Saturday, December 5
TGO Website - New. Improved. 20% Free.
Don't know if anyone followed the TGO Magazine link on that last posting - but it looks like they've had the decorators in.
A revamped layout and even a RSS feed for lazy sods like me that have largely given up on scurrying around each individual website in which I have an interest.
Then again - perhaps it was just me missing the Makeover Announcement?
Very pretty Cameron.
And a step in the right direction.
Unlike the last Trail Magazine revamp which still feels like it was done by the local school as a community project.
Shudder.
(Edit: the TGO site is marked Beta. Some of the links remain to be sorted & the forum is unavailable - but it seems to have gone live late on Friday; Interesting selection of videos there already!)
Labels: Cameron McNeish, media, TGO Magazine, Trail Magazine
Sunday, June 7
2009: Outdoor Blogs and the 'traditional' press
Those of you who regularly drop by may be aware of my interest in how the outdoor print media meets the continuing influence on their traditional audience from on-line information alternatives & an increasingly fickle TV/Reality Show fed (led?) public.
Times are hard in the publishing industry. Competition from the big High Street combines (e.g. Tesco) & on-line merchandisers (e.g. Amazon) continue to tempt the dwindling UK literate with low cost book offers and special package promotions. The monthly magazine industry is similarly challenged, not on price, but increasingly on specialist content freely available on-line.
In the past I've used the magazine industry's benchmark, the Audit Bureau of Circulations (with due recognition of ABC copyright ownership) to look at how the Outdoor titles are coping.
Here's some thoughts based on the 2008 sales figures. If you'd like to refer back to my 2007 & 2006 pieces please click HERE
Mag: TRAIL
Circulation : 40,531 (2007 - 39,349- 3% rise)
Cost: £3,90 (2007 - £3.70 - 5.4% increase)
Subscription: 37% of copies sold (2007 - 38%) down
Mag: COUNTRY WALKING
Circulation : 44,044 (2007- 44,549 - 1% drop)
Cost: £3.70 (unchanged)
Subscription: 43% of copies sold (2007 - 42%) down
Mag: TGO
Circulation : 9,891 (2007 - 10,705 - 7% drop)
Cost: £3.40 (unchanged)
Subscribers: 33% of copies sold (2007 - 31%) up
Mag: WALK
Circulation : 104,476 (2007 - 105,168 - 1% drop)
Cost: n/a
Subscribers: n/a
Mag: CUMBRIA
Circulation : 12,183 (2007 - 12,505 - 3% drop)
Cost: £2.25 (2007 - £1.99 13% increase)
Subscribers: 58% (2007 - 58%) no change
[Figures for recent new titles (Outdoor & the various Bushcraft magazines) weren't available]
Looking at the Big Three's circulation since 2006 .......
Overall not too bad a position taken as a whole. Not exactly flourishing, but managing to maintain regular readership overall despite cover price increase along the way.
But the disparity between titles is clearly evident.
Rather than rehash past reflection instead I'll pose the question 'Why the differences?'
It can't be directly down magazine content, or format. No doubt you have your own preferred read, but both Trail & TGO have relaunched their format.
Perhaps the ABC figures doesn't include digital copies?
No idea to be frank, but I'd be surprised if that was the case, and even then the numbers concerned can't be that large taken as a percentage of total circulation.
My pet theory, and totally without any real evidence, is down to You; The Prospective Reader.
Or more accurately 'How do you get hold of your monthly mag?'
Both Trail and CW are backed by the conglomerate Bauer Consumer Media who acquired the titles from EMAP in early 2008. Its hugely influential with the number of UK magazine titles it produces right across the spectrum of the UK magazine buying public.
With that comes an effective distribution network, the result of which is your favourite mag, whichever it may be, available from a variety of local stockists, especially the likes of W H Smith, favourite browsing shop of the train/airport lounge.
TGO is part of The Herald and Times Group Magazines, which in turn is owned by the global Newsquest organisation.
Which would lead you to think the distribution of TGO should be similarly widespread across the UK.
But for some reason, possibly related to the Scottish based Herald organisation, TGO has become increasingly difficult to track down here in the south of England (Whether that is the case in such places as the Midlands etc - I'd be interested to hear)
Which means impulse buying of TGO, picked up as a result of browsing the newsstand for something to pass the time, doesn't seem possible. With the result that potential new/regular readership is lost.
I know this is true in my own case as I've resorted to taking a subscription to TGO as I rate it so highly. But as we all know - a subscription is easily lapsed if the renewal arrives around the time that the last couple of issues lacked that specific spark of interest.
All of which makes a difficult balancing act for the TGO editorial team. To stay true to their mag's ethos, whilst having to continually think up fresh new ideas to keep the existing readership keen, whilst limited to their potential audience. And some ideas, taken too far, may actually have the opposite effect.
I'm sure it can't be this simple; And I wish it was truly based on the quality and content of the magazine. But hey ho its an unfair world.
At a time that the mainstream media tell us that more people are taking to Things Outdoors, such disparity in reader numbers is a difficulty that really needs to be resolved. Especially when part of a large corporate super-owner, who's interest is balance sheet rather than passion.
Labels: blog media, TGO Magazine, Trail Magazine
Thursday, May 28
Welsh 3000s - Tut tut Trail Mag
Following my recent piece on Thomas Firbank I'd heard on the grapevine that June's Trail Magazine would include an article on the Welsh 3000s, a challenge originally arising with Firbank and documented in his 1940 book “I Bought A Mountain”.
A pity then that Trail somehow overlooked mentioning the debt owed to Firbank and friends(although Esme gets a slight look in). Instead the focus was more on the opportunity for Trail to become Challenger #1 on Snowdonia Society's 14 Peaks
Err - not a particularly impressive achievement 'Team Trail' if nobody else knows it exists. Especially if that success arrives at the same time as knowledge about the prize.
Whatever.
Happily the Snowdonia Society site provides an accurate history to balance the picture.
Actually, now I come to think about it, much of June's magazine had me spitting. Not least that two of my recent wildcamp areas appeared in their walks section (yes I know they would have done them months before I got there, and at least one is a relatively common area, but it just felt soooooooooooo wrong)
Then there's the article on Wildcamping which left me with a feeling on it all being rather jolly, but also rather off-balance somehow. Especially compared to Dave Mycroft's Outdoors Magic piece on the same subject.
To quote Trail “giving out exact grid references are a no-no because sites tend to get overused, so here are a few grid squares for you to hunt for a spot in”.
Next to a 4 digit grid ref and the name Red Tarn.
Err - the point of wildcamping is camping in the wild. Not watching the party animals whooping it up on the other side of the tarn, having picked up the camp site courtesy of an earlier WHSmith stop on the M6.
Argh!
I give up.
Is it just me who finds Trail Mag rapidly turning into a comic as it tries to ride the current Craze for (cheap) camping breaks?
Especially now the Credit Cr*p has made it all so very trendy in the media at present.
Labels: books, Trail Magazine, Wales
Thursday, July 24
Podcast News
Now my Dartmoor trip write-up is complete (warts and all - but the whole truth whatever you may read elsewhere!) its time to catch up with other news, whilst I chew over a few of the thoughts that popped up over the weekend.
I've an anniversary, of sorts, coming up soon. So perhaps its time for one of my more reflective mumblings. But that's for later.
Today a bit of entertainment for the weekend. Podcast Bob has been at it again.
Firstly there's his exclusive interview with Mick & Gayle fresh from their successful LeJoG trip. I listened to it on my way to Dartmoor, and a few hours later had the good fortune to be speaking to them face to face. The interview is well worth listening to if you don't happen to have them in your living room.
Mick & Gayle LEJOG 2008
(or right click & 'Save Target As' using this link to download)
And hard on its heels Bob has started his reports from the 2008 Friedrichshafen Outdoor Trade Fair. If true to its usual reputation this show sets the trends for the UK outdoor market next year - so get in there first folks.
Friedrichshafen (Part One)
(or right click & 'Save Target As' using this link to download)Labels: LEJOG, Outdoors Show, Trail Magazine
Saturday, March 29
2008: Blogs & the 'traditional' press (Part 2)
I left the first part of this article hanging with a question…
"What about the hard working print journalist, with a network of contacts, providing that essential conduit between manufacturer/organisation and getting their product/news to you the public? If the print press does fade away, surely the quality of the information provided will similarly degrade?"
This reminded me of some material hanging around in my Ideas-Box. Some of these ideas quietly slip into oblivion as their relevancy fades with the passage of time. But this one insisted on being aired. Possibly this was rattling around the emptier recesses of my mind as the first part of this piece laid itself out onto this screen.
So, if I may, a brief diversion off the main track before attempting to weave its relevancy back onto the path.
Nick Davies's Guardian piece (Feb 08) is scathing in his damnation of lazy journalism. Aiming straight between the eyes he charges "our tendency to recycle ignorance is far worse than it was…80% (of articles) …were wholly, mainly or partially constructed from second-hand material, provided by news agencies and by the public relations industry"
In summarising his research based on material covering many years of UK based media he goes even further:
"Where once journalists were active gatherers of news, now they have generally become mere passive processors of unchecked, second-hand material, much of it contrived by PR to serve some political or commercial interest. Not journalists, but churnalists. An industry whose primary task is to filter out falsehood has become so vulnerable to manipulation that it is now involved in the mass production of falsehood, distortion and propaganda"
Very hard words.
The source of his material commissioned from Cardiff University provides some interesting facts:
* 2 out 3 media reports relate back to PR/Press wire sources
* 2/3rds of the typical morning newspaper used the same basic material, with many poorly researched, if at all, and probably not even re-edited or revised
* 49% of stories are straight press feed/wire copy
* 60% of stories rely wholly or mainly on pre-packaged info
In mitigation it is pointed out that a daily newspaper is now three times the size of 20 years ago. And with no corresponding increase in staff the difficulties in filling this additional space can be considerable. Tying the journalist to an office keyboard rather than out news gathering/checking as once was their role.
Damning stuff for the Grub Street of today.
Right, diversion over. Back to the main path.
Let's apply this to the Outdoor Magazine sector. Whilst undoubtedly the economics of the publishing industry cannot avoid the general industry trend (pages up; staff small), those I've encountered manage to maintain an ethical approach to their craft. News itself forms only a small part of each month's copy. The majority of main content requires old style journalism. Gear is reviewed through personal use; Issues are researched, opinions formed and then delivered with a balanced hand. Political agenda, rarely raised, is carefully handled and usually acknowledged in a relatively classless manner, although the Big Landowner v Small Man debate will be aired on occasions, with the magazine taking the Small Man's position.
So hopefully not all is as black as at first suspected.
However underlying much of the content is the reality that most magazines these days survive not through readership numbers but advertising. There's little evidence to suggest a review will be positive just because the manufacturer places Ads in the same magazine. And that's unlike rumours to the contrary made in other publishing sectors. For one, the items concerned are typically of low value when compared to such items as the price of, let's say, a new car.
But still the reality is that gear tests mostly rely on easy and early access to outdoor kit; Regular involvement with the provider's PR, Marketing & Technical teams; And a careful balancing of the feed-provider/information-distributor.
To their credit this is something that the Outdoor publications seem to pull off. Or so it fees as a reader of much of their output over the years. If there is a retail tie-in then its stated, and its rare that any favouritism appears. Impartiality is still a very Big Word amongst the Outdoor Press.
(The main exception I regularly rail against on here is the monthly Trail/British Sugar Industry article. It may be flagged with a suitable warning. But the times I've been part way through the article; Smelt a rat; And paused to check the by-line; Only to realise I'm reading an 'industry information' piece recommending Sugar. That damages the magazine's relationship with me, the reader, each time it happens)
But what of the Blog & Podcast?
Let's get this fact out straight away. We're amateurs. Most Bloggers normally start off with few outdoor 'contacts'. It’s our real day job that provides the money to live and eat, and that's not necessarily involved with any of the Outdoor Industry. Hence content is initially based on what goes on around us, that may catch our interest. What we see, do and think.
As time passes contacts and networks naturally build if so desired. Sometimes within the outdoor retail sector, but more immediately with those Outdoor Organisations we are part of, or become involved, with as our passion and interest takes us further afield.
Often such links bring an opportunity for better gear/issues reports. But here I believe the Outdoor Blogger departs from our print based counterpart.
Most gear reviews require kit bought or borrowed using our own cash. Stuff that interests, that can be put to extend periods of use (and misuse) and reflected on. Sometimes that may be with a degree of natural bias (boots v trail shoes) but mostly reported as a typical customer who's parted with hard £££s, has limited choice, and requires kit to do what it says on the tin.
And if opportunities do arise for such gear to be provided gratis by the outdoor retail industry, those same instincts remain. If something stinks, then the smell will be aired in public. Mitigated with due regard to the source, but unencumbered by too much concern over 'biting the hand that feeds'.
There is no bigger picture to consider. No organisation or income stream to safeguard. And no protection either.
Each individual's Blog is their own personal investment. It can stop, grow, or stagnate on whim. And if the content becomes rabid trash with a marked biased then readership will dwindle; And usually the Blogger's desire to continue declines. (I'll ignore the paparazzi/gossip Blogs here!)
It is certainly helpful to get easier access to equipment, especially if normally unobtainable due to price or availability. But few of us would ever review something because We Must. It is because the item will be of personal interest and curiosity. For we are Owner, Editor, Writer and Publisher all at the same time. We get to choose.
PR/Marketing contacts can undoubtedly ease much of the basic access & research. But for us simple folk any regurgitation of the copy-writer's snake-oil wordage is noticeable. Any product placement that may occur is down to the social and fashion drivers we, as part of the outdoor public, are all subject to. But similarly there are those amongst our number who will regularly go against the prevailing trend. Indeed on any given topic you'll usually find a whole range of opinion, or lack of, across the Outdoor Blogs leaving you as reader to make up your own mind based on a wide discussion of the issues involved.
If you like, it’s the ultimate pub conversation. But readily available on-line from your home most days. And with the option to turn away to another source if the content is uninteresting.
So turning back to the original question "If the print press does fade away, surely the quality of the information provided will similarly degrade?"
Maybe - but is the alternative before you any worse? Or is its delivery & content of more relevance for today's audience?
Time will tell. And also, I suspect, the effect of continuing to maintain a low cost alternative.
The majority of Outdoor Blogs steer clear of carrying any form of income generators (Click through Ads; Google AdSense; Retail links etc) But as the on-line format matures there is the reality for many of us to maintain and improve quality content. And for that the present self-financing will continue to be challenged if it is to develop.
How to do that without losing the hard fought integrity that is being slowly built? I wonder how you as a reader may feel about that? Will we see a ceiling on the type of content provided, limited by cash, time and hobby blog status? Or will Blogs that go beyond this risk becoming too closely compared with the print media's own dilemma? Content v Income Generation = Continued Survival.
Print or on-line its clear the content provider shares many of the same information resources, but not necessarily the same problems. Not yet at least.
The attraction of the established magazine for the Outdoor reader will remain, I'm sure. But the flexibility and variety of the Outdoor Blog scene will continue to grow and exert an influence.
And that leaves you, as the consumer, firmly in the driving seat.
From this Blogger's view that's a Good Thing as your interaction with this medium can directly and quickly influence the content you see far better than any remote Market Survey will ever manage.
Ramble over. Normal service will be resumed with immediate effect.
Labels: blog media, TGO Magazine, Trail Magazine
Wednesday, March 26
2008: Blogs & the 'traditional' press (Part 1)
About a year ago I posted an article considering the impact of outdoor blogs alongside the UK's traditional print magazines. Whilst questioning the role blogs played I concluded that it was an alternative format. One still finding its feet. But also very capable of offering things that the paper press weren't able to deliver - speed of news items, article relevancy, targeted readership.
It's been a busy year since. There's been innovation on the hard copy side with publishers setting up or rebadging magazine websites; Experimenting with podcast, vidcast and digital magazine formats.
Meanwhile the majority of UK based Outdoor Bloggers, coming together under the auspices of the OutdoorBloggers.com have welcomed new members, and provided a strong support network for those seeking to get started, looking to improve their chosen craft, or just happy to be amongst a like minded community. With over 55 members it may not sound huge. But it represents the majority of those in the UK actively blogging on outdoor related matters. Specifically walking/wildcamping, but also including other outdoor interests. And using a range of methods to present the information on-line.
Any regular reader of these blogs could not have failed to notice comprehensive coverage of such things as the Outdoors Show. Providing a level of detail and reflection to a depth that just wouldn't be possible within a magazine issue. And more importantly making it available whilst the information remained fresh and relevant.
Tellingly, what the magazines may have to report is still awaited.
A throw away comment from one blogger made me return to my original piece to remind myself of circulation figures and to confirm the latest position. And all does not look good in print magazine land at present.
Anyone following the Lad's Mags (Maxim, Loaded, FHQ) circulation news will already be aware that their market share has been plummeting as their market audience moves away to other interests.
And whilst the outdoor sphere has always been of a less flighty nature, the comparative figures for 2006 & 2007 are worrying. Once again using the magazine industry's benchmark, the Audit Bureau of Circulations (the little ABC you sometimes see inside the magazine cover) and with due recognition of ABC copyright ownership a quick reprise of the state of the market using 2007 figures against those 2006 representative titles
Mag: TRAIL
Circulation : 39,349 (2006 - 40,552 - 3% drop)
Cost: £3.70 (2006 - £3.50 - 6% increase)
Subscription: 38% of copies sold (2006 - 41% - 3 % drop)
Mag: COUNTRY WALKING
Circulation : 44,549 (2006 - 46,849 - 5% drop)
Cost: £3.70 (2006 - £3.50 - 6% increase)
Subscription: 42% of copies sold (2006 - 43% - 1% drop)
Mag: TGO
Circulation : 10,705 (2006 - 11,368 - 6% drop)
Cost: £3.40 (2006 - £3.30 - 3% increase)
Subscribers: 31% of copies sold (2006 - 38% - 7 % drop)
And the alternative outdoor offerings?
Magazine : WALK
Circulation : 105,168 (2006 - 105,809 - 1% drop)
Cost: n/a
Subscribers: n/a
Magazine : CUMBRIA
Circulation : 12,505 (2006 - 13,043 - 4% drop)
Cost: £1.99 (2006 - £1.85 - 8% increase)
Subscribers: 58% (2006 - 56% - 2 % increase)
Across all titles, even including the Rambler's Association Walk Magazine (part of the membership deal), there has been a loss of readership, accompanied by a loss of subscribers. Except for Cumbria, which I suspect has a huge readership outside of the Lakes, and naturally tends towards subscription for its circulation.
All the magazines, as you’d expect, have had a cover price increase. But that doesn’t appear to directly relate to readership loss with TGO hardest hit despite the lowest price change.
Across the big three UK magazines (Trail; Country Walking; TGO) total readership has dropped from 98,769 to 94,603
Similar figures for blog readership are notoriously difficult to acquire. But here's some rough figures based on average monthly visitors and a variety of different and regularly followed blogs (via RSS feeds- say 10 and 20 blogs)
A minimum audience of 15,000 and a maximum in excess of 30,000.
(But please - this is a very rough estimate based on very little hard fact, just feedback from my own site stats and a few others balanced against repeat visits throughout a "average" month. I wouldn’t want this taken as more than a poor indicator for comparative purposes)
So where has 4% of the 2006 print readership wandered off to? And what does this mean for those newer magazines such as Active Magazine launched back in Feb just in time for the NEC Show?
