More paywalls won't save journalists' jobs

Gannett's announcement that it will establish paywalls at its 80 community newspapers  is the latest sign that the newspaper industry believes it has found practical technology to charge for its content. 

But these are not really solutions so much as experiments. Every newspaper will have to test reader response to the various subscription offers and adjust over time. Paying for digital editions is new for subscribers as well as publishers.

How a newsroom is like a hit comedy

If you are running a news organization, you have much in common with the coach of a sports team, the director of a ballet or the producer of a hit comedy. The issues are the same. 

• Motivating people.
• Encouraging creativity.
• Developing people's talent to its highest level.
• Maintaining the discipline to meet deadlines and stay within a budget.
• Continually surprising fans.

So I found the book "Bossypants" by Tina Fey rich with lessons for people whose success depends on organizing and harnessing the talent of creative people. She is famous for her work as a writer and performer on "Saturday Night Live" (Weekend Update, Sarah Palin impression) and as writer, producer and performer on the hit comedy "30 Rock."