The power of distribution

It seems that the power of distribution and the convenience of the platforms have become grater than content itself.

Reaching audiences and devices seem to be crucial to any content provider. Social Networks are just open templates that support all kind of disposable messages, including hate and vulgarity.

Using the example of the MP3 format, Robert Capps eloquently argues: “we now favor flexibility over high fidelity, convenience over features, quick and dirty over slow and polished”.

Audiences seem to be ready to sacrifice quality and value other characteristics such as convenience and price when consuming products. Although, cultural or intelectual products could have a different dynamic.

Dr. Chyi has also empirically shown how users consider online news an inferior good as they keep finding more value in traditional media content (tangible?) for reasons that could be related to metal processes or behaviors.

A good example of successful low quality content can be found in YouTube. The participation of the audience in the media space has lower the standards of video quality in that social online platform and throughout the Web.

Convenience and the ability to share light content without restrictions appear to be key elements of success here.

However, journalists, writers and producers continue to believe quality is an important component in the production of content because it contributes to improve societies.

Sometime we can see traces of hope. Vimeo, for example, emerges as a platform for professional videographers. Specialized blogs set the agenda in key areas such as health and finances.