Perhaps, similar to the advent of multiple digital TV channels the traditional mass audience has started to peel away. To follow stations geared to their own niche interests.
Or possibly, with lifestyle choice and shifting population demographics, the target readership has moved off to other things (But considering the level of mainstream press publicity given to reports on obesity and walking for fitness & good health one should expect the opposite?)
Or perhaps the print magazine is facing an increasingly web enabled audience. One who select their information sources to match their leisure activity niches, at a time and place of their choosing. And one that more immediately meets their need?.
We are constantly reminded that we live in a fast and ever changing world. The expectations of the present generations are radically different from those of only ten years ago.
As an alternative form of information, entertainment & communication 2007 has undoubtedly seen the consolidation of the Outdoor Blog as one format amongst many alternatives. And hopefully those involved have lifted their game to consider both regular readership, but also those coming new to the genre.
So for 2008:
Outdoor Blogs - still an alternative.
Definitely standing upright; And showing commitment to what they deliver.
But the question remains -are they a replacement for the traditional press?
As a committed reader of outdoor magazines, but on a less regular basis than in the past, I hope they continue. But edgy times indeed for those involved in static and cost heavy businesses.
And what about the hard working print journalist, with a network of contacts and providing that essential conduit between manufacturer/organisation and getting their product/news to you the public? If the print press does fade away, surely the quality of the information provided will similarly degrade?
Well - maybe not as much as you would think. A subject I will return to with the concluding part of this piece coming sometime during the next week.
(Well - you think this stuff is quick to produce? There is the day job to consider after all!)Labels: blog media, TGO Magazine, Trail Magazine
Tuesday, March 25
UK Walking Magazine - The Little Death?
As ever, one little teeny weeny Google query seems to have led to another, and another, and .........well you get the general idea by now I'm sure.
There's something rather smelly happening in the UK Outdoor magazine world. Possibly reflective of the traditional print media, as a whole?
More to follow in the next few days once I've dug a little deeper.Labels: blog media, media, TGO Magazine, Trail Magazine
Sunday, March 9
TGO & Trail Magazine; And what's a 'Heat Exchange Mask' then?
Pre the Outdoor Show I decided to take a look at the latest outdoor magazines. Well, when I say take a look what I really mean is buy rather than spend 5 minutes in the local W.H. Smith's library, flicking through the increasingly expensive offerings (well compared to the time it takes me to read them at least!)
I've rather given up on these mags over the winter months as the content had become a little staid.
Trail was easy to locate (WHS naturally) but TGO was a b*gger to chase down. No thanks to the newsagent in the centre of Christchurch who kindly informed me here was "No demand for walking magazines around this area" Well why was I asking for one then? But a similar request at a small shop in Bransgore, after one of my New Forest wanders earlier today turned up both a knowledgeable newsagent, and nice shiny copy.
And happily well worth the search.
I don't know what the team at TGO may have been imbibing recently but the magazine is back on form with a Bang. Entertaining, informative and challenging. And as editor Cameron McNeish intimated in the prerelease vidcast trailer, if Eddy Meechan carries on like he's started off already there's plenty of sparks ready to fly. I had to admit the heat exchange mask made me laugh at first. But then I read the article and thought - well why not? (and AS has his own view here)
And that is what we buy a magazine for surely? To learn and to challenge accepted opinion; And then to make up our own minds.
TGO 1; Trail 0;
No contest.
And that's despite the NEC Blogger Meet-up being publicised as one of the attractions of the Outdoors Show though. Would have been nice to have been asked beforehand? And I guess the Jennings stand may have some thoughts on that one as well. Which we may find out on the day I guess ( Naughty naughty)Labels: media, NEC Outdoors Show, TGO Magazine, Trail Magazine
Monday, August 6
Timeless Flight - A second bite
And whilst I'm playing catch-up on recent articles, there has been some thoughtful responses about the status of Outdoor magazines.
Lighthiker made an interesting point, which I've heard before, and would mostly agree with. But I think there's more to it than at first glance:
"People have the idea that the Internet is "free" and wouldn't pay for a subscription of a website the same price they pay for the printed magazine. And to some extent I also need to blame bloggers like myself. I post about gear. I make no money out of it and people can read it for free. So if they find the info they want let's say about the latest tents on my blog or others why buying a printed magazine? The only thing that can make a difference would be big in-depth tests and some kind of premium (and I mean premium) content which differs them from what is available for free online. ................ Not many advertisers would move online as their ad will be easier overlooked/clicked away and magazines can't charge them the same rates for online advertising compared to the printed version.Things might change over time when the Internet becomes so cheap and accessible that everybody can use it all the time at every place and the reading habits change also. It will come but probably is 5-10 years from now"
I'd especially agree on the "Internet= Free" model. Would Podcast Bob's excellent output have the same appeal if the podcasts were chargeable? An issue I know Bob continues to tussle with.
For these sort of things I always look to the prime example of supply and demand in action. One of the oldest commercial concerns in the communication medias. It was straight in there as soon as the pictures and the written word started to be used for mass communication.
It is of course the Sex Industry.
Whatever your personal feelings about the product for sale their providers work in one of the strongest surviving markets. And one of the most cut throat and pressured. It is one that's continued to survive despite the attempts of law, social disapproval and religious stricture. Sex sells, as advertisers spend so many dreary millions of $$$$ trying hard to avoid telling us (subtle ads; trick story lines; subliminal messages etc)
But as an industry they are very early adopters in communication and retail environments.
And much as Playboy print magazine of the 50s eventually became a household name, a designer label, and a mult media industry, the modern day spawn of the porn sites were on the net early, and have tried most of the tricks in the book to make websites pay. Even inventing a few new ones along the way, some legitimate, some particularly odious.
Ditto digital TV/view on demand etc - a marketplace in which the big corporations are still very much feeling their way at present.
BTW I'm not suggesting that we should try to make too close a comparison between the outdoor industry here!
But consider some key elements from that sphere.........
- The way in which the print format has adopted certain facets of the digital media, whilst still retaining some of the traditional format, for non adopters, but with a revised demand model and pricing structure.
- The adoption of real time information feeds e.g. webcam
- Interaction with the demand points i.e. Joe Public via a variety of alternatives (e.g. mobile phones)
- Free site content as a loss leader to a subscription model
- Ease of use
- E-tail spin-off business targeting a High Street audience, without the legislative issues or premise overhead. Or the social disapproval.
...... etc etc
I'm no expert in this area- no honestly! But any one who has experienced the Internet for more than a simple usage quickly finds it difficult to avoid a variety of content delivery all trying their independent methods of making that elusive buck. The sex/porn industry, despite its lack of general social acceptability (in fact possibly because of that?) has been by far the one with the most widespread impact globally across the web. And one of the biggest money takers I suspect.
As I said earlier. Watch the model, not the product. Some sales will always be easier. Some models less complex.
But learn from the successful and adapt to your own concern.
"It will come but probably is 5-10 years from now"
I'd say that's already here for some retailers. The question is whether established product providers adopt, adapt, or maybe even just avoid. Labels: blog media, TGO Magazine, Trail Magazine
Friday, August 3
Timeless Flight. Have Outdoor Magazines met their nadir?
An unexpected delay on my flight back during a business trip earlier today gave me the dubious opportunity to sit in Liverpool Airport reading the September copy of Trail magazine.
Dubious?
Well with rather too many long hours to while away there was a temptation to read and reread the magazine sat in my lap. Or even to critically assess the content, presentation and format. Which is a little unfair on my part really because Trail Magazine is honestly not that sort of reading material. It never pretends to be a 'work of art' for critical analysis, but a monthly outdoor mag ("The UK's biggest selling hill-walking magazine") to provide information whilst remaining entertaining.
And as I sit here tip-tip-tapping into my faithful Psion 5, the flight has just been called (finally), so I'd better make this a very quick round-up, and clean it up back at home (which I'm now doing)
I'd have to say that Trail is not only a little light on content, but is starting to lay itself open to the accusation of being noticeably dated with some articles. For instance - a couple of references to Steve Perry's charity trip (aborted prematurely at the start of last week), a circular route over Caldbeck Fells the pictures showing a frozen landscape (so how long ago was that trip then?)
I do appreciate the unavoidable delay between putting the issue to bed, and distributing the printed article to the retailer. But how long is the delay, and does it remain acceptable these days? After all newspapers appear each morning based on the previous day's happenings.
I assume the advantage of delayed release for magazines is more financially motivated, but how long are we talking here?
But I digress. Back to the plot JH.
I'd forgive the Perry ref as just being one of those timing things, but in general the relevancy if some articles is becoming an issue these days with 3-4 month article lead times appearing quite common. And news? Well it isn't really. As Perry's mishap unintentionally proved.
I'm sure if I looked a little closer I'd discover this is not an issue limited just to Trail, or even the Outdoor magazine sector. Why as a reading public are we paying highish prices (Trail-£3.50) for something that is not necessarily a reflection of the season and outdoor experiences we ourselves are having?
Or to put it another way. Why on the 3rd day of August am I reading a magazine marked September, but based on articles compiled, at my guess, sometime in March/April? A six month gap?
I repeat this is not aimed at Trail magazine per se. That esteemed publishing team continue to attract a strong readership so are obviously meeting a demand from numerous readers. But there comes a point when the accumulation of the cost for three or four months mags may be better spent on (say) a reference/route guide to Scotland in a book form. And that at least would be something I'd keep and use later. As opposed to stockpiling old mags for years, and finally throwing them away finding no-one else to take them on. That was a moment of satori, and a weight off the attic woodwork, when I realised I'd never referred to one back issue in all the time I'd kept them. Not once.
Well that may say more about me, or what I expect these days from the publishing industry.
Even the on-line version of TGO took a couple of days to post about Steve Perry, although I suspect they were waiting for comment from Steve himself.
Or perhaps I'm becoming more demanding as an increasing amount of news and reviews are via websites, outdoor forums, and yes you've guess it - Blogs. All immediate medias. Quality and veracity of course varying tremendously. But a cross section of views and feedback offers me much more of a consensus view. And usually some come back to the individuals concerned.
But mostly I expect to read far more critical and detailed reviews, based on real life use, on the net. There's no advertiser's to be wary of (and no matter how independent the mag that is always a consideration to some extent. It's only human nature after all) There are expectations to this of course - Judy Armstrong/Chris Townsend being very good at calling a spade a spade where it counts.
But it does look like the outdoor magazine is these days becoming more of a......?
Well to be honest I'm not too sure what they are at the moment. And where they fit into the future of media/audience communication.
But at the moment I can't help but feel that something is slipping away from some sectors of the magazine industry.
Once I read the essential monthly copy for information. For new ideas. For education. Now I buy as something to while away a quick twenty or thirty minute journey. Something lightweight.
And before someone points out my previous posts, all based on regular purchase of said items .... the reason I continue to buy Trail and TGO? (subscription just lapsed BTW) Part relevancy to the interests I have on this blog site and part optimism that things will improve.
Occasionally I uncover a gem. Sometimes an article is relevant to my needs. But mostly I end up dissatisfied. A feeling that there has to be more. And as any retailer understands. If you fail to satisfy the punter properly, forget any return trade.
So finally an appeal. Can anyone in any part of the press/print industry throw some light on this at all? (Whether privately or publicly)
I'd even be interested in meeting/visiting any of the mags/editorial teams in an effort to better understand the realities at first hand.
This ones bugging me. I can feel a chill wind blowing and I'd like to see which bugger has left the privy door open.Or is it the new wave blowing on by?
Labels: blog media, TGO Magazine, Trail Magazine
Tuesday, July 10
August Trail items
A couple of quick highlights after just finishing August's copy of Trail Magazine.
Again loads of content, but it tends to dissipate when looking for real detail , or perhaps that's just me expecting too much insight from what is a general outdoor readership mag after all.
An interesting wildcamping article, a little spoilt by 3 up in a tent. I could see the idea behind the article to persuade more women to enjoy the experience, but not the ideal way to be introduced to the concept of "carry light, travel far"
.......first get your great big heavy three (wo)man tent ..............you get the idea.
But to the things that caught my eye:
There's a link to courses run by the Institute of Public Rights of Way, to help manage rights of way issues. I adopted several local footpaths myself many years ago, the premise being walk them regularly to keep legal access rights fresh, and report back on obstructions. I also kept the way marking up, a constant challenge where path and housing estates converge.
On the whole the experience has been positive, although the approach of individual councils tends to vary dependant on their attitude, the location, and more importantly their available budget.
Yet another good reason for some local walking though.
Secondly a quick heads up ..........
If you happen to be planning a camp outdoors 23 July then look to the night sky when the Perseids meteor shower starts, for about a month. Peak time is supposed to be the 12th August, when I know one group of bloggers in particular will hopefully be away from all light pollution, looking to the sky.
One for the diary. Let's hope the weather accommodates accordingly.Labels: Trail Magazine
Sunday, July 1
Trail Challenge over & Keswick's George Fisher sold
It's interesting how one thing can lead to another, and another, and ... etc etc
I was checking the progress of the Trail Magazine Academy trio. Sarah writes: "The Trail thing is now officially over, and looking at the write up of the last expedition in the magazine, I’m quite glad I didn’t go. Looks like they walked a long way carrying a lot of kit and had a very uncomfortable night. I love the outdoors, and I enjoy camping, but I don’t believe in making things even more difficult for yourself! It’s a shame it’s over, and I appear to be the one who got the least out of it, but such is life"
Whatever Trail's intentions on the exercise it looks like some of the backpacking ethos & practice possibly didn't rub off in quite the way it was intended.
And as for the other two guinea pigs. Emma had a proposal of marriage, and Sian found out she was nearly pregnant, for a short while. It all seems to happen on these Trail programs doesn't it!
But they all seemed to have enjoyed the experience, and thanks to Sarah's blog for the tip off concerning the new Trail Gear Blog, which coincidentally appeared to to have hit the web around the time the repackaged TGO Forum/Blogsite was rolled out. Is that's what's called a spoiler in the press trade? Surely not.
As I was checking the links for this post I spotted this piece of recent news concerning the takeover of the highly regarded George Fisher shop in Keswick by the Tiso Group. Trail's news report is here.
Normally this sort of news would have appeared on the outdoor forums, but not a sniff that I've spotted so far. And nothing on GF's own site either (So does that count as a blogger scoop WD?)
As to the news, one commenter has positive comments on Tiso in Edinburgh(Tiso is largely unknown south of the Scottish border) so hopefully GF's excellent service and stocking policy will continue into the future.
And of course the web cam.Labels: blog media, Gear, Lake District, TGO Magazine, Trail Magazine
Wednesday, June 6
TGO website
The new TGO site is now up and running, and quickly filling with high quality content. Highly recommended
(Damn - that's more stuff to read on-line)
The main question - how will the TGO on-line version differ in content from the TGO print version?
I'm looking forward an interesting few months as I was aware Cameron had a 'pack full of ideas, and it's good to see the initiative starting to come into flower. Best of luck.
It'll be interesting to see how Trail/Country Walking respond to this initiative from Cameron's team, bearing in mind the content of some of the recent topics covered. Only coincidental I'm sure.Labels: TGO Magazine, Trail Magazine
Wednesday, May 2
Trail Post - Interesting Response
Hhhmmmm. Interesting.
Visits to this site more than doubled following a couple of comments I left on OM concerning the value of Trail's piece on 'Lightweight Lakes'. All looking at this post.
None felt the need to leave a comment. But the interest level leads me to suspect I may have hit a sympathetic nerve.
Discuss?Labels: blog media, Trail Magazine
Monday, April 30
Trail Magazine - June
Another month, another well laid trap to fall into. Again.
Curses! Clever these publishers. I should have learnt my lesson by now.
Lots of lovely articles to dig into, but once again a sense of deflation. Why is that? A quick glance at the articles:
- Good bit on the new via ferrata route at Honister Hause slate mine
- 'Get into wildcamping' Nice try, but bullet points on a single page - give me a break!
- Philosophy of Lightweight. Interesting, but more content, less double page pictures
- Essential equipment - Ha ha. Got me going there. I was half way through the article before I read 'an adequate supply of water is essential but insufficient' What on earth? Oh right - a sponsored article by the Sugar Bureau aka Designer drinks good; Water bad. Naughty. Very naughty
- Sub 2k tents - reasonable article.
- How to buy a soft shell - with the lead-in stating ".....which is why you need one" Oh. And there's me without one. Heresy. A quick scour of the article and I finally found the answer. In small text. On a green background. Still got no real idea why I 'must' have one. A pity it came across as an order. I don't react well to that sort of approach. Sloppy journalism on an otherwise good article though.
- Eiger history- great bit, this is more like it.
And so on..........
One thought as I dropped it in the recycle rack (after only 1/2 hour reading this month) was a topic that seem to mirror some of my older blog posts (e.g. Walks/Public transport)
Now I've got no monopoly on that idea. After all it's been around for years, but I do recall trying to explain how easily it can be achieved and why. A bit strange to see the number of routes labelled as Public Transport. When did that first start popping up?
This months cover price£3.50; Or £7.00 an hour at my interest level.
And you have this blog all for free. Peachy
Labels: Trail Magazine
Thursday, April 5
TGO, Trail (and the Outdoor Show?)
I'd just finished off May's issue of Trail magazine when postie dropped my copy of TGO onto the doormat. So once more a comparative response due to an accident of timing.
I'd been tempted into buying Trail for the second month in a row by the cover's teaser headings, and a very quick thumb thru before purchase.
It looked good in the shop. But once more I found that I rapidly skipped through it, the chopped-up page layout making it more of a 'dip-into' style, rather than any sort of absorbing read.
But again I felt left with an unsatisfied feeling, and no real reaction to most of the articles, beyond what I've already said about sponsored articles.
The Brecon Beacons routes stuff was ok; Oh and I'll definitely cross a visit to the Dove Crag's Priest's Hole Cave off my list for several months. It wasn't the biggest secret in the Lakeland walks world, but it will attract too much attention now its been included as just another 'great night away'. This Easter weekend should be fun - lol (Just grateful that the other spots I know were overlooked. But perhaps that's why I found them in the first place and continue to use them. Not intended as elitism on my part, more my more solitary enjoyment of the fellside)
TGO was a bit more thought provoking.
For once Jim Perrin's stuff grabbed me, and I wanted to read to the end of his article.
Chris Townsend (as always) delivered the goods, with a thoughtful look at lightweight clothing systems. His point, as I took it, being more about approach to use and mix of clothing, rather than a formulaic Gear A plus Gear B plus Gear C = result. I've already used this mindset successfully last year, shaving pounds of my pack weight by losing the fleece with adding a windproof (Montane Lite-Speed - a real find)
So with both mags put aside, I suddenly realised - not one report about the NEC Outdoors Show in mid April?
Plenty of press beforehand, but no post show round-up? Perhaps the deadline dates for May's copy was too early for the show report, but it leads me to a point I've raised before about one of the roles of the (for want of a better phrase) 'new media'.
The various UK Outdoors Bloggers that attended reported on the event on the day, or within a few days.
The copy may have been at times opinionated and possibly even amateurish, but it did represent a timely man-in-the-street response to what was on offer.
Andy Howell delayed release of the multi podcast reports until earlier this week, possibly while he waited for the return of his technical support guru? (p.s. AH -is the podzine web page detail right, it seems to talk about Harrogate 2006 fair?). Check here if you want to download free of charge.
