Mojos: Pros And Cons

The rapid growth of mobile journalism in the US is outlined in a recent Editor & Publisher article.

Significant numbers of American newspapers are investing in so-called mojo kits so their journalists can get out on the road in search of stories.

So E & P has spoken to editors from across the country to ascertain some of the advantages and disadvantages of the roving remote reporter.

On the plus side, the Fort Myers News-Press editor says creating mojos definitely increases the amount of online material being produced and helps fill the newshole.

Kate Marymont also points out that mojos improve contact between the newsroom and the local community and are able to file stories and visual content fast.

Then there’s the ability to get to places quickly, an advantage illustrated by News-Press mojo Mark Krzos who reveals that he sometimes beats the police to the scene of an incident.

Being in the right place at the right time can also provide mojos with better-than-expected stories.

The fact that Seattle Times mojo Peyton Whitely works from his car most of the time enabled him to get right into the thick of it during a large storm and power outage that paralysed most of the city.

However, not all editors and journalists are convinced about remote reporting and E & P includes some thoughts on the downsides.

Tim Franklin from the Baltimore Sun worries that mojos are missing out on the exchange of ideas and editorial guidance that they can get in the newsroom.

And even ‘mojo convert’ Marymont says the volume of information being filed to the web by mojos can be overwhelming and requires effective organisation.

Plus E & P adds that mojo kits – including laptops, video cameras, audio recorders and mobile phones – hardly come cheap and can cost $14,800 (£7,500) each.

Find out more on this story at E & P.