach of independent magazines creates a sense of ownership, allowing creators to be creative over worrying about mainstream appeal.

7) The article discusses the audience appeal of print. Why might audiences love the printed form in the digital age?

The article suggests print's appeal is because it's almost like a collectors item.

8) What are the challenges in terms of funding and distributing an independent magazine?

Independent magazines face issues like funding and getting noticed in a crowded market.

2) Irish Times feature on independent magazines

Now read this short feature in the Irish Times on the growth of independent magazines and answer the following questions:

1) Why are independent magazines so popular?

Independent magazines are popular due to their niche focus, creative freedom, and quality print.

2) Why is the magazine publishing industry set up to favour the big global conglomerates?

The magazine publishing industry prefers big conglomerates because they have the resources for wider distribution.

3) What does the article suggest regarding finding an audience for an independent magazine?

The article suggests finding an audience for an independent magazine involves seeking a passionate niche community and offering unique content.

4) What are the challenges for magazine distributors?

Magazine distributors face challenges like lower print sales, competition from digital media, and rising costs for printing and delivery.

5) The article suggests that many independent magazines only make money by diversifying into other products. What examples do they give?

The article mentions independent magazines using events, merch, or streams.

3) Interview with Ruth Jamieson

Finally, read this excellent interview with Ruth Jamieson, who has written a book on the renaissance of the independent magazine sector. Answer these three quick questions: 

1) What does Ruth Jamieson suggest about the 'death of print'?

 At the time people still asked, “is print dead?” but it seemed obvious to me that it was very much alive and kicking.

2) What are the common themes for successful independent magazines?

Successful independent magazines often focus on a niche ideas with high-quality content.

3) How many of these aspects can you find in The Gentlewoman?

It focuses on a niche audience (women) with high-quality content.