But from the mags I've read, a recognisable source used by most of the outdoor walking fraternity - nothing. (Anyone out there in magazine world care to respond?)
As I've said before, on-line media is complimentary to established publishing methodology.
But hey sometimes we bloggers do have a definite edge.
Labels: TGO Magazine, Trail Magazine, UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
All site material © John Hee - ask before you snatch
A revamped layout and even a RSS feed for lazy sods like me that have largely given up on scurrying around each individual website in which I have an interest.
Then again - perhaps it was just me missing the Makeover Announcement?
Very pretty Cameron.
And a step in the right direction.
Unlike the last Trail Magazine revamp which still feels like it was done by the local school as a community project.
Shudder.
(Edit: the TGO site is marked Beta. Some of the links remain to be sorted & the forum is unavailable - but it seems to have gone live late on Friday; Interesting selection of videos there already!)
Labels: Cameron McNeish, media, TGO Magazine, Trail Magazine
2009: Outdoor Blogs and the 'traditional' press
Those of you who regularly drop by may be aware of my interest in how the outdoor print media meets the continuing influence on their traditional audience from on-line information alternatives & an increasingly fickle TV/Reality Show fed (led?) public.
Times are hard in the publishing industry. Competition from the big High Street combines (e.g. Tesco) & on-line merchandisers (e.g. Amazon) continue to tempt the dwindling UK literate with low cost book offers and special package promotions. The monthly magazine industry is similarly challenged, not on price, but increasingly on specialist content freely available on-line.
In the past I've used the magazine industry's benchmark, the Audit Bureau of Circulations (with due recognition of ABC copyright ownership) to look at how the Outdoor titles are coping.
Here's some thoughts based on the 2008 sales figures. If you'd like to refer back to my 2007 & 2006 pieces please click HERE
Mag: TRAIL
Circulation : 40,531 (2007 - 39,349- 3% rise)
Cost: £3,90 (2007 - £3.70 - 5.4% increase)
Subscription: 37% of copies sold (2007 - 38%) down
Mag: COUNTRY WALKING
Circulation : 44,044 (2007- 44,549 - 1% drop)
Cost: £3.70 (unchanged)
Subscription: 43% of copies sold (2007 - 42%) down
Mag: TGO
Circulation : 9,891 (2007 - 10,705 - 7% drop)
Cost: £3.40 (unchanged)
Subscribers: 33% of copies sold (2007 - 31%) up
Mag: WALK
Circulation : 104,476 (2007 - 105,168 - 1% drop)
Cost: n/a
Subscribers: n/a
Mag: CUMBRIA
Circulation : 12,183 (2007 - 12,505 - 3% drop)
Cost: £2.25 (2007 - £1.99 13% increase)
Subscribers: 58% (2007 - 58%) no change
[Figures for recent new titles (Outdoor & the various Bushcraft magazines) weren't available]
Looking at the Big Three's circulation since 2006 .......
Overall not too bad a position taken as a whole. Not exactly flourishing, but managing to maintain regular readership overall despite cover price increase along the way.
But the disparity between titles is clearly evident.
Rather than rehash past reflection instead I'll pose the question 'Why the differences?'
It can't be directly down magazine content, or format. No doubt you have your own preferred read, but both Trail & TGO have relaunched their format.
Perhaps the ABC figures doesn't include digital copies?
No idea to be frank, but I'd be surprised if that was the case, and even then the numbers concerned can't be that large taken as a percentage of total circulation.
My pet theory, and totally without any real evidence, is down to You; The Prospective Reader.
Or more accurately 'How do you get hold of your monthly mag?'
Both Trail and CW are backed by the conglomerate Bauer Consumer Media who acquired the titles from EMAP in early 2008. Its hugely influential with the number of UK magazine titles it produces right across the spectrum of the UK magazine buying public.
With that comes an effective distribution network, the result of which is your favourite mag, whichever it may be, available from a variety of local stockists, especially the likes of W H Smith, favourite browsing shop of the train/airport lounge.
TGO is part of The Herald and Times Group Magazines, which in turn is owned by the global Newsquest organisation.
Which would lead you to think the distribution of TGO should be similarly widespread across the UK.
But for some reason, possibly related to the Scottish based Herald organisation, TGO has become increasingly difficult to track down here in the south of England (Whether that is the case in such places as the Midlands etc - I'd be interested to hear)
Which means impulse buying of TGO, picked up as a result of browsing the newsstand for something to pass the time, doesn't seem possible. With the result that potential new/regular readership is lost.
I know this is true in my own case as I've resorted to taking a subscription to TGO as I rate it so highly. But as we all know - a subscription is easily lapsed if the renewal arrives around the time that the last couple of issues lacked that specific spark of interest.
All of which makes a difficult balancing act for the TGO editorial team. To stay true to their mag's ethos, whilst having to continually think up fresh new ideas to keep the existing readership keen, whilst limited to their potential audience. And some ideas, taken too far, may actually have the opposite effect.
I'm sure it can't be this simple; And I wish it was truly based on the quality and content of the magazine. But hey ho its an unfair world.
At a time that the mainstream media tell us that more people are taking to Things Outdoors, such disparity in reader numbers is a difficulty that really needs to be resolved. Especially when part of a large corporate super-owner, who's interest is balance sheet rather than passion.
Labels: blog media, TGO Magazine, Trail Magazine
Thursday, May 28
Welsh 3000s - Tut tut Trail Mag
Following my recent piece on Thomas Firbank I'd heard on the grapevine that June's Trail Magazine would include an article on the Welsh 3000s, a challenge originally arising with Firbank and documented in his 1940 book “I Bought A Mountain”.
A pity then that Trail somehow overlooked mentioning the debt owed to Firbank and friends(although Esme gets a slight look in). Instead the focus was more on the opportunity for Trail to become Challenger #1 on Snowdonia Society's 14 Peaks
Err - not a particularly impressive achievement 'Team Trail' if nobody else knows it exists. Especially if that success arrives at the same time as knowledge about the prize.
Whatever.
Happily the Snowdonia Society site provides an accurate history to balance the picture.
Actually, now I come to think about it, much of June's magazine had me spitting. Not least that two of my recent wildcamp areas appeared in their walks section (yes I know they would have done them months before I got there, and at least one is a relatively common area, but it just felt soooooooooooo wrong)
Then there's the article on Wildcamping which left me with a feeling on it all being rather jolly, but also rather off-balance somehow. Especially compared to Dave Mycroft's Outdoors Magic piece on the same subject.
To quote Trail “giving out exact grid references are a no-no because sites tend to get overused, so here are a few grid squares for you to hunt for a spot in”.
Next to a 4 digit grid ref and the name Red Tarn.
Err - the point of wildcamping is camping in the wild. Not watching the party animals whooping it up on the other side of the tarn, having picked up the camp site courtesy of an earlier WHSmith stop on the M6.
Argh!
I give up.
Is it just me who finds Trail Mag rapidly turning into a comic as it tries to ride the current Craze for (cheap) camping breaks?
Especially now the Credit Cr*p has made it all so very trendy in the media at present.
Labels: books, Trail Magazine, Wales
Thursday, July 24
Podcast News
Now my Dartmoor trip write-up is complete (warts and all - but the whole truth whatever you may read elsewhere!) its time to catch up with other news, whilst I chew over a few of the thoughts that popped up over the weekend.
I've an anniversary, of sorts, coming up soon. So perhaps its time for one of my more reflective mumblings. But that's for later.
Today a bit of entertainment for the weekend. Podcast Bob has been at it again.
Firstly there's his exclusive interview with Mick & Gayle fresh from their successful LeJoG trip. I listened to it on my way to Dartmoor, and a few hours later had the good fortune to be speaking to them face to face. The interview is well worth listening to if you don't happen to have them in your living room.
Mick & Gayle LEJOG 2008
(or right click & 'Save Target As' using this link to download)
And hard on its heels Bob has started his reports from the 2008 Friedrichshafen Outdoor Trade Fair. If true to its usual reputation this show sets the trends for the UK outdoor market next year - so get in there first folks.
Friedrichshafen (Part One)
(or right click & 'Save Target As' using this link to download)Labels: LEJOG, Outdoors Show, Trail Magazine
Saturday, March 29
2008: Blogs & the 'traditional' press (Part 2)
I left the first part of this article hanging with a question…
"What about the hard working print journalist, with a network of contacts, providing that essential conduit between manufacturer/organisation and getting their product/news to you the public? If the print press does fade away, surely the quality of the information provided will similarly degrade?"
This reminded me of some material hanging around in my Ideas-Box. Some of these ideas quietly slip into oblivion as their relevancy fades with the passage of time. But this one insisted on being aired. Possibly this was rattling around the emptier recesses of my mind as the first part of this piece laid itself out onto this screen.
So, if I may, a brief diversion off the main track before attempting to weave its relevancy back onto the path.
Nick Davies's Guardian piece (Feb 08) is scathing in his damnation of lazy journalism. Aiming straight between the eyes he charges "our tendency to recycle ignorance is far worse than it was…80% (of articles) …were wholly, mainly or partially constructed from second-hand material, provided by news agencies and by the public relations industry"
In summarising his research based on material covering many years of UK based media he goes even further:
"Where once journalists were active gatherers of news, now they have generally become mere passive processors of unchecked, second-hand material, much of it contrived by PR to serve some political or commercial interest. Not journalists, but churnalists. An industry whose primary task is to filter out falsehood has become so vulnerable to manipulation that it is now involved in the mass production of falsehood, distortion and propaganda"
Very hard words.
The source of his material commissioned from Cardiff University provides some interesting facts:
* 2 out 3 media reports relate back to PR/Press wire sources
* 2/3rds of the typical morning newspaper used the same basic material, with many poorly researched, if at all, and probably not even re-edited or revised
* 49% of stories are straight press feed/wire copy
* 60% of stories rely wholly or mainly on pre-packaged info
In mitigation it is pointed out that a daily newspaper is now three times the size of 20 years ago. And with no corresponding increase in staff the difficulties in filling this additional space can be considerable. Tying the journalist to an office keyboard rather than out news gathering/checking as once was their role.
Damning stuff for the Grub Street of today.
Right, diversion over. Back to the main path.
Let's apply this to the Outdoor Magazine sector. Whilst undoubtedly the economics of the publishing industry cannot avoid the general industry trend (pages up; staff small), those I've encountered manage to maintain an ethical approach to their craft. News itself forms only a small part of each month's copy. The majority of main content requires old style journalism. Gear is reviewed through personal use; Issues are researched, opinions formed and then delivered with a balanced hand. Political agenda, rarely raised, is carefully handled and usually acknowledged in a relatively classless manner, although the Big Landowner v Small Man debate will be aired on occasions, with the magazine taking the Small Man's position.
So hopefully not all is as black as at first suspected.
However underlying much of the content is the reality that most magazines these days survive not through readership numbers but advertising. There's little evidence to suggest a review will be positive just because the manufacturer places Ads in the same magazine. And that's unlike rumours to the contrary made in other publishing sectors. For one, the items concerned are typically of low value when compared to such items as the price of, let's say, a new car.
But still the reality is that gear tests mostly rely on easy and early access to outdoor kit; Regular involvement with the provider's PR, Marketing & Technical teams; And a careful balancing of the feed-provider/information-distributor.
To their credit this is something that the Outdoor publications seem to pull off. Or so it fees as a reader of much of their output over the years. If there is a retail tie-in then its stated, and its rare that any favouritism appears. Impartiality is still a very Big Word amongst the Outdoor Press.
(The main exception I regularly rail against on here is the monthly Trail/British Sugar Industry article. It may be flagged with a suitable warning. But the times I've been part way through the article; Smelt a rat; And paused to check the by-line; Only to realise I'm reading an 'industry information' piece recommending Sugar. That damages the magazine's relationship with me, the reader, each time it happens)
But what of the Blog & Podcast?
Let's get this fact out straight away. We're amateurs. Most Bloggers normally start off with few outdoor 'contacts'. It’s our real day job that provides the money to live and eat, and that's not necessarily involved with any of the Outdoor Industry. Hence content is initially based on what goes on around us, that may catch our interest. What we see, do and think.
As time passes contacts and networks naturally build if so desired. Sometimes within the outdoor retail sector, but more immediately with those Outdoor Organisations we are part of, or become involved, with as our passion and interest takes us further afield.
Often such links bring an opportunity for better gear/issues reports. But here I believe the Outdoor Blogger departs from our print based counterpart.
Most gear reviews require kit bought or borrowed using our own cash. Stuff that interests, that can be put to extend periods of use (and misuse) and reflected on. Sometimes that may be with a degree of natural bias (boots v trail shoes) but mostly reported as a typical customer who's parted with hard £££s, has limited choice, and requires kit to do what it says on the tin.
And if opportunities do arise for such gear to be provided gratis by the outdoor retail industry, those same instincts remain. If something stinks, then the smell will be aired in public. Mitigated with due regard to the source, but unencumbered by too much concern over 'biting the hand that feeds'.
There is no bigger picture to consider. No organisation or income stream to safeguard. And no protection either.
Each individual's Blog is their own personal investment. It can stop, grow, or stagnate on whim. And if the content becomes rabid trash with a marked biased then readership will dwindle; And usually the Blogger's desire to continue declines. (I'll ignore the paparazzi/gossip Blogs here!)
It is certainly helpful to get easier access to equipment, especially if normally unobtainable due to price or availability. But few of us would ever review something because We Must. It is because the item will be of personal interest and curiosity. For we are Owner, Editor, Writer and Publisher all at the same time. We get to choose.
PR/Marketing contacts can undoubtedly ease much of the basic access & research. But for us simple folk any regurgitation of the copy-writer's snake-oil wordage is noticeable. Any product placement that may occur is down to the social and fashion drivers we, as part of the outdoor public, are all subject to. But similarly there are those amongst our number who will regularly go against the prevailing trend. Indeed on any given topic you'll usually find a whole range of opinion, or lack of, across the Outdoor Blogs leaving you as reader to make up your own mind based on a wide discussion of the issues involved.
If you like, it’s the ultimate pub conversation. But readily available on-line from your home most days. And with the option to turn away to another source if the content is uninteresting.
So turning back to the original question "If the print press does fade away, surely the quality of the information provided will similarly degrade?"
Maybe - but is the alternative before you any worse? Or is its delivery & content of more relevance for today's audience?
Time will tell. And also, I suspect, the effect of continuing to maintain a low cost alternative.
The majority of Outdoor Blogs steer clear of carrying any form of income generators (Click through Ads; Google AdSense; Retail links etc) But as the on-line format matures there is the reality for many of us to maintain and improve quality content. And for that the present self-financing will continue to be challenged if it is to develop.
How to do that without losing the hard fought integrity that is being slowly built? I wonder how you as a reader may feel about that? Will we see a ceiling on the type of content provided, limited by cash, time and hobby blog status? Or will Blogs that go beyond this risk becoming too closely compared with the print media's own dilemma? Content v Income Generation = Continued Survival.
Print or on-line its clear the content provider shares many of the same information resources, but not necessarily the same problems. Not yet at least.
The attraction of the established magazine for the Outdoor reader will remain, I'm sure. But the flexibility and variety of the Outdoor Blog scene will continue to grow and exert an influence.
And that leaves you, as the consumer, firmly in the driving seat.
From this Blogger's view that's a Good Thing as your interaction with this medium can directly and quickly influence the content you see far better than any remote Market Survey will ever manage.
Ramble over. Normal service will be resumed with immediate effect.
Labels: blog media, TGO Magazine, Trail Magazine
Wednesday, March 26
2008: Blogs & the 'traditional' press (Part 1)
About a year ago I posted an article considering the impact of outdoor blogs alongside the UK's traditional print magazines. Whilst questioning the role blogs played I concluded that it was an alternative format. One still finding its feet. But also very capable of offering things that the paper press weren't able to deliver - speed of news items, article relevancy, targeted readership.
It's been a busy year since. There's been innovation on the hard copy side with publishers setting up or rebadging magazine websites; Experimenting with podcast, vidcast and digital magazine formats.
Meanwhile the majority of UK based Outdoor Bloggers, coming together under the auspices of the OutdoorBloggers.com have welcomed new members, and provided a strong support network for those seeking to get started, looking to improve their chosen craft, or just happy to be amongst a like minded community. With over 55 members it may not sound huge. But it represents the majority of those in the UK actively blogging on outdoor related matters. Specifically walking/wildcamping, but also including other outdoor interests. And using a range of methods to present the information on-line.
Any regular reader of these blogs could not have failed to notice comprehensive coverage of such things as the Outdoors Show. Providing a level of detail and reflection to a depth that just wouldn't be possible within a magazine issue. And more importantly making it available whilst the information remained fresh and relevant.
Tellingly, what the magazines may have to report is still awaited.
A throw away comment from one blogger made me return to my original piece to remind myself of circulation figures and to confirm the latest position. And all does not look good in print magazine land at present.
Anyone following the Lad's Mags (Maxim, Loaded, FHQ) circulation news will already be aware that their market share has been plummeting as their market audience moves away to other interests.
And whilst the outdoor sphere has always been of a less flighty nature, the comparative figures for 2006 & 2007 are worrying. Once again using the magazine industry's benchmark, the Audit Bureau of Circulations (the little ABC you sometimes see inside the magazine cover) and with due recognition of ABC copyright ownership a quick reprise of the state of the market using 2007 figures against those 2006 representative titles
Mag: TRAIL
Circulation : 39,349 (2006 - 40,552 - 3% drop)
Cost: £3.70 (2006 - £3.50 - 6% increase)
Subscription: 38% of copies sold (2006 - 41% - 3 % drop)
Mag: COUNTRY WALKING
Circulation : 44,549 (2006 - 46,849 - 5% drop)
Cost: £3.70 (2006 - £3.50 - 6% increase)
Subscription: 42% of copies sold (2006 - 43% - 1% drop)
Mag: TGO
Circulation : 10,705 (2006 - 11,368 - 6% drop)
Cost: £3.40 (2006 - £3.30 - 3% increase)
Subscribers: 31% of copies sold (2006 - 38% - 7 % drop)
And the alternative outdoor offerings?
Magazine : WALK
Circulation : 105,168 (2006 - 105,809 - 1% drop)
Cost: n/a
Subscribers: n/a
Magazine : CUMBRIA
Circulation : 12,505 (2006 - 13,043 - 4% drop)
Cost: £1.99 (2006 - £1.85 - 8% increase)
Subscribers: 58% (2006 - 56% - 2 % increase)
Across all titles, even including the Rambler's Association Walk Magazine (part of the membership deal), there has been a loss of readership, accompanied by a loss of subscribers. Except for Cumbria, which I suspect has a huge readership outside of the Lakes, and naturally tends towards subscription for its circulation.
All the magazines, as you’d expect, have had a cover price increase. But that doesn’t appear to directly relate to readership loss with TGO hardest hit despite the lowest price change.
Across the big three UK magazines (Trail; Country Walking; TGO) total readership has dropped from 98,769 to 94,603
Similar figures for blog readership are notoriously difficult to acquire. But here's some rough figures based on average monthly visitors and a variety of different and regularly followed blogs (via RSS feeds- say 10 and 20 blogs)
A minimum audience of 15,000 and a maximum in excess of 30,000.
(But please - this is a very rough estimate based on very little hard fact, just feedback from my own site stats and a few others balanced against repeat visits throughout a "average" month. I wouldn’t want this taken as more than a poor indicator for comparative purposes)
So where has 4% of the 2006 print readership wandered off to? And what does this mean for those newer magazines such as Active Magazine launched back in Feb just in time for the NEC Show?
Perhaps, similar to the advent of multiple digital TV channels the traditional mass audience has started to peel away. To follow stations geared to their own niche interests.
Or possibly, with lifestyle choice and shifting population demographics, the target readership has moved off to other things (But considering the level of mainstream press publicity given to reports on obesity and walking for fitness & good health one should expect the opposite?)
Or perhaps the print magazine is facing an increasingly web enabled audience. One who select their information sources to match their leisure activity niches, at a time and place of their choosing. And one that more immediately meets their need?.
We are constantly reminded that we live in a fast and ever changing world. The expectations of the present generations are radically different from those of only ten years ago.
As an alternative form of information, entertainment & communication 2007 has undoubtedly seen the consolidation of the Outdoor Blog as one format amongst many alternatives. And hopefully those involved have lifted their game to consider both regular readership, but also those coming new to the genre.
So for 2008:
Outdoor Blogs - still an alternative.
Definitely standing upright; And showing commitment to what they deliver.
But the question remains -are they a replacement for the traditional press?
As a committed reader of outdoor magazines, but on a less regular basis than in the past, I hope they continue. But edgy times indeed for those involved in static and cost heavy businesses.
And what about the hard working print journalist, with a network of contacts and providing that essential conduit between manufacturer/organisation and getting their product/news to you the public? If the print press does fade away, surely the quality of the information provided will similarly degrade?
Well - maybe not as much as you would think. A subject I will return to with the concluding part of this piece coming sometime during the next week.
(Well - you think this stuff is quick to produce? There is the day job to consider after all!)Labels: blog media, TGO Magazine, Trail Magazine
Tuesday, March 25
UK Walking Magazine - The Little Death?
As ever, one little teeny weeny Google query seems to have led to another, and another, and .........well you get the general idea by now I'm sure.
There's something rather smelly happening in the UK Outdoor magazine world. Possibly reflective of the traditional print media, as a whole?
More to follow in the next few days once I've dug a little deeper.Labels: blog media, media, TGO Magazine, Trail Magazine
Sunday, March 9
TGO & Trail Magazine; And what's a 'Heat Exchange Mask' then?
Pre the Outdoor Show I decided to take a look at the latest outdoor magazines. Well, when I say take a look what I really mean is buy rather than spend 5 minutes in the local W.H. Smith's library, flicking through the increasingly expensive offerings (well compared to the time it takes me to read them at least!)
I've rather given up on these mags over the winter months as the content had become a little staid.
Trail was easy to locate (WHS naturally) but TGO was a b*gger to chase down. No thanks to the newsagent in the centre of Christchurch who kindly informed me here was "No demand for walking magazines around this area" Well why was I asking for one then? But a similar request at a small shop in Bransgore, after one of my New Forest wanders earlier today turned up both a knowledgeable newsagent, and nice shiny copy.
And happily well worth the search.
I don't know what the team at TGO may have been imbibing recently but the magazine is back on form with a Bang. Entertaining, informative and challenging. And as editor Cameron McNeish intimated in the prerelease vidcast trailer, if Eddy Meechan carries on like he's started off already there's plenty of sparks ready to fly. I had to admit the heat exchange mask made me laugh at first. But then I read the article and thought - well why not? (and AS has his own view here)
And that is what we buy a magazine for surely? To learn and to challenge accepted opinion; And then to make up our own minds.
TGO 1; Trail 0;
No contest.
And that's despite the NEC Blogger Meet-up being publicised as one of the attractions of the Outdoors Show though. Would have been nice to have been asked beforehand? And I guess the Jennings stand may have some thoughts on that one as well. Which we may find out on the day I guess ( Naughty naughty)Labels: media, NEC Outdoors Show, TGO Magazine, Trail Magazine
Monday, August 6
Timeless Flight - A second bite
And whilst I'm playing catch-up on recent articles, there has been some thoughtful responses about the status of Outdoor magazines.
Lighthiker made an interesting point, which I've heard before, and would mostly agree with. But I think there's more to it than at first glance:
"People have the idea that the Internet is "free" and wouldn't pay for a subscription of a website the same price they pay for the printed magazine. And to some extent I also need to blame bloggers like myself. I post about gear. I make no money out of it and people can read it for free. So if they find the info they want let's say about the latest tents on my blog or others why buying a printed magazine? The only thing that can make a difference would be big in-depth tests and some kind of premium (and I mean premium) content which differs them from what is available for free online. ................ Not many advertisers would move online as their ad will be easier overlooked/clicked away and magazines can't charge them the same rates for online advertising compared to the printed version.Things might change over time when the Internet becomes so cheap and accessible that everybody can use it all the time at every place and the reading habits change also. It will come but probably is 5-10 years from now"
I'd especially agree on the "Internet= Free" model. Would Podcast Bob's excellent output have the same appeal if the podcasts were chargeable? An issue I know Bob continues to tussle with.
For these sort of things I always look to the prime example of supply and demand in action. One of the oldest commercial concerns in the communication medias. It was straight in there as soon as the pictures and the written word started to be used for mass communication.
It is of course the Sex Industry.
Whatever your personal feelings about the product for sale their providers work in one of the strongest surviving markets. And one of the most cut throat and pressured. It is one that's continued to survive despite the attempts of law, social disapproval and religious stricture. Sex sells, as advertisers spend so many dreary millions of $$$$ trying hard to avoid telling us (subtle ads; trick story lines; subliminal messages etc)
But as an industry they are very early adopters in communication and retail environments.
And much as Playboy print magazine of the 50s eventually became a household name, a designer label, and a mult media industry, the modern day spawn of the porn sites were on the net early, and have tried most of the tricks in the book to make websites pay. Even inventing a few new ones along the way, some legitimate, some particularly odious.
Ditto digital TV/view on demand etc - a marketplace in which the big corporations are still very much feeling their way at present.
BTW I'm not suggesting that we should try to make too close a comparison between the outdoor industry here!
But consider some key elements from that sphere.........
- The way in which the print format has adopted certain facets of the digital media, whilst still retaining some of the traditional format, for non adopters, but with a revised demand model and pricing structure.
- The adoption of real time information feeds e.g. webcam
- Interaction with the demand points i.e. Joe Public via a variety of alternatives (e.g. mobile phones)
- Free site content as a loss leader to a subscription model
- Ease of use
- E-tail spin-off business targeting a High Street audience, without the legislative issues or premise overhead. Or the social disapproval.
...... etc etc
I'm no expert in this area- no honestly! But any one who has experienced the Internet for more than a simple usage quickly finds it difficult to avoid a variety of content delivery all trying their independent methods of making that elusive buck. The sex/porn industry, despite its lack of general social acceptability (in fact possibly because of that?) has been by far the one with the most widespread impact globally across the web. And one of the biggest money takers I suspect.
As I said earlier. Watch the model, not the product. Some sales will always be easier. Some models less complex.
But learn from the successful and adapt to your own concern.
"It will come but probably is 5-10 years from now"
I'd say that's already here for some retailers. The question is whether established product providers adopt, adapt, or maybe even just avoid. Labels: blog media, TGO Magazine, Trail Magazine
Friday, August 3
Timeless Flight. Have Outdoor Magazines met their nadir?
An unexpected delay on my flight back during a business trip earlier today gave me the dubious opportunity to sit in Liverpool Airport reading the September copy of Trail magazine.
Dubious?
Well with rather too many long hours to while away there was a temptation to read and reread the magazine sat in my lap. Or even to critically assess the content, presentation and format. Which is a little unfair on my part really because Trail Magazine is honestly not that sort of reading material. It never pretends to be a 'work of art' for critical analysis, but a monthly outdoor mag ("The UK's biggest selling hill-walking magazine") to provide information whilst remaining entertaining.
And as I sit here tip-tip-tapping into my faithful Psion 5, the flight has just been called (finally), so I'd better make this a very quick round-up, and clean it up back at home (which I'm now doing)
I'd have to say that Trail is not only a little light on content, but is starting to lay itself open to the accusation of being noticeably dated with some articles. For instance - a couple of references to Steve Perry's charity trip (aborted prematurely at the start of last week), a circular route over Caldbeck Fells the pictures showing a frozen landscape (so how long ago was that trip then?)
I do appreciate the unavoidable delay between putting the issue to bed, and distributing the printed article to the retailer. But how long is the delay, and does it remain acceptable these days? After all newspapers appear each morning based on the previous day's happenings.
I assume the advantage of delayed release for magazines is more financially motivated, but how long are we talking here?
But I digress. Back to the plot JH.
I'd forgive the Perry ref as just being one of those timing things, but in general the relevancy if some articles is becoming an issue these days with 3-4 month article lead times appearing quite common. And news? Well it isn't really. As Perry's mishap unintentionally proved.
I'm sure if I looked a little closer I'd discover this is not an issue limited just to Trail, or even the Outdoor magazine sector. Why as a reading public are we paying highish prices (Trail-£3.50) for something that is not necessarily a reflection of the season and outdoor experiences we ourselves are having?
Or to put it another way. Why on the 3rd day of August am I reading a magazine marked September, but based on articles compiled, at my guess, sometime in March/April? A six month gap?
I repeat this is not aimed at Trail magazine per se. That esteemed publishing team continue to attract a strong readership so are obviously meeting a demand from numerous readers. But there comes a point when the accumulation of the cost for three or four months mags may be better spent on (say) a reference/route guide to Scotland in a book form. And that at least would be something I'd keep and use later. As opposed to stockpiling old mags for years, and finally throwing them away finding no-one else to take them on. That was a moment of satori, and a weight off the attic woodwork, when I realised I'd never referred to one back issue in all the time I'd kept them. Not once.
Well that may say more about me, or what I expect these days from the publishing industry.
Even the on-line version of TGO took a couple of days to post about Steve Perry, although I suspect they were waiting for comment from Steve himself.
Or perhaps I'm becoming more demanding as an increasing amount of news and reviews are via websites, outdoor forums, and yes you've guess it - Blogs. All immediate medias. Quality and veracity of course varying tremendously. But a cross section of views and feedback offers me much more of a consensus view. And usually some come back to the individuals concerned.
But mostly I expect to read far more critical and detailed reviews, based on real life use, on the net. There's no advertiser's to be wary of (and no matter how independent the mag that is always a consideration to some extent. It's only human nature after all) There are expectations to this of course - Judy Armstrong/Chris Townsend being very good at calling a spade a spade where it counts.
But it does look like the outdoor magazine is these days becoming more of a......?
Well to be honest I'm not too sure what they are at the moment. And where they fit into the future of media/audience communication.
But at the moment I can't help but feel that something is slipping away from some sectors of the magazine industry.
Once I read the essential monthly copy for information. For new ideas. For education. Now I buy as something to while away a quick twenty or thirty minute journey. Something lightweight.
And before someone points out my previous posts, all based on regular purchase of said items .... the reason I continue to buy Trail and TGO? (subscription just lapsed BTW) Part relevancy to the interests I have on this blog site and part optimism that things will improve.
Occasionally I uncover a gem. Sometimes an article is relevant to my needs. But mostly I end up dissatisfied. A feeling that there has to be more. And as any retailer understands. If you fail to satisfy the punter properly, forget any return trade.
So finally an appeal. Can anyone in any part of the press/print industry throw some light on this at all? (Whether privately or publicly)
I'd even be interested in meeting/visiting any of the mags/editorial teams in an effort to better understand the realities at first hand.
This ones bugging me. I can feel a chill wind blowing and I'd like to see which bugger has left the privy door open.Or is it the new wave blowing on by?
Labels: blog media, TGO Magazine, Trail Magazine
Tuesday, July 10
August Trail items
A couple of quick highlights after just finishing August's copy of Trail Magazine.
Again loads of content, but it tends to dissipate when looking for real detail , or perhaps that's just me expecting too much insight from what is a general outdoor readership mag after all.
An interesting wildcamping article, a little spoilt by 3 up in a tent. I could see the idea behind the article to persuade more women to enjoy the experience, but not the ideal way to be introduced to the concept of "carry light, travel far"
.......first get your great big heavy three (wo)man tent ..............you get the idea.
But to the things that caught my eye:
There's a link to courses run by the Institute of Public Rights of Way, to help manage rights of way issues. I adopted several local footpaths myself many years ago, the premise being walk them regularly to keep legal access rights fresh, and report back on obstructions. I also kept the way marking up, a constant challenge where path and housing estates converge.
On the whole the experience has been positive, although the approach of individual councils tends to vary dependant on their attitude, the location, and more importantly their available budget.
Yet another good reason for some local walking though.
Secondly a quick heads up ..........
If you happen to be planning a camp outdoors 23 July then look to the night sky when the Perseids meteor shower starts, for about a month. Peak time is supposed to be the 12th August, when I know one group of bloggers in particular will hopefully be away from all light pollution, looking to the sky.
One for the diary. Let's hope the weather accommodates accordingly.Labels: Trail Magazine
Sunday, July 1
Trail Challenge over & Keswick's George Fisher sold
It's interesting how one thing can lead to another, and another, and ... etc etc
I was checking the progress of the Trail Magazine Academy trio. Sarah writes: "The Trail thing is now officially over, and looking at the write up of the last expedition in the magazine, I’m quite glad I didn’t go. Looks like they walked a long way carrying a lot of kit and had a very uncomfortable night. I love the outdoors, and I enjoy camping, but I don’t believe in making things even more difficult for yourself! It’s a shame it’s over, and I appear to be the one who got the least out of it, but such is life"
Whatever Trail's intentions on the exercise it looks like some of the backpacking ethos & practice possibly didn't rub off in quite the way it was intended.
And as for the other two guinea pigs. Emma had a proposal of marriage, and Sian found out she was nearly pregnant, for a short while. It all seems to happen on these Trail programs doesn't it!
But they all seemed to have enjoyed the experience, and thanks to Sarah's blog for the tip off concerning the new Trail Gear Blog, which coincidentally appeared to to have hit the web around the time the repackaged TGO Forum/Blogsite was rolled out. Is that's what's called a spoiler in the press trade? Surely not.
As I was checking the links for this post I spotted this piece of recent news concerning the takeover of the highly regarded George Fisher shop in Keswick by the Tiso Group. Trail's news report is here.
Normally this sort of news would have appeared on the outdoor forums, but not a sniff that I've spotted so far. And nothing on GF's own site either (So does that count as a blogger scoop WD?)
As to the news, one commenter has positive comments on Tiso in Edinburgh(Tiso is largely unknown south of the Scottish border) so hopefully GF's excellent service and stocking policy will continue into the future.
And of course the web cam.Labels: blog media, Gear, Lake District, TGO Magazine, Trail Magazine
Wednesday, June 6
TGO website
The new TGO site is now up and running, and quickly filling with high quality content. Highly recommended
(Damn - that's more stuff to read on-line)
The main question - how will the TGO on-line version differ in content from the TGO print version?
I'm looking forward an interesting few months as I was aware Cameron had a 'pack full of ideas, and it's good to see the initiative starting to come into flower. Best of luck.
It'll be interesting to see how Trail/Country Walking respond to this initiative from Cameron's team, bearing in mind the content of some of the recent topics covered. Only coincidental I'm sure.Labels: TGO Magazine, Trail Magazine
Wednesday, May 2
Trail Post - Interesting Response
Hhhmmmm. Interesting.
Visits to this site more than doubled following a couple of comments I left on OM concerning the value of Trail's piece on 'Lightweight Lakes'. All looking at this post.
None felt the need to leave a comment. But the interest level leads me to suspect I may have hit a sympathetic nerve.
Discuss?Labels: blog media, Trail Magazine
Monday, April 30
Trail Magazine - June
Another month, another well laid trap to fall into. Again.
Curses! Clever these publishers. I should have learnt my lesson by now.
Lots of lovely articles to dig into, but once again a sense of deflation. Why is that? A quick glance at the articles:
- Good bit on the new via ferrata route at Honister Hause slate mine
- 'Get into wildcamping' Nice try, but bullet points on a single page - give me a break!
- Philosophy of Lightweight. Interesting, but more content, less double page pictures
- Essential equipment - Ha ha. Got me going there. I was half way through the article before I read 'an adequate supply of water is essential but insufficient' What on earth? Oh right - a sponsored article by the Sugar Bureau aka Designer drinks good; Water bad. Naughty. Very naughty
- Sub 2k tents - reasonable article.
- How to buy a soft shell - with the lead-in stating ".....which is why you need one" Oh. And there's me without one. Heresy. A quick scour of the article and I finally found the answer. In small text. On a green background. Still got no real idea why I 'must' have one. A pity it came across as an order. I don't react well to that sort of approach. Sloppy journalism on an otherwise good article though.
- Eiger history- great bit, this is more like it.
And so on..........
One thought as I dropped it in the recycle rack (after only 1/2 hour reading this month) was a topic that seem to mirror some of my older blog posts (e.g. Walks/Public transport)
Now I've got no monopoly on that idea. After all it's been around for years, but I do recall trying to explain how easily it can be achieved and why. A bit strange to see the number of routes labelled as Public Transport. When did that first start popping up?
This months cover price£3.50; Or £7.00 an hour at my interest level.
And you have this blog all for free. Peachy
Labels: Trail Magazine
Thursday, April 5
TGO, Trail (and the Outdoor Show?)
I'd just finished off May's issue of Trail magazine when postie dropped my copy of TGO onto the doormat. So once more a comparative response due to an accident of timing.
I'd been tempted into buying Trail for the second month in a row by the cover's teaser headings, and a very quick thumb thru before purchase.
It looked good in the shop. But once more I found that I rapidly skipped through it, the chopped-up page layout making it more of a 'dip-into' style, rather than any sort of absorbing read.
But again I felt left with an unsatisfied feeling, and no real reaction to most of the articles, beyond what I've already said about sponsored articles.
The Brecon Beacons routes stuff was ok; Oh and I'll definitely cross a visit to the Dove Crag's Priest's Hole Cave off my list for several months. It wasn't the biggest secret in the Lakeland walks world, but it will attract too much attention now its been included as just another 'great night away'. This Easter weekend should be fun - lol (Just grateful that the other spots I know were overlooked. But perhaps that's why I found them in the first place and continue to use them. Not intended as elitism on my part, more my more solitary enjoyment of the fellside)
TGO was a bit more thought provoking.
For once Jim Perrin's stuff grabbed me, and I wanted to read to the end of his article.
Chris Townsend (as always) delivered the goods, with a thoughtful look at lightweight clothing systems. His point, as I took it, being more about approach to use and mix of clothing, rather than a formulaic Gear A plus Gear B plus Gear C = result. I've already used this mindset successfully last year, shaving pounds of my pack weight by losing the fleece with adding a windproof (Montane Lite-Speed - a real find)
So with both mags put aside, I suddenly realised - not one report about the NEC Outdoors Show in mid April?
Plenty of press beforehand, but no post show round-up? Perhaps the deadline dates for May's copy was too early for the show report, but it leads me to a point I've raised before about one of the roles of the (for want of a better phrase) 'new media'.
The various UK Outdoors Bloggers that attended reported on the event on the day, or within a few days.
The copy may have been at times opinionated and possibly even amateurish, but it did represent a timely man-in-the-street response to what was on offer.
Andy Howell delayed release of the multi podcast reports until earlier this week, possibly while he waited for the return of his technical support guru? (p.s. AH -is the podzine web page detail right, it seems to talk about Harrogate 2006 fair?). Check here if you want to download free of charge.
But from the mags I've read, a recognisable source used by most of the outdoor walking fraternity - nothing. (Anyone out there in magazine world care to respond?)
As I've said before, on-line media is complimentary to established publishing methodology.
But hey sometimes we bloggers do have a definite edge.
Labels: TGO Magazine, Trail Magazine, UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
All site material © John Hee - ask before you snatch
Times are hard in the publishing industry. Competition from the big High Street combines (e.g. Tesco) & on-line merchandisers (e.g. Amazon) continue to tempt the dwindling UK literate with low cost book offers and special package promotions. The monthly magazine industry is similarly challenged, not on price, but increasingly on specialist content freely available on-line.
In the past I've used the magazine industry's benchmark, the Audit Bureau of Circulations (with due recognition of ABC copyright ownership) to look at how the Outdoor titles are coping.
Here's some thoughts based on the 2008 sales figures. If you'd like to refer back to my 2007 & 2006 pieces please click HERE
Mag: TRAIL
Circulation : 40,531 (2007 - 39,349- 3% rise)
Cost: £3,90 (2007 - £3.70 - 5.4% increase)
Subscription: 37% of copies sold (2007 - 38%) down
Mag: COUNTRY WALKING
Circulation : 44,044 (2007- 44,549 - 1% drop)
Cost: £3.70 (unchanged)
Subscription: 43% of copies sold (2007 - 42%) down
Mag: TGO
Circulation : 9,891 (2007 - 10,705 - 7% drop)
Cost: £3.40 (unchanged)
Subscribers: 33% of copies sold (2007 - 31%) up
Mag: WALK
Circulation : 104,476 (2007 - 105,168 - 1% drop)
Cost: n/a
Subscribers: n/a
Mag: CUMBRIA
Circulation : 12,183 (2007 - 12,505 - 3% drop)
Cost: £2.25 (2007 - £1.99 13% increase)
Subscribers: 58% (2007 - 58%) no change
[Figures for recent new titles (Outdoor & the various Bushcraft magazines) weren't available]
Looking at the Big Three's circulation since 2006 .......
Overall not too bad a position taken as a whole. Not exactly flourishing, but managing to maintain regular readership overall despite cover price increase along the way.
But the disparity between titles is clearly evident.
Rather than rehash past reflection instead I'll pose the question 'Why the differences?'
It can't be directly down magazine content, or format. No doubt you have your own preferred read, but both Trail & TGO have relaunched their format.
Perhaps the ABC figures doesn't include digital copies?
No idea to be frank, but I'd be surprised if that was the case, and even then the numbers concerned can't be that large taken as a percentage of total circulation.
My pet theory, and totally without any real evidence, is down to You; The Prospective Reader.
Or more accurately 'How do you get hold of your monthly mag?'
Both Trail and CW are backed by the conglomerate Bauer Consumer Media who acquired the titles from EMAP in early 2008. Its hugely influential with the number of UK magazine titles it produces right across the spectrum of the UK magazine buying public.
With that comes an effective distribution network, the result of which is your favourite mag, whichever it may be, available from a variety of local stockists, especially the likes of W H Smith, favourite browsing shop of the train/airport lounge.
TGO is part of The Herald and Times Group Magazines, which in turn is owned by the global Newsquest organisation.
Which would lead you to think the distribution of TGO should be similarly widespread across the UK.
But for some reason, possibly related to the Scottish based Herald organisation, TGO has become increasingly difficult to track down here in the south of England (Whether that is the case in such places as the Midlands etc - I'd be interested to hear)
Which means impulse buying of TGO, picked up as a result of browsing the newsstand for something to pass the time, doesn't seem possible. With the result that potential new/regular readership is lost.
I know this is true in my own case as I've resorted to taking a subscription to TGO as I rate it so highly. But as we all know - a subscription is easily lapsed if the renewal arrives around the time that the last couple of issues lacked that specific spark of interest.
All of which makes a difficult balancing act for the TGO editorial team. To stay true to their mag's ethos, whilst having to continually think up fresh new ideas to keep the existing readership keen, whilst limited to their potential audience. And some ideas, taken too far, may actually have the opposite effect.
I'm sure it can't be this simple; And I wish it was truly based on the quality and content of the magazine. But hey ho its an unfair world.
At a time that the mainstream media tell us that more people are taking to Things Outdoors, such disparity in reader numbers is a difficulty that really needs to be resolved. Especially when part of a large corporate super-owner, who's interest is balance sheet rather than passion.
Labels: blog media, TGO Magazine, Trail Magazine
Welsh 3000s - Tut tut Trail Mag
Following my recent piece on Thomas Firbank I'd heard on the grapevine that June's Trail Magazine would include an article on the Welsh 3000s, a challenge originally arising with Firbank and documented in his 1940 book “I Bought A Mountain”.
A pity then that Trail somehow overlooked mentioning the debt owed to Firbank and friends(although Esme gets a slight look in). Instead the focus was more on the opportunity for Trail to become Challenger #1 on Snowdonia Society's 14 Peaks
Err - not a particularly impressive achievement 'Team Trail' if nobody else knows it exists. Especially if that success arrives at the same time as knowledge about the prize.
Whatever.
Happily the Snowdonia Society site provides an accurate history to balance the picture.
Actually, now I come to think about it, much of June's magazine had me spitting. Not least that two of my recent wildcamp areas appeared in their walks section (yes I know they would have done them months before I got there, and at least one is a relatively common area, but it just felt soooooooooooo wrong)
Then there's the article on Wildcamping which left me with a feeling on it all being rather jolly, but also rather off-balance somehow. Especially compared to Dave Mycroft's Outdoors Magic piece on the same subject.
To quote Trail “giving out exact grid references are a no-no because sites tend to get overused, so here are a few grid squares for you to hunt for a spot in”.
Next to a 4 digit grid ref and the name Red Tarn.
Err - the point of wildcamping is camping in the wild. Not watching the party animals whooping it up on the other side of the tarn, having picked up the camp site courtesy of an earlier WHSmith stop on the M6.
Argh!
I give up.
Is it just me who finds Trail Mag rapidly turning into a comic as it tries to ride the current Craze for (cheap) camping breaks?
Especially now the Credit Cr*p has made it all so very trendy in the media at present.
Labels: books, Trail Magazine, Wales
Thursday, July 24
Podcast News
Now my Dartmoor trip write-up is complete (warts and all - but the whole truth whatever you may read elsewhere!) its time to catch up with other news, whilst I chew over a few of the thoughts that popped up over the weekend.
I've an anniversary, of sorts, coming up soon. So perhaps its time for one of my more reflective mumblings. But that's for later.
Today a bit of entertainment for the weekend. Podcast Bob has been at it again.
Firstly there's his exclusive interview with Mick & Gayle fresh from their successful LeJoG trip. I listened to it on my way to Dartmoor, and a few hours later had the good fortune to be speaking to them face to face. The interview is well worth listening to if you don't happen to have them in your living room.
Mick & Gayle LEJOG 2008
(or right click & 'Save Target As' using this link to download)
And hard on its heels Bob has started his reports from the 2008 Friedrichshafen Outdoor Trade Fair. If true to its usual reputation this show sets the trends for the UK outdoor market next year - so get in there first folks.
Friedrichshafen (Part One)
(or right click & 'Save Target As' using this link to download)Labels: LEJOG, Outdoors Show, Trail Magazine
Saturday, March 29
2008: Blogs & the 'traditional' press (Part 2)
I left the first part of this article hanging with a question…
"What about the hard working print journalist, with a network of contacts, providing that essential conduit between manufacturer/organisation and getting their product/news to you the public? If the print press does fade away, surely the quality of the information provided will similarly degrade?"
This reminded me of some material hanging around in my Ideas-Box. Some of these ideas quietly slip into oblivion as their relevancy fades with the passage of time. But this one insisted on being aired. Possibly this was rattling around the emptier recesses of my mind as the first part of this piece laid itself out onto this screen.
So, if I may, a brief diversion off the main track before attempting to weave its relevancy back onto the path.
Nick Davies's Guardian piece (Feb 08) is scathing in his damnation of lazy journalism. Aiming straight between the eyes he charges "our tendency to recycle ignorance is far worse than it was…80% (of articles) …were wholly, mainly or partially constructed from second-hand material, provided by news agencies and by the public relations industry"
In summarising his research based on material covering many years of UK based media he goes even further:
"Where once journalists were active gatherers of news, now they have generally become mere passive processors of unchecked, second-hand material, much of it contrived by PR to serve some political or commercial interest. Not journalists, but churnalists. An industry whose primary task is to filter out falsehood has become so vulnerable to manipulation that it is now involved in the mass production of falsehood, distortion and propaganda"
Very hard words.
The source of his material commissioned from Cardiff University provides some interesting facts:
* 2 out 3 media reports relate back to PR/Press wire sources
* 2/3rds of the typical morning newspaper used the same basic material, with many poorly researched, if at all, and probably not even re-edited or revised
* 49% of stories are straight press feed/wire copy
* 60% of stories rely wholly or mainly on pre-packaged info
In mitigation it is pointed out that a daily newspaper is now three times the size of 20 years ago. And with no corresponding increase in staff the difficulties in filling this additional space can be considerable. Tying the journalist to an office keyboard rather than out news gathering/checking as once was their role.
Damning stuff for the Grub Street of today.
Right, diversion over. Back to the main path.
Let's apply this to the Outdoor Magazine sector. Whilst undoubtedly the economics of the publishing industry cannot avoid the general industry trend (pages up; staff small), those I've encountered manage to maintain an ethical approach to their craft. News itself forms only a small part of each month's copy. The majority of main content requires old style journalism. Gear is reviewed through personal use; Issues are researched, opinions formed and then delivered with a balanced hand. Political agenda, rarely raised, is carefully handled and usually acknowledged in a relatively classless manner, although the Big Landowner v Small Man debate will be aired on occasions, with the magazine taking the Small Man's position.
So hopefully not all is as black as at first suspected.
However underlying much of the content is the reality that most magazines these days survive not through readership numbers but advertising. There's little evidence to suggest a review will be positive just because the manufacturer places Ads in the same magazine. And that's unlike rumours to the contrary made in other publishing sectors. For one, the items concerned are typically of low value when compared to such items as the price of, let's say, a new car.
But still the reality is that gear tests mostly rely on easy and early access to outdoor kit; Regular involvement with the provider's PR, Marketing & Technical teams; And a careful balancing of the feed-provider/information-distributor.
To their credit this is something that the Outdoor publications seem to pull off. Or so it fees as a reader of much of their output over the years. If there is a retail tie-in then its stated, and its rare that any favouritism appears. Impartiality is still a very Big Word amongst the Outdoor Press.
(The main exception I regularly rail against on here is the monthly Trail/British Sugar Industry article. It may be flagged with a suitable warning. But the times I've been part way through the article; Smelt a rat; And paused to check the by-line; Only to realise I'm reading an 'industry information' piece recommending Sugar. That damages the magazine's relationship with me, the reader, each time it happens)
But what of the Blog & Podcast?
Let's get this fact out straight away. We're amateurs. Most Bloggers normally start off with few outdoor 'contacts'. It’s our real day job that provides the money to live and eat, and that's not necessarily involved with any of the Outdoor Industry. Hence content is initially based on what goes on around us, that may catch our interest. What we see, do and think.
As time passes contacts and networks naturally build if so desired. Sometimes within the outdoor retail sector, but more immediately with those Outdoor Organisations we are part of, or become involved, with as our passion and interest takes us further afield.
Often such links bring an opportunity for better gear/issues reports. But here I believe the Outdoor Blogger departs from our print based counterpart.
Most gear reviews require kit bought or borrowed using our own cash. Stuff that interests, that can be put to extend periods of use (and misuse) and reflected on. Sometimes that may be with a degree of natural bias (boots v trail shoes) but mostly reported as a typical customer who's parted with hard £££s, has limited choice, and requires kit to do what it says on the tin.
And if opportunities do arise for such gear to be provided gratis by the outdoor retail industry, those same instincts remain. If something stinks, then the smell will be aired in public. Mitigated with due regard to the source, but unencumbered by too much concern over 'biting the hand that feeds'.
There is no bigger picture to consider. No organisation or income stream to safeguard. And no protection either.
Each individual's Blog is their own personal investment. It can stop, grow, or stagnate on whim. And if the content becomes rabid trash with a marked biased then readership will dwindle; And usually the Blogger's desire to continue declines. (I'll ignore the paparazzi/gossip Blogs here!)
It is certainly helpful to get easier access to equipment, especially if normally unobtainable due to price or availability. But few of us would ever review something because We Must. It is because the item will be of personal interest and curiosity. For we are Owner, Editor, Writer and Publisher all at the same time. We get to choose.
PR/Marketing contacts can undoubtedly ease much of the basic access & research. But for us simple folk any regurgitation of the copy-writer's snake-oil wordage is noticeable. Any product placement that may occur is down to the social and fashion drivers we, as part of the outdoor public, are all subject to. But similarly there are those amongst our number who will regularly go against the prevailing trend. Indeed on any given topic you'll usually find a whole range of opinion, or lack of, across the Outdoor Blogs leaving you as reader to make up your own mind based on a wide discussion of the issues involved.
If you like, it’s the ultimate pub conversation. But readily available on-line from your home most days. And with the option to turn away to another source if the content is uninteresting.
So turning back to the original question "If the print press does fade away, surely the quality of the information provided will similarly degrade?"
Maybe - but is the alternative before you any worse? Or is its delivery & content of more relevance for today's audience?
Time will tell. And also, I suspect, the effect of continuing to maintain a low cost alternative.
The majority of Outdoor Blogs steer clear of carrying any form of income generators (Click through Ads; Google AdSense; Retail links etc) But as the on-line format matures there is the reality for many of us to maintain and improve quality content. And for that the present self-financing will continue to be challenged if it is to develop.
How to do that without losing the hard fought integrity that is being slowly built? I wonder how you as a reader may feel about that? Will we see a ceiling on the type of content provided, limited by cash, time and hobby blog status? Or will Blogs that go beyond this risk becoming too closely compared with the print media's own dilemma? Content v Income Generation = Continued Survival.
Print or on-line its clear the content provider shares many of the same information resources, but not necessarily the same problems. Not yet at least.
The attraction of the established magazine for the Outdoor reader will remain, I'm sure. But the flexibility and variety of the Outdoor Blog scene will continue to grow and exert an influence.
And that leaves you, as the consumer, firmly in the driving seat.
From this Blogger's view that's a Good Thing as your interaction with this medium can directly and quickly influence the content you see far better than any remote Market Survey will ever manage.
Ramble over. Normal service will be resumed with immediate effect.
Labels: blog media, TGO Magazine, Trail Magazine
Wednesday, March 26
2008: Blogs & the 'traditional' press (Part 1)
About a year ago I posted an article considering the impact of outdoor blogs alongside the UK's traditional print magazines. Whilst questioning the role blogs played I concluded that it was an alternative format. One still finding its feet. But also very capable of offering things that the paper press weren't able to deliver - speed of news items, article relevancy, targeted readership.
It's been a busy year since. There's been innovation on the hard copy side with publishers setting up or rebadging magazine websites; Experimenting with podcast, vidcast and digital magazine formats.
Meanwhile the majority of UK based Outdoor Bloggers, coming together under the auspices of the OutdoorBloggers.com have welcomed new members, and provided a strong support network for those seeking to get started, looking to improve their chosen craft, or just happy to be amongst a like minded community. With over 55 members it may not sound huge. But it represents the majority of those in the UK actively blogging on outdoor related matters. Specifically walking/wildcamping, but also including other outdoor interests. And using a range of methods to present the information on-line.
Any regular reader of these blogs could not have failed to notice comprehensive coverage of such things as the Outdoors Show. Providing a level of detail and reflection to a depth that just wouldn't be possible within a magazine issue. And more importantly making it available whilst the information remained fresh and relevant.
Tellingly, what the magazines may have to report is still awaited.
A throw away comment from one blogger made me return to my original piece to remind myself of circulation figures and to confirm the latest position. And all does not look good in print magazine land at present.
Anyone following the Lad's Mags (Maxim, Loaded, FHQ) circulation news will already be aware that their market share has been plummeting as their market audience moves away to other interests.
And whilst the outdoor sphere has always been of a less flighty nature, the comparative figures for 2006 & 2007 are worrying. Once again using the magazine industry's benchmark, the Audit Bureau of Circulations (the little ABC you sometimes see inside the magazine cover) and with due recognition of ABC copyright ownership a quick reprise of the state of the market using 2007 figures against those 2006 representative titles
Mag: TRAIL
Circulation : 39,349 (2006 - 40,552 - 3% drop)
Cost: £3.70 (2006 - £3.50 - 6% increase)
Subscription: 38% of copies sold (2006 - 41% - 3 % drop)
Mag: COUNTRY WALKING
Circulation : 44,549 (2006 - 46,849 - 5% drop)
Cost: £3.70 (2006 - £3.50 - 6% increase)
Subscription: 42% of copies sold (2006 - 43% - 1% drop)
Mag: TGO
Circulation : 10,705 (2006 - 11,368 - 6% drop)
Cost: £3.40 (2006 - £3.30 - 3% increase)
Subscribers: 31% of copies sold (2006 - 38% - 7 % drop)
And the alternative outdoor offerings?
Magazine : WALK
Circulation : 105,168 (2006 - 105,809 - 1% drop)
Cost: n/a
Subscribers: n/a
Magazine : CUMBRIA
Circulation : 12,505 (2006 - 13,043 - 4% drop)
Cost: £1.99 (2006 - £1.85 - 8% increase)
Subscribers: 58% (2006 - 56% - 2 % increase)
Across all titles, even including the Rambler's Association Walk Magazine (part of the membership deal), there has been a loss of readership, accompanied by a loss of subscribers. Except for Cumbria, which I suspect has a huge readership outside of the Lakes, and naturally tends towards subscription for its circulation.
All the magazines, as you’d expect, have had a cover price increase. But that doesn’t appear to directly relate to readership loss with TGO hardest hit despite the lowest price change.
Across the big three UK magazines (Trail; Country Walking; TGO) total readership has dropped from 98,769 to 94,603
Similar figures for blog readership are notoriously difficult to acquire. But here's some rough figures based on average monthly visitors and a variety of different and regularly followed blogs (via RSS feeds- say 10 and 20 blogs)
A minimum audience of 15,000 and a maximum in excess of 30,000.
(But please - this is a very rough estimate based on very little hard fact, just feedback from my own site stats and a few others balanced against repeat visits throughout a "average" month. I wouldn’t want this taken as more than a poor indicator for comparative purposes)
So where has 4% of the 2006 print readership wandered off to? And what does this mean for those newer magazines such as Active Magazine launched back in Feb just in time for the NEC Show?
Perhaps, similar to the advent of multiple digital TV channels the traditional mass audience has started to peel away. To follow stations geared to their own niche interests.
Or possibly, with lifestyle choice and shifting population demographics, the target readership has moved off to other things (But considering the level of mainstream press publicity given to reports on obesity and walking for fitness & good health one should expect the opposite?)
Or perhaps the print magazine is facing an increasingly web enabled audience. One who select their information sources to match their leisure activity niches, at a time and place of their choosing. And one that more immediately meets their need?.
We are constantly reminded that we live in a fast and ever changing world. The expectations of the present generations are radically different from those of only ten years ago.
As an alternative form of information, entertainment & communication 2007 has undoubtedly seen the consolidation of the Outdoor Blog as one format amongst many alternatives. And hopefully those involved have lifted their game to consider both regular readership, but also those coming new to the genre.
So for 2008:
Outdoor Blogs - still an alternative.
Definitely standing upright; And showing commitment to what they deliver.
But the question remains -are they a replacement for the traditional press?
As a committed reader of outdoor magazines, but on a less regular basis than in the past, I hope they continue. But edgy times indeed for those involved in static and cost heavy businesses.
And what about the hard working print journalist, with a network of contacts and providing that essential conduit between manufacturer/organisation and getting their product/news to you the public? If the print press does fade away, surely the quality of the information provided will similarly degrade?
Well - maybe not as much as you would think. A subject I will return to with the concluding part of this piece coming sometime during the next week.
(Well - you think this stuff is quick to produce? There is the day job to consider after all!)Labels: blog media, TGO Magazine, Trail Magazine
Tuesday, March 25
UK Walking Magazine - The Little Death?
As ever, one little teeny weeny Google query seems to have led to another, and another, and .........well you get the general idea by now I'm sure.
There's something rather smelly happening in the UK Outdoor magazine world. Possibly reflective of the traditional print media, as a whole?
More to follow in the next few days once I've dug a little deeper.Labels: blog media, media, TGO Magazine, Trail Magazine
Sunday, March 9
TGO & Trail Magazine; And what's a 'Heat Exchange Mask' then?
Pre the Outdoor Show I decided to take a look at the latest outdoor magazines. Well, when I say take a look what I really mean is buy rather than spend 5 minutes in the local W.H. Smith's library, flicking through the increasingly expensive offerings (well compared to the time it takes me to read them at least!)
I've rather given up on these mags over the winter months as the content had become a little staid.
Trail was easy to locate (WHS naturally) but TGO was a b*gger to chase down. No thanks to the newsagent in the centre of Christchurch who kindly informed me here was "No demand for walking magazines around this area" Well why was I asking for one then? But a similar request at a small shop in Bransgore, after one of my New Forest wanders earlier today turned up both a knowledgeable newsagent, and nice shiny copy.
And happily well worth the search.
I don't know what the team at TGO may have been imbibing recently but the magazine is back on form with a Bang. Entertaining, informative and challenging. And as editor Cameron McNeish intimated in the prerelease vidcast trailer, if Eddy Meechan carries on like he's started off already there's plenty of sparks ready to fly. I had to admit the heat exchange mask made me laugh at first. But then I read the article and thought - well why not? (and AS has his own view here)
And that is what we buy a magazine for surely? To learn and to challenge accepted opinion; And then to make up our own minds.
TGO 1; Trail 0;
No contest.
And that's despite the NEC Blogger Meet-up being publicised as one of the attractions of the Outdoors Show though. Would have been nice to have been asked beforehand? And I guess the Jennings stand may have some thoughts on that one as well. Which we may find out on the day I guess ( Naughty naughty)Labels: media, NEC Outdoors Show, TGO Magazine, Trail Magazine
Monday, August 6
Timeless Flight - A second bite
And whilst I'm playing catch-up on recent articles, there has been some thoughtful responses about the status of Outdoor magazines.
Lighthiker made an interesting point, which I've heard before, and would mostly agree with. But I think there's more to it than at first glance:
"People have the idea that the Internet is "free" and wouldn't pay for a subscription of a website the same price they pay for the printed magazine. And to some extent I also need to blame bloggers like myself. I post about gear. I make no money out of it and people can read it for free. So if they find the info they want let's say about the latest tents on my blog or others why buying a printed magazine? The only thing that can make a difference would be big in-depth tests and some kind of premium (and I mean premium) content which differs them from what is available for free online. ................ Not many advertisers would move online as their ad will be easier overlooked/clicked away and magazines can't charge them the same rates for online advertising compared to the printed version.Things might change over time when the Internet becomes so cheap and accessible that everybody can use it all the time at every place and the reading habits change also. It will come but probably is 5-10 years from now"
I'd especially agree on the "Internet= Free" model. Would Podcast Bob's excellent output have the same appeal if the podcasts were chargeable? An issue I know Bob continues to tussle with.
For these sort of things I always look to the prime example of supply and demand in action. One of the oldest commercial concerns in the communication medias. It was straight in there as soon as the pictures and the written word started to be used for mass communication.
It is of course the Sex Industry.
Whatever your personal feelings about the product for sale their providers work in one of the strongest surviving markets. And one of the most cut throat and pressured. It is one that's continued to survive despite the attempts of law, social disapproval and religious stricture. Sex sells, as advertisers spend so many dreary millions of $$$$ trying hard to avoid telling us (subtle ads; trick story lines; subliminal messages etc)
But as an industry they are very early adopters in communication and retail environments.
And much as Playboy print magazine of the 50s eventually became a household name, a designer label, and a mult media industry, the modern day spawn of the porn sites were on the net early, and have tried most of the tricks in the book to make websites pay. Even inventing a few new ones along the way, some legitimate, some particularly odious.
Ditto digital TV/view on demand etc - a marketplace in which the big corporations are still very much feeling their way at present.
BTW I'm not suggesting that we should try to make too close a comparison between the outdoor industry here!
But consider some key elements from that sphere.........
- The way in which the print format has adopted certain facets of the digital media, whilst still retaining some of the traditional format, for non adopters, but with a revised demand model and pricing structure.
- The adoption of real time information feeds e.g. webcam
- Interaction with the demand points i.e. Joe Public via a variety of alternatives (e.g. mobile phones)
- Free site content as a loss leader to a subscription model
- Ease of use
- E-tail spin-off business targeting a High Street audience, without the legislative issues or premise overhead. Or the social disapproval.
...... etc etc
I'm no expert in this area- no honestly! But any one who has experienced the Internet for more than a simple usage quickly finds it difficult to avoid a variety of content delivery all trying their independent methods of making that elusive buck. The sex/porn industry, despite its lack of general social acceptability (in fact possibly because of that?) has been by far the one with the most widespread impact globally across the web. And one of the biggest money takers I suspect.
As I said earlier. Watch the model, not the product. Some sales will always be easier. Some models less complex.
But learn from the successful and adapt to your own concern.
"It will come but probably is 5-10 years from now"
I'd say that's already here for some retailers. The question is whether established product providers adopt, adapt, or maybe even just avoid. Labels: blog media, TGO Magazine, Trail Magazine
Friday, August 3
Timeless Flight. Have Outdoor Magazines met their nadir?
An unexpected delay on my flight back during a business trip earlier today gave me the dubious opportunity to sit in Liverpool Airport reading the September copy of Trail magazine.
Dubious?
Well with rather too many long hours to while away there was a temptation to read and reread the magazine sat in my lap. Or even to critically assess the content, presentation and format. Which is a little unfair on my part really because Trail Magazine is honestly not that sort of reading material. It never pretends to be a 'work of art' for critical analysis, but a monthly outdoor mag ("The UK's biggest selling hill-walking magazine") to provide information whilst remaining entertaining.
And as I sit here tip-tip-tapping into my faithful Psion 5, the flight has just been called (finally), so I'd better make this a very quick round-up, and clean it up back at home (which I'm now doing)
I'd have to say that Trail is not only a little light on content, but is starting to lay itself open to the accusation of being noticeably dated with some articles. For instance - a couple of references to Steve Perry's charity trip (aborted prematurely at the start of last week), a circular route over Caldbeck Fells the pictures showing a frozen landscape (so how long ago was that trip then?)
I do appreciate the unavoidable delay between putting the issue to bed, and distributing the printed article to the retailer. But how long is the delay, and does it remain acceptable these days? After all newspapers appear each morning based on the previous day's happenings.
I assume the advantage of delayed release for magazines is more financially motivated, but how long are we talking here?
But I digress. Back to the plot JH.
I'd forgive the Perry ref as just being one of those timing things, but in general the relevancy if some articles is becoming an issue these days with 3-4 month article lead times appearing quite common. And news? Well it isn't really. As Perry's mishap unintentionally proved.
I'm sure if I looked a little closer I'd discover this is not an issue limited just to Trail, or even the Outdoor magazine sector. Why as a reading public are we paying highish prices (Trail-£3.50) for something that is not necessarily a reflection of the season and outdoor experiences we ourselves are having?
Or to put it another way. Why on the 3rd day of August am I reading a magazine marked September, but based on articles compiled, at my guess, sometime in March/April? A six month gap?
I repeat this is not aimed at Trail magazine per se. That esteemed publishing team continue to attract a strong readership so are obviously meeting a demand from numerous readers. But there comes a point when the accumulation of the cost for three or four months mags may be better spent on (say) a reference/route guide to Scotland in a book form. And that at least would be something I'd keep and use later. As opposed to stockpiling old mags for years, and finally throwing them away finding no-one else to take them on. That was a moment of satori, and a weight off the attic woodwork, when I realised I'd never referred to one back issue in all the time I'd kept them. Not once.
Well that may say more about me, or what I expect these days from the publishing industry.
Even the on-line version of TGO took a couple of days to post about Steve Perry, although I suspect they were waiting for comment from Steve himself.
Or perhaps I'm becoming more demanding as an increasing amount of news and reviews are via websites, outdoor forums, and yes you've guess it - Blogs. All immediate medias. Quality and veracity of course varying tremendously. But a cross section of views and feedback offers me much more of a consensus view. And usually some come back to the individuals concerned.
But mostly I expect to read far more critical and detailed reviews, based on real life use, on the net. There's no advertiser's to be wary of (and no matter how independent the mag that is always a consideration to some extent. It's only human nature after all) There are expectations to this of course - Judy Armstrong/Chris Townsend being very good at calling a spade a spade where it counts.
But it does look like the outdoor magazine is these days becoming more of a......?
Well to be honest I'm not too sure what they are at the moment. And where they fit into the future of media/audience communication.
But at the moment I can't help but feel that something is slipping away from some sectors of the magazine industry.
Once I read the essential monthly copy for information. For new ideas. For education. Now I buy as something to while away a quick twenty or thirty minute journey. Something lightweight.
And before someone points out my previous posts, all based on regular purchase of said items .... the reason I continue to buy Trail and TGO? (subscription just lapsed BTW) Part relevancy to the interests I have on this blog site and part optimism that things will improve.
Occasionally I uncover a gem. Sometimes an article is relevant to my needs. But mostly I end up dissatisfied. A feeling that there has to be more. And as any retailer understands. If you fail to satisfy the punter properly, forget any return trade.
So finally an appeal. Can anyone in any part of the press/print industry throw some light on this at all? (Whether privately or publicly)
I'd even be interested in meeting/visiting any of the mags/editorial teams in an effort to better understand the realities at first hand.
This ones bugging me. I can feel a chill wind blowing and I'd like to see which bugger has left the privy door open.Or is it the new wave blowing on by?
Labels: blog media, TGO Magazine, Trail Magazine
Tuesday, July 10
August Trail items
A couple of quick highlights after just finishing August's copy of Trail Magazine.
Again loads of content, but it tends to dissipate when looking for real detail , or perhaps that's just me expecting too much insight from what is a general outdoor readership mag after all.
An interesting wildcamping article, a little spoilt by 3 up in a tent. I could see the idea behind the article to persuade more women to enjoy the experience, but not the ideal way to be introduced to the concept of "carry light, travel far"
.......first get your great big heavy three (wo)man tent ..............you get the idea.
But to the things that caught my eye:
There's a link to courses run by the Institute of Public Rights of Way, to help manage rights of way issues. I adopted several local footpaths myself many years ago, the premise being walk them regularly to keep legal access rights fresh, and report back on obstructions. I also kept the way marking up, a constant challenge where path and housing estates converge.
On the whole the experience has been positive, although the approach of individual councils tends to vary dependant on their attitude, the location, and more importantly their available budget.
Yet another good reason for some local walking though.
Secondly a quick heads up ..........
If you happen to be planning a camp outdoors 23 July then look to the night sky when the Perseids meteor shower starts, for about a month. Peak time is supposed to be the 12th August, when I know one group of bloggers in particular will hopefully be away from all light pollution, looking to the sky.
One for the diary. Let's hope the weather accommodates accordingly.Labels: Trail Magazine
Sunday, July 1
Trail Challenge over & Keswick's George Fisher sold
It's interesting how one thing can lead to another, and another, and ... etc etc
I was checking the progress of the Trail Magazine Academy trio. Sarah writes: "The Trail thing is now officially over, and looking at the write up of the last expedition in the magazine, I’m quite glad I didn’t go. Looks like they walked a long way carrying a lot of kit and had a very uncomfortable night. I love the outdoors, and I enjoy camping, but I don’t believe in making things even more difficult for yourself! It’s a shame it’s over, and I appear to be the one who got the least out of it, but such is life"
Whatever Trail's intentions on the exercise it looks like some of the backpacking ethos & practice possibly didn't rub off in quite the way it was intended.
And as for the other two guinea pigs. Emma had a proposal of marriage, and Sian found out she was nearly pregnant, for a short while. It all seems to happen on these Trail programs doesn't it!
But they all seemed to have enjoyed the experience, and thanks to Sarah's blog for the tip off concerning the new Trail Gear Blog, which coincidentally appeared to to have hit the web around the time the repackaged TGO Forum/Blogsite was rolled out. Is that's what's called a spoiler in the press trade? Surely not.
As I was checking the links for this post I spotted this piece of recent news concerning the takeover of the highly regarded George Fisher shop in Keswick by the Tiso Group. Trail's news report is here.
Normally this sort of news would have appeared on the outdoor forums, but not a sniff that I've spotted so far. And nothing on GF's own site either (So does that count as a blogger scoop WD?)
As to the news, one commenter has positive comments on Tiso in Edinburgh(Tiso is largely unknown south of the Scottish border) so hopefully GF's excellent service and stocking policy will continue into the future.
And of course the web cam.Labels: blog media, Gear, Lake District, TGO Magazine, Trail Magazine
Wednesday, June 6
TGO website
The new TGO site is now up and running, and quickly filling with high quality content. Highly recommended
(Damn - that's more stuff to read on-line)
The main question - how will the TGO on-line version differ in content from the TGO print version?
I'm looking forward an interesting few months as I was aware Cameron had a 'pack full of ideas, and it's good to see the initiative starting to come into flower. Best of luck.
It'll be interesting to see how Trail/Country Walking respond to this initiative from Cameron's team, bearing in mind the content of some of the recent topics covered. Only coincidental I'm sure.Labels: TGO Magazine, Trail Magazine
Wednesday, May 2
Trail Post - Interesting Response
Hhhmmmm. Interesting.
Visits to this site more than doubled following a couple of comments I left on OM concerning the value of Trail's piece on 'Lightweight Lakes'. All looking at this post.
None felt the need to leave a comment. But the interest level leads me to suspect I may have hit a sympathetic nerve.
Discuss?Labels: blog media, Trail Magazine
Monday, April 30
Trail Magazine - June
Another month, another well laid trap to fall into. Again.
Curses! Clever these publishers. I should have learnt my lesson by now.
Lots of lovely articles to dig into, but once again a sense of deflation. Why is that? A quick glance at the articles:
- Good bit on the new via ferrata route at Honister Hause slate mine
- 'Get into wildcamping' Nice try, but bullet points on a single page - give me a break!
- Philosophy of Lightweight. Interesting, but more content, less double page pictures
- Essential equipment - Ha ha. Got me going there. I was half way through the article before I read 'an adequate supply of water is essential but insufficient' What on earth? Oh right - a sponsored article by the Sugar Bureau aka Designer drinks good; Water bad. Naughty. Very naughty
- Sub 2k tents - reasonable article.
- How to buy a soft shell - with the lead-in stating ".....which is why you need one" Oh. And there's me without one. Heresy. A quick scour of the article and I finally found the answer. In small text. On a green background. Still got no real idea why I 'must' have one. A pity it came across as an order. I don't react well to that sort of approach. Sloppy journalism on an otherwise good article though.
- Eiger history- great bit, this is more like it.
And so on..........
One thought as I dropped it in the recycle rack (after only 1/2 hour reading this month) was a topic that seem to mirror some of my older blog posts (e.g. Walks/Public transport)
Now I've got no monopoly on that idea. After all it's been around for years, but I do recall trying to explain how easily it can be achieved and why. A bit strange to see the number of routes labelled as Public Transport. When did that first start popping up?
This months cover price£3.50; Or £7.00 an hour at my interest level.
And you have this blog all for free. Peachy
Labels: Trail Magazine
Thursday, April 5
TGO, Trail (and the Outdoor Show?)
I'd just finished off May's issue of Trail magazine when postie dropped my copy of TGO onto the doormat. So once more a comparative response due to an accident of timing.
I'd been tempted into buying Trail for the second month in a row by the cover's teaser headings, and a very quick thumb thru before purchase.
It looked good in the shop. But once more I found that I rapidly skipped through it, the chopped-up page layout making it more of a 'dip-into' style, rather than any sort of absorbing read.
But again I felt left with an unsatisfied feeling, and no real reaction to most of the articles, beyond what I've already said about sponsored articles.
The Brecon Beacons routes stuff was ok; Oh and I'll definitely cross a visit to the Dove Crag's Priest's Hole Cave off my list for several months. It wasn't the biggest secret in the Lakeland walks world, but it will attract too much attention now its been included as just another 'great night away'. This Easter weekend should be fun - lol (Just grateful that the other spots I know were overlooked. But perhaps that's why I found them in the first place and continue to use them. Not intended as elitism on my part, more my more solitary enjoyment of the fellside)
TGO was a bit more thought provoking.
For once Jim Perrin's stuff grabbed me, and I wanted to read to the end of his article.
Chris Townsend (as always) delivered the goods, with a thoughtful look at lightweight clothing systems. His point, as I took it, being more about approach to use and mix of clothing, rather than a formulaic Gear A plus Gear B plus Gear C = result. I've already used this mindset successfully last year, shaving pounds of my pack weight by losing the fleece with adding a windproof (Montane Lite-Speed - a real find)
So with both mags put aside, I suddenly realised - not one report about the NEC Outdoors Show in mid April?
Plenty of press beforehand, but no post show round-up? Perhaps the deadline dates for May's copy was too early for the show report, but it leads me to a point I've raised before about one of the roles of the (for want of a better phrase) 'new media'.
The various UK Outdoors Bloggers that attended reported on the event on the day, or within a few days.
The copy may have been at times opinionated and possibly even amateurish, but it did represent a timely man-in-the-street response to what was on offer.
Andy Howell delayed release of the multi podcast reports until earlier this week, possibly while he waited for the return of his technical support guru? (p.s. AH -is the podzine web page detail right, it seems to talk about Harrogate 2006 fair?). Check here if you want to download free of charge.
But from the mags I've read, a recognisable source used by most of the outdoor walking fraternity - nothing. (Anyone out there in magazine world care to respond?)
As I've said before, on-line media is complimentary to established publishing methodology.
But hey sometimes we bloggers do have a definite edge.
Labels: TGO Magazine, Trail Magazine, UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
All site material © John Hee - ask before you snatch
Following my recent piece on Thomas Firbank I'd heard on the grapevine that June's Trail Magazine would include an article on the Welsh 3000s, a challenge originally arising with Firbank and documented in his 1940 book “I Bought A Mountain”.
A pity then that Trail somehow overlooked mentioning the debt owed to Firbank and friends(although Esme gets a slight look in). Instead the focus was more on the opportunity for Trail to become Challenger #1 on Snowdonia Society's 14 Peaks
Err - not a particularly impressive achievement 'Team Trail' if nobody else knows it exists. Especially if that success arrives at the same time as knowledge about the prize.
Whatever.
Happily the Snowdonia Society site provides an accurate history to balance the picture.
Actually, now I come to think about it, much of June's magazine had me spitting. Not least that two of my recent wildcamp areas appeared in their walks section (yes I know they would have done them months before I got there, and at least one is a relatively common area, but it just felt soooooooooooo wrong)
Then there's the article on Wildcamping which left me with a feeling on it all being rather jolly, but also rather off-balance somehow. Especially compared to Dave Mycroft's Outdoors Magic piece on the same subject.
To quote Trail “giving out exact grid references are a no-no because sites tend to get overused, so here are a few grid squares for you to hunt for a spot in”.
Next to a 4 digit grid ref and the name Red Tarn.
Err - the point of wildcamping is camping in the wild. Not watching the party animals whooping it up on the other side of the tarn, having picked up the camp site courtesy of an earlier WHSmith stop on the M6.
Argh!
I give up.
Is it just me who finds Trail Mag rapidly turning into a comic as it tries to ride the current Craze for (cheap) camping breaks?
Especially now the Credit Cr*p has made it all so very trendy in the media at present.
Labels: books, Trail Magazine, Wales
Podcast News
Now my Dartmoor trip write-up is complete (warts and all - but the whole truth whatever you may read elsewhere!) its time to catch up with other news, whilst I chew over a few of the thoughts that popped up over the weekend.
I've an anniversary, of sorts, coming up soon. So perhaps its time for one of my more reflective mumblings. But that's for later.
Today a bit of entertainment for the weekend. Podcast Bob has been at it again.
Firstly there's his exclusive interview with Mick & Gayle fresh from their successful LeJoG trip. I listened to it on my way to Dartmoor, and a few hours later had the good fortune to be speaking to them face to face. The interview is well worth listening to if you don't happen to have them in your living room.
Mick & Gayle LEJOG 2008
(or right click & 'Save Target As' using this link to download)
And hard on its heels Bob has started his reports from the 2008 Friedrichshafen Outdoor Trade Fair. If true to its usual reputation this show sets the trends for the UK outdoor market next year - so get in there first folks.
Friedrichshafen (Part One)
(or right click & 'Save Target As' using this link to download)Labels: LEJOG, Outdoors Show, Trail Magazine
Saturday, March 29
2008: Blogs & the 'traditional' press (Part 2)
I left the first part of this article hanging with a question…
"What about the hard working print journalist, with a network of contacts, providing that essential conduit between manufacturer/organisation and getting their product/news to you the public? If the print press does fade away, surely the quality of the information provided will similarly degrade?"
This reminded me of some material hanging around in my Ideas-Box. Some of these ideas quietly slip into oblivion as their relevancy fades with the passage of time. But this one insisted on being aired. Possibly this was rattling around the emptier recesses of my mind as the first part of this piece laid itself out onto this screen.
So, if I may, a brief diversion off the main track before attempting to weave its relevancy back onto the path.
Nick Davies's Guardian piece (Feb 08) is scathing in his damnation of lazy journalism. Aiming straight between the eyes he charges "our tendency to recycle ignorance is far worse than it was…80% (of articles) …were wholly, mainly or partially constructed from second-hand material, provided by news agencies and by the public relations industry"
In summarising his research based on material covering many years of UK based media he goes even further:
"Where once journalists were active gatherers of news, now they have generally become mere passive processors of unchecked, second-hand material, much of it contrived by PR to serve some political or commercial interest. Not journalists, but churnalists. An industry whose primary task is to filter out falsehood has become so vulnerable to manipulation that it is now involved in the mass production of falsehood, distortion and propaganda"
Very hard words.
The source of his material commissioned from Cardiff University provides some interesting facts:
* 2 out 3 media reports relate back to PR/Press wire sources
* 2/3rds of the typical morning newspaper used the same basic material, with many poorly researched, if at all, and probably not even re-edited or revised
* 49% of stories are straight press feed/wire copy
* 60% of stories rely wholly or mainly on pre-packaged info
In mitigation it is pointed out that a daily newspaper is now three times the size of 20 years ago. And with no corresponding increase in staff the difficulties in filling this additional space can be considerable. Tying the journalist to an office keyboard rather than out news gathering/checking as once was their role.
Damning stuff for the Grub Street of today.
Right, diversion over. Back to the main path.
Let's apply this to the Outdoor Magazine sector. Whilst undoubtedly the economics of the publishing industry cannot avoid the general industry trend (pages up; staff small), those I've encountered manage to maintain an ethical approach to their craft. News itself forms only a small part of each month's copy. The majority of main content requires old style journalism. Gear is reviewed through personal use; Issues are researched, opinions formed and then delivered with a balanced hand. Political agenda, rarely raised, is carefully handled and usually acknowledged in a relatively classless manner, although the Big Landowner v Small Man debate will be aired on occasions, with the magazine taking the Small Man's position.
So hopefully not all is as black as at first suspected.
However underlying much of the content is the reality that most magazines these days survive not through readership numbers but advertising. There's little evidence to suggest a review will be positive just because the manufacturer places Ads in the same magazine. And that's unlike rumours to the contrary made in other publishing sectors. For one, the items concerned are typically of low value when compared to such items as the price of, let's say, a new car.
But still the reality is that gear tests mostly rely on easy and early access to outdoor kit; Regular involvement with the provider's PR, Marketing & Technical teams; And a careful balancing of the feed-provider/information-distributor.
To their credit this is something that the Outdoor publications seem to pull off. Or so it fees as a reader of much of their output over the years. If there is a retail tie-in then its stated, and its rare that any favouritism appears. Impartiality is still a very Big Word amongst the Outdoor Press.
(The main exception I regularly rail against on here is the monthly Trail/British Sugar Industry article. It may be flagged with a suitable warning. But the times I've been part way through the article; Smelt a rat; And paused to check the by-line; Only to realise I'm reading an 'industry information' piece recommending Sugar. That damages the magazine's relationship with me, the reader, each time it happens)
But what of the Blog & Podcast?
Let's get this fact out straight away. We're amateurs. Most Bloggers normally start off with few outdoor 'contacts'. It’s our real day job that provides the money to live and eat, and that's not necessarily involved with any of the Outdoor Industry. Hence content is initially based on what goes on around us, that may catch our interest. What we see, do and think.
As time passes contacts and networks naturally build if so desired. Sometimes within the outdoor retail sector, but more immediately with those Outdoor Organisations we are part of, or become involved, with as our passion and interest takes us further afield.
Often such links bring an opportunity for better gear/issues reports. But here I believe the Outdoor Blogger departs from our print based counterpart.
Most gear reviews require kit bought or borrowed using our own cash. Stuff that interests, that can be put to extend periods of use (and misuse) and reflected on. Sometimes that may be with a degree of natural bias (boots v trail shoes) but mostly reported as a typical customer who's parted with hard £££s, has limited choice, and requires kit to do what it says on the tin.
And if opportunities do arise for such gear to be provided gratis by the outdoor retail industry, those same instincts remain. If something stinks, then the smell will be aired in public. Mitigated with due regard to the source, but unencumbered by too much concern over 'biting the hand that feeds'.
There is no bigger picture to consider. No organisation or income stream to safeguard. And no protection either.
Each individual's Blog is their own personal investment. It can stop, grow, or stagnate on whim. And if the content becomes rabid trash with a marked biased then readership will dwindle; And usually the Blogger's desire to continue declines. (I'll ignore the paparazzi/gossip Blogs here!)
It is certainly helpful to get easier access to equipment, especially if normally unobtainable due to price or availability. But few of us would ever review something because We Must. It is because the item will be of personal interest and curiosity. For we are Owner, Editor, Writer and Publisher all at the same time. We get to choose.
PR/Marketing contacts can undoubtedly ease much of the basic access & research. But for us simple folk any regurgitation of the copy-writer's snake-oil wordage is noticeable. Any product placement that may occur is down to the social and fashion drivers we, as part of the outdoor public, are all subject to. But similarly there are those amongst our number who will regularly go against the prevailing trend. Indeed on any given topic you'll usually find a whole range of opinion, or lack of, across the Outdoor Blogs leaving you as reader to make up your own mind based on a wide discussion of the issues involved.
If you like, it’s the ultimate pub conversation. But readily available on-line from your home most days. And with the option to turn away to another source if the content is uninteresting.
So turning back to the original question "If the print press does fade away, surely the quality of the information provided will similarly degrade?"
Maybe - but is the alternative before you any worse? Or is its delivery & content of more relevance for today's audience?
Time will tell. And also, I suspect, the effect of continuing to maintain a low cost alternative.
The majority of Outdoor Blogs steer clear of carrying any form of income generators (Click through Ads; Google AdSense; Retail links etc) But as the on-line format matures there is the reality for many of us to maintain and improve quality content. And for that the present self-financing will continue to be challenged if it is to develop.
How to do that without losing the hard fought integrity that is being slowly built? I wonder how you as a reader may feel about that? Will we see a ceiling on the type of content provided, limited by cash, time and hobby blog status? Or will Blogs that go beyond this risk becoming too closely compared with the print media's own dilemma? Content v Income Generation = Continued Survival.
Print or on-line its clear the content provider shares many of the same information resources, but not necessarily the same problems. Not yet at least.
The attraction of the established magazine for the Outdoor reader will remain, I'm sure. But the flexibility and variety of the Outdoor Blog scene will continue to grow and exert an influence.
And that leaves you, as the consumer, firmly in the driving seat.
From this Blogger's view that's a Good Thing as your interaction with this medium can directly and quickly influence the content you see far better than any remote Market Survey will ever manage.
Ramble over. Normal service will be resumed with immediate effect.
Labels: blog media, TGO Magazine, Trail Magazine
Wednesday, March 26
2008: Blogs & the 'traditional' press (Part 1)
About a year ago I posted an article considering the impact of outdoor blogs alongside the UK's traditional print magazines. Whilst questioning the role blogs played I concluded that it was an alternative format. One still finding its feet. But also very capable of offering things that the paper press weren't able to deliver - speed of news items, article relevancy, targeted readership.
It's been a busy year since. There's been innovation on the hard copy side with publishers setting up or rebadging magazine websites; Experimenting with podcast, vidcast and digital magazine formats.
Meanwhile the majority of UK based Outdoor Bloggers, coming together under the auspices of the OutdoorBloggers.com have welcomed new members, and provided a strong support network for those seeking to get started, looking to improve their chosen craft, or just happy to be amongst a like minded community. With over 55 members it may not sound huge. But it represents the majority of those in the UK actively blogging on outdoor related matters. Specifically walking/wildcamping, but also including other outdoor interests. And using a range of methods to present the information on-line.
Any regular reader of these blogs could not have failed to notice comprehensive coverage of such things as the Outdoors Show. Providing a level of detail and reflection to a depth that just wouldn't be possible within a magazine issue. And more importantly making it available whilst the information remained fresh and relevant.
Tellingly, what the magazines may have to report is still awaited.
A throw away comment from one blogger made me return to my original piece to remind myself of circulation figures and to confirm the latest position. And all does not look good in print magazine land at present.
Anyone following the Lad's Mags (Maxim, Loaded, FHQ) circulation news will already be aware that their market share has been plummeting as their market audience moves away to other interests.
And whilst the outdoor sphere has always been of a less flighty nature, the comparative figures for 2006 & 2007 are worrying. Once again using the magazine industry's benchmark, the Audit Bureau of Circulations (the little ABC you sometimes see inside the magazine cover) and with due recognition of ABC copyright ownership a quick reprise of the state of the market using 2007 figures against those 2006 representative titles
Mag: TRAIL
Circulation : 39,349 (2006 - 40,552 - 3% drop)
Cost: £3.70 (2006 - £3.50 - 6% increase)
Subscription: 38% of copies sold (2006 - 41% - 3 % drop)
Mag: COUNTRY WALKING
Circulation : 44,549 (2006 - 46,849 - 5% drop)
Cost: £3.70 (2006 - £3.50 - 6% increase)
Subscription: 42% of copies sold (2006 - 43% - 1% drop)
Mag: TGO
Circulation : 10,705 (2006 - 11,368 - 6% drop)
Cost: £3.40 (2006 - £3.30 - 3% increase)
Subscribers: 31% of copies sold (2006 - 38% - 7 % drop)
And the alternative outdoor offerings?
Magazine : WALK
Circulation : 105,168 (2006 - 105,809 - 1% drop)
Cost: n/a
Subscribers: n/a
Magazine : CUMBRIA
Circulation : 12,505 (2006 - 13,043 - 4% drop)
Cost: £1.99 (2006 - £1.85 - 8% increase)
Subscribers: 58% (2006 - 56% - 2 % increase)
Across all titles, even including the Rambler's Association Walk Magazine (part of the membership deal), there has been a loss of readership, accompanied by a loss of subscribers. Except for Cumbria, which I suspect has a huge readership outside of the Lakes, and naturally tends towards subscription for its circulation.
All the magazines, as you’d expect, have had a cover price increase. But that doesn’t appear to directly relate to readership loss with TGO hardest hit despite the lowest price change.
Across the big three UK magazines (Trail; Country Walking; TGO) total readership has dropped from 98,769 to 94,603
Similar figures for blog readership are notoriously difficult to acquire. But here's some rough figures based on average monthly visitors and a variety of different and regularly followed blogs (via RSS feeds- say 10 and 20 blogs)
A minimum audience of 15,000 and a maximum in excess of 30,000.
(But please - this is a very rough estimate based on very little hard fact, just feedback from my own site stats and a few others balanced against repeat visits throughout a "average" month. I wouldn’t want this taken as more than a poor indicator for comparative purposes)
So where has 4% of the 2006 print readership wandered off to? And what does this mean for those newer magazines such as Active Magazine launched back in Feb just in time for the NEC Show?
Perhaps, similar to the advent of multiple digital TV channels the traditional mass audience has started to peel away. To follow stations geared to their own niche interests.
Or possibly, with lifestyle choice and shifting population demographics, the target readership has moved off to other things (But considering the level of mainstream press publicity given to reports on obesity and walking for fitness & good health one should expect the opposite?)
Or perhaps the print magazine is facing an increasingly web enabled audience. One who select their information sources to match their leisure activity niches, at a time and place of their choosing. And one that more immediately meets their need?.
We are constantly reminded that we live in a fast and ever changing world. The expectations of the present generations are radically different from those of only ten years ago.
As an alternative form of information, entertainment & communication 2007 has undoubtedly seen the consolidation of the Outdoor Blog as one format amongst many alternatives. And hopefully those involved have lifted their game to consider both regular readership, but also those coming new to the genre.
So for 2008:
Outdoor Blogs - still an alternative.
Definitely standing upright; And showing commitment to what they deliver.
But the question remains -are they a replacement for the traditional press?
As a committed reader of outdoor magazines, but on a less regular basis than in the past, I hope they continue. But edgy times indeed for those involved in static and cost heavy businesses.
And what about the hard working print journalist, with a network of contacts and providing that essential conduit between manufacturer/organisation and getting their product/news to you the public? If the print press does fade away, surely the quality of the information provided will similarly degrade?
Well - maybe not as much as you would think. A subject I will return to with the concluding part of this piece coming sometime during the next week.
(Well - you think this stuff is quick to produce? There is the day job to consider after all!)Labels: blog media, TGO Magazine, Trail Magazine
Tuesday, March 25
UK Walking Magazine - The Little Death?
As ever, one little teeny weeny Google query seems to have led to another, and another, and .........well you get the general idea by now I'm sure.
There's something rather smelly happening in the UK Outdoor magazine world. Possibly reflective of the traditional print media, as a whole?
More to follow in the next few days once I've dug a little deeper.Labels: blog media, media, TGO Magazine, Trail Magazine
Sunday, March 9
TGO & Trail Magazine; And what's a 'Heat Exchange Mask' then?
Pre the Outdoor Show I decided to take a look at the latest outdoor magazines. Well, when I say take a look what I really mean is buy rather than spend 5 minutes in the local W.H. Smith's library, flicking through the increasingly expensive offerings (well compared to the time it takes me to read them at least!)
I've rather given up on these mags over the winter months as the content had become a little staid.
Trail was easy to locate (WHS naturally) but TGO was a b*gger to chase down. No thanks to the newsagent in the centre of Christchurch who kindly informed me here was "No demand for walking magazines around this area" Well why was I asking for one then? But a similar request at a small shop in Bransgore, after one of my New Forest wanders earlier today turned up both a knowledgeable newsagent, and nice shiny copy.
And happily well worth the search.
I don't know what the team at TGO may have been imbibing recently but the magazine is back on form with a Bang. Entertaining, informative and challenging. And as editor Cameron McNeish intimated in the prerelease vidcast trailer, if Eddy Meechan carries on like he's started off already there's plenty of sparks ready to fly. I had to admit the heat exchange mask made me laugh at first. But then I read the article and thought - well why not? (and AS has his own view here)
And that is what we buy a magazine for surely? To learn and to challenge accepted opinion; And then to make up our own minds.
TGO 1; Trail 0;
No contest.
And that's despite the NEC Blogger Meet-up being publicised as one of the attractions of the Outdoors Show though. Would have been nice to have been asked beforehand? And I guess the Jennings stand may have some thoughts on that one as well. Which we may find out on the day I guess ( Naughty naughty)Labels: media, NEC Outdoors Show, TGO Magazine, Trail Magazine
Monday, August 6
Timeless Flight - A second bite
And whilst I'm playing catch-up on recent articles, there has been some thoughtful responses about the status of Outdoor magazines.
Lighthiker made an interesting point, which I've heard before, and would mostly agree with. But I think there's more to it than at first glance:
"People have the idea that the Internet is "free" and wouldn't pay for a subscription of a website the same price they pay for the printed magazine. And to some extent I also need to blame bloggers like myself. I post about gear. I make no money out of it and people can read it for free. So if they find the info they want let's say about the latest tents on my blog or others why buying a printed magazine? The only thing that can make a difference would be big in-depth tests and some kind of premium (and I mean premium) content which differs them from what is available for free online. ................ Not many advertisers would move online as their ad will be easier overlooked/clicked away and magazines can't charge them the same rates for online advertising compared to the printed version.Things might change over time when the Internet becomes so cheap and accessible that everybody can use it all the time at every place and the reading habits change also. It will come but probably is 5-10 years from now"
I'd especially agree on the "Internet= Free" model. Would Podcast Bob's excellent output have the same appeal if the podcasts were chargeable? An issue I know Bob continues to tussle with.
For these sort of things I always look to the prime example of supply and demand in action. One of the oldest commercial concerns in the communication medias. It was straight in there as soon as the pictures and the written word started to be used for mass communication.
It is of course the Sex Industry.
Whatever your personal feelings about the product for sale their providers work in one of the strongest surviving markets. And one of the most cut throat and pressured. It is one that's continued to survive despite the attempts of law, social disapproval and religious stricture. Sex sells, as advertisers spend so many dreary millions of $$$$ trying hard to avoid telling us (subtle ads; trick story lines; subliminal messages etc)
But as an industry they are very early adopters in communication and retail environments.
And much as Playboy print magazine of the 50s eventually became a household name, a designer label, and a mult media industry, the modern day spawn of the porn sites were on the net early, and have tried most of the tricks in the book to make websites pay. Even inventing a few new ones along the way, some legitimate, some particularly odious.
Ditto digital TV/view on demand etc - a marketplace in which the big corporations are still very much feeling their way at present.
BTW I'm not suggesting that we should try to make too close a comparison between the outdoor industry here!
But consider some key elements from that sphere.........
- The way in which the print format has adopted certain facets of the digital media, whilst still retaining some of the traditional format, for non adopters, but with a revised demand model and pricing structure.
- The adoption of real time information feeds e.g. webcam
- Interaction with the demand points i.e. Joe Public via a variety of alternatives (e.g. mobile phones)
- Free site content as a loss leader to a subscription model
- Ease of use
- E-tail spin-off business targeting a High Street audience, without the legislative issues or premise overhead. Or the social disapproval.
...... etc etc
I'm no expert in this area- no honestly! But any one who has experienced the Internet for more than a simple usage quickly finds it difficult to avoid a variety of content delivery all trying their independent methods of making that elusive buck. The sex/porn industry, despite its lack of general social acceptability (in fact possibly because of that?) has been by far the one with the most widespread impact globally across the web. And one of the biggest money takers I suspect.
As I said earlier. Watch the model, not the product. Some sales will always be easier. Some models less complex.
But learn from the successful and adapt to your own concern.
"It will come but probably is 5-10 years from now"
I'd say that's already here for some retailers. The question is whether established product providers adopt, adapt, or maybe even just avoid. Labels: blog media, TGO Magazine, Trail Magazine
Friday, August 3
Timeless Flight. Have Outdoor Magazines met their nadir?
An unexpected delay on my flight back during a business trip earlier today gave me the dubious opportunity to sit in Liverpool Airport reading the September copy of Trail magazine.
Dubious?
Well with rather too many long hours to while away there was a temptation to read and reread the magazine sat in my lap. Or even to critically assess the content, presentation and format. Which is a little unfair on my part really because Trail Magazine is honestly not that sort of reading material. It never pretends to be a 'work of art' for critical analysis, but a monthly outdoor mag ("The UK's biggest selling hill-walking magazine") to provide information whilst remaining entertaining.
And as I sit here tip-tip-tapping into my faithful Psion 5, the flight has just been called (finally), so I'd better make this a very quick round-up, and clean it up back at home (which I'm now doing)
I'd have to say that Trail is not only a little light on content, but is starting to lay itself open to the accusation of being noticeably dated with some articles. For instance - a couple of references to Steve Perry's charity trip (aborted prematurely at the start of last week), a circular route over Caldbeck Fells the pictures showing a frozen landscape (so how long ago was that trip then?)
I do appreciate the unavoidable delay between putting the issue to bed, and distributing the printed article to the retailer. But how long is the delay, and does it remain acceptable these days? After all newspapers appear each morning based on the previous day's happenings.
I assume the advantage of delayed release for magazines is more financially motivated, but how long are we talking here?
But I digress. Back to the plot JH.
I'd forgive the Perry ref as just being one of those timing things, but in general the relevancy if some articles is becoming an issue these days with 3-4 month article lead times appearing quite common. And news? Well it isn't really. As Perry's mishap unintentionally proved.
I'm sure if I looked a little closer I'd discover this is not an issue limited just to Trail, or even the Outdoor magazine sector. Why as a reading public are we paying highish prices (Trail-£3.50) for something that is not necessarily a reflection of the season and outdoor experiences we ourselves are having?
Or to put it another way. Why on the 3rd day of August am I reading a magazine marked September, but based on articles compiled, at my guess, sometime in March/April? A six month gap?
I repeat this is not aimed at Trail magazine per se. That esteemed publishing team continue to attract a strong readership so are obviously meeting a demand from numerous readers. But there comes a point when the accumulation of the cost for three or four months mags may be better spent on (say) a reference/route guide to Scotland in a book form. And that at least would be something I'd keep and use later. As opposed to stockpiling old mags for years, and finally throwing them away finding no-one else to take them on. That was a moment of satori, and a weight off the attic woodwork, when I realised I'd never referred to one back issue in all the time I'd kept them. Not once.
Well that may say more about me, or what I expect these days from the publishing industry.
Even the on-line version of TGO took a couple of days to post about Steve Perry, although I suspect they were waiting for comment from Steve himself.
Or perhaps I'm becoming more demanding as an increasing amount of news and reviews are via websites, outdoor forums, and yes you've guess it - Blogs. All immediate medias. Quality and veracity of course varying tremendously. But a cross section of views and feedback offers me much more of a consensus view. And usually some come back to the individuals concerned.
But mostly I expect to read far more critical and detailed reviews, based on real life use, on the net. There's no advertiser's to be wary of (and no matter how independent the mag that is always a consideration to some extent. It's only human nature after all) There are expectations to this of course - Judy Armstrong/Chris Townsend being very good at calling a spade a spade where it counts.
But it does look like the outdoor magazine is these days becoming more of a......?
Well to be honest I'm not too sure what they are at the moment. And where they fit into the future of media/audience communication.
But at the moment I can't help but feel that something is slipping away from some sectors of the magazine industry.
Once I read the essential monthly copy for information. For new ideas. For education. Now I buy as something to while away a quick twenty or thirty minute journey. Something lightweight.
And before someone points out my previous posts, all based on regular purchase of said items .... the reason I continue to buy Trail and TGO? (subscription just lapsed BTW) Part relevancy to the interests I have on this blog site and part optimism that things will improve.
Occasionally I uncover a gem. Sometimes an article is relevant to my needs. But mostly I end up dissatisfied. A feeling that there has to be more. And as any retailer understands. If you fail to satisfy the punter properly, forget any return trade.
So finally an appeal. Can anyone in any part of the press/print industry throw some light on this at all? (Whether privately or publicly)
I'd even be interested in meeting/visiting any of the mags/editorial teams in an effort to better understand the realities at first hand.
This ones bugging me. I can feel a chill wind blowing and I'd like to see which bugger has left the privy door open.Or is it the new wave blowing on by?
Labels: blog media, TGO Magazine, Trail Magazine
Tuesday, July 10
August Trail items
A couple of quick highlights after just finishing August's copy of Trail Magazine.
Again loads of content, but it tends to dissipate when looking for real detail , or perhaps that's just me expecting too much insight from what is a general outdoor readership mag after all.
An interesting wildcamping article, a little spoilt by 3 up in a tent. I could see the idea behind the article to persuade more women to enjoy the experience, but not the ideal way to be introduced to the concept of "carry light, travel far"
.......first get your great big heavy three (wo)man tent ..............you get the idea.
But to the things that caught my eye:
There's a link to courses run by the Institute of Public Rights of Way, to help manage rights of way issues. I adopted several local footpaths myself many years ago, the premise being walk them regularly to keep legal access rights fresh, and report back on obstructions. I also kept the way marking up, a constant challenge where path and housing estates converge.
On the whole the experience has been positive, although the approach of individual councils tends to vary dependant on their attitude, the location, and more importantly their available budget.
Yet another good reason for some local walking though.
Secondly a quick heads up ..........
If you happen to be planning a camp outdoors 23 July then look to the night sky when the Perseids meteor shower starts, for about a month. Peak time is supposed to be the 12th August, when I know one group of bloggers in particular will hopefully be away from all light pollution, looking to the sky.
One for the diary. Let's hope the weather accommodates accordingly.Labels: Trail Magazine
Sunday, July 1
Trail Challenge over & Keswick's George Fisher sold
It's interesting how one thing can lead to another, and another, and ... etc etc
I was checking the progress of the Trail Magazine Academy trio. Sarah writes: "The Trail thing is now officially over, and looking at the write up of the last expedition in the magazine, I’m quite glad I didn’t go. Looks like they walked a long way carrying a lot of kit and had a very uncomfortable night. I love the outdoors, and I enjoy camping, but I don’t believe in making things even more difficult for yourself! It’s a shame it’s over, and I appear to be the one who got the least out of it, but such is life"
Whatever Trail's intentions on the exercise it looks like some of the backpacking ethos & practice possibly didn't rub off in quite the way it was intended.
And as for the other two guinea pigs. Emma had a proposal of marriage, and Sian found out she was nearly pregnant, for a short while. It all seems to happen on these Trail programs doesn't it!
But they all seemed to have enjoyed the experience, and thanks to Sarah's blog for the tip off concerning the new Trail Gear Blog, which coincidentally appeared to to have hit the web around the time the repackaged TGO Forum/Blogsite was rolled out. Is that's what's called a spoiler in the press trade? Surely not.
As I was checking the links for this post I spotted this piece of recent news concerning the takeover of the highly regarded George Fisher shop in Keswick by the Tiso Group. Trail's news report is here.
Normally this sort of news would have appeared on the outdoor forums, but not a sniff that I've spotted so far. And nothing on GF's own site either (So does that count as a blogger scoop WD?)
As to the news, one commenter has positive comments on Tiso in Edinburgh(Tiso is largely unknown south of the Scottish border) so hopefully GF's excellent service and stocking policy will continue into the future.
And of course the web cam.Labels: blog media, Gear, Lake District, TGO Magazine, Trail Magazine
Wednesday, June 6
TGO website
The new TGO site is now up and running, and quickly filling with high quality content. Highly recommended
(Damn - that's more stuff to read on-line)
The main question - how will the TGO on-line version differ in content from the TGO print version?
I'm looking forward an interesting few months as I was aware Cameron had a 'pack full of ideas, and it's good to see the initiative starting to come into flower. Best of luck.
It'll be interesting to see how Trail/Country Walking respond to this initiative from Cameron's team, bearing in mind the content of some of the recent topics covered. Only coincidental I'm sure.Labels: TGO Magazine, Trail Magazine
Wednesday, May 2
Trail Post - Interesting Response
Hhhmmmm. Interesting.
Visits to this site more than doubled following a couple of comments I left on OM concerning the value of Trail's piece on 'Lightweight Lakes'. All looking at this post.
None felt the need to leave a comment. But the interest level leads me to suspect I may have hit a sympathetic nerve.
Discuss?Labels: blog media, Trail Magazine
Monday, April 30
Trail Magazine - June
Another month, another well laid trap to fall into. Again.
Curses! Clever these publishers. I should have learnt my lesson by now.
Lots of lovely articles to dig into, but once again a sense of deflation. Why is that? A quick glance at the articles:
- Good bit on the new via ferrata route at Honister Hause slate mine
- 'Get into wildcamping' Nice try, but bullet points on a single page - give me a break!
- Philosophy of Lightweight. Interesting, but more content, less double page pictures
- Essential equipment - Ha ha. Got me going there. I was half way through the article before I read 'an adequate supply of water is essential but insufficient' What on earth? Oh right - a sponsored article by the Sugar Bureau aka Designer drinks good; Water bad. Naughty. Very naughty
- Sub 2k tents - reasonable article.
- How to buy a soft shell - with the lead-in stating ".....which is why you need one" Oh. And there's me without one. Heresy. A quick scour of the article and I finally found the answer. In small text. On a green background. Still got no real idea why I 'must' have one. A pity it came across as an order. I don't react well to that sort of approach. Sloppy journalism on an otherwise good article though.
- Eiger history- great bit, this is more like it.
And so on..........
One thought as I dropped it in the recycle rack (after only 1/2 hour reading this month) was a topic that seem to mirror some of my older blog posts (e.g. Walks/Public transport)
Now I've got no monopoly on that idea. After all it's been around for years, but I do recall trying to explain how easily it can be achieved and why. A bit strange to see the number of routes labelled as Public Transport. When did that first start popping up?
This months cover price£3.50; Or £7.00 an hour at my interest level.
And you have this blog all for free. Peachy
Labels: Trail Magazine
Thursday, April 5
TGO, Trail (and the Outdoor Show?)
I'd just finished off May's issue of Trail magazine when postie dropped my copy of TGO onto the doormat. So once more a comparative response due to an accident of timing.
I'd been tempted into buying Trail for the second month in a row by the cover's teaser headings, and a very quick thumb thru before purchase.
It looked good in the shop. But once more I found that I rapidly skipped through it, the chopped-up page layout making it more of a 'dip-into' style, rather than any sort of absorbing read.
But again I felt left with an unsatisfied feeling, and no real reaction to most of the articles, beyond what I've already said about sponsored articles.
The Brecon Beacons routes stuff was ok; Oh and I'll definitely cross a visit to the Dove Crag's Priest's Hole Cave off my list for several months. It wasn't the biggest secret in the Lakeland walks world, but it will attract too much attention now its been included as just another 'great night away'. This Easter weekend should be fun - lol (Just grateful that the other spots I know were overlooked. But perhaps that's why I found them in the first place and continue to use them. Not intended as elitism on my part, more my more solitary enjoyment of the fellside)
TGO was a bit more thought provoking.
For once Jim Perrin's stuff grabbed me, and I wanted to read to the end of his article.
Chris Townsend (as always) delivered the goods, with a thoughtful look at lightweight clothing systems. His point, as I took it, being more about approach to use and mix of clothing, rather than a formulaic Gear A plus Gear B plus Gear C = result. I've already used this mindset successfully last year, shaving pounds of my pack weight by losing the fleece with adding a windproof (Montane Lite-Speed - a real find)
So with both mags put aside, I suddenly realised - not one report about the NEC Outdoors Show in mid April?
Plenty of press beforehand, but no post show round-up? Perhaps the deadline dates for May's copy was too early for the show report, but it leads me to a point I've raised before about one of the roles of the (for want of a better phrase) 'new media'.
The various UK Outdoors Bloggers that attended reported on the event on the day, or within a few days.
The copy may have been at times opinionated and possibly even amateurish, but it did represent a timely man-in-the-street response to what was on offer.
Andy Howell delayed release of the multi podcast reports until earlier this week, possibly while he waited for the return of his technical support guru? (p.s. AH -is the podzine web page detail right, it seems to talk about Harrogate 2006 fair?). Check here if you want to download free of charge.
But from the mags I've read, a recognisable source used by most of the outdoor walking fraternity - nothing. (Anyone out there in magazine world care to respond?)
As I've said before, on-line media is complimentary to established publishing methodology.
But hey sometimes we bloggers do have a definite edge.
Labels: TGO Magazine, Trail Magazine, UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
All site material © John Hee - ask before you snatch
I've an anniversary, of sorts, coming up soon. So perhaps its time for one of my more reflective mumblings. But that's for later.
Today a bit of entertainment for the weekend. Podcast Bob has been at it again.
Firstly there's his exclusive interview with Mick & Gayle fresh from their successful LeJoG trip. I listened to it on my way to Dartmoor, and a few hours later had the good fortune to be speaking to them face to face. The interview is well worth listening to if you don't happen to have them in your living room.
Mick & Gayle LEJOG 2008
(or right click & 'Save Target As' using this link to download)
And hard on its heels Bob has started his reports from the 2008 Friedrichshafen Outdoor Trade Fair. If true to its usual reputation this show sets the trends for the UK outdoor market next year - so get in there first folks.
Friedrichshafen (Part One)
(or right click & 'Save Target As' using this link to download)
Labels: LEJOG, Outdoors Show, Trail Magazine
2008: Blogs & the 'traditional' press (Part 2)
I left the first part of this article hanging with a question…
"What about the hard working print journalist, with a network of contacts, providing that essential conduit between manufacturer/organisation and getting their product/news to you the public? If the print press does fade away, surely the quality of the information provided will similarly degrade?"
This reminded me of some material hanging around in my Ideas-Box. Some of these ideas quietly slip into oblivion as their relevancy fades with the passage of time. But this one insisted on being aired. Possibly this was rattling around the emptier recesses of my mind as the first part of this piece laid itself out onto this screen.
So, if I may, a brief diversion off the main track before attempting to weave its relevancy back onto the path.
Nick Davies's Guardian piece (Feb 08) is scathing in his damnation of lazy journalism. Aiming straight between the eyes he charges "our tendency to recycle ignorance is far worse than it was…80% (of articles) …were wholly, mainly or partially constructed from second-hand material, provided by news agencies and by the public relations industry"
In summarising his research based on material covering many years of UK based media he goes even further:
"Where once journalists were active gatherers of news, now they have generally become mere passive processors of unchecked, second-hand material, much of it contrived by PR to serve some political or commercial interest. Not journalists, but churnalists. An industry whose primary task is to filter out falsehood has become so vulnerable to manipulation that it is now involved in the mass production of falsehood, distortion and propaganda"
Very hard words.
The source of his material commissioned from Cardiff University provides some interesting facts:
* 2 out 3 media reports relate back to PR/Press wire sources
* 2/3rds of the typical morning newspaper used the same basic material, with many poorly researched, if at all, and probably not even re-edited or revised
* 49% of stories are straight press feed/wire copy
* 60% of stories rely wholly or mainly on pre-packaged info
In mitigation it is pointed out that a daily newspaper is now three times the size of 20 years ago. And with no corresponding increase in staff the difficulties in filling this additional space can be considerable. Tying the journalist to an office keyboard rather than out news gathering/checking as once was their role.
Damning stuff for the Grub Street of today.
Right, diversion over. Back to the main path.
Let's apply this to the Outdoor Magazine sector. Whilst undoubtedly the economics of the publishing industry cannot avoid the general industry trend (pages up; staff small), those I've encountered manage to maintain an ethical approach to their craft. News itself forms only a small part of each month's copy. The majority of main content requires old style journalism. Gear is reviewed through personal use; Issues are researched, opinions formed and then delivered with a balanced hand. Political agenda, rarely raised, is carefully handled and usually acknowledged in a relatively classless manner, although the Big Landowner v Small Man debate will be aired on occasions, with the magazine taking the Small Man's position.
So hopefully not all is as black as at first suspected.
However underlying much of the content is the reality that most magazines these days survive not through readership numbers but advertising. There's little evidence to suggest a review will be positive just because the manufacturer places Ads in the same magazine. And that's unlike rumours to the contrary made in other publishing sectors. For one, the items concerned are typically of low value when compared to such items as the price of, let's say, a new car.
But still the reality is that gear tests mostly rely on easy and early access to outdoor kit; Regular involvement with the provider's PR, Marketing & Technical teams; And a careful balancing of the feed-provider/information-distributor.
To their credit this is something that the Outdoor publications seem to pull off. Or so it fees as a reader of much of their output over the years. If there is a retail tie-in then its stated, and its rare that any favouritism appears. Impartiality is still a very Big Word amongst the Outdoor Press.
(The main exception I regularly rail against on here is the monthly Trail/British Sugar Industry article. It may be flagged with a suitable warning. But the times I've been part way through the article; Smelt a rat; And paused to check the by-line; Only to realise I'm reading an 'industry information' piece recommending Sugar. That damages the magazine's relationship with me, the reader, each time it happens)
But what of the Blog & Podcast?
Let's get this fact out straight away. We're amateurs. Most Bloggers normally start off with few outdoor 'contacts'. It’s our real day job that provides the money to live and eat, and that's not necessarily involved with any of the Outdoor Industry. Hence content is initially based on what goes on around us, that may catch our interest. What we see, do and think.
As time passes contacts and networks naturally build if so desired. Sometimes within the outdoor retail sector, but more immediately with those Outdoor Organisations we are part of, or become involved, with as our passion and interest takes us further afield.
Often such links bring an opportunity for better gear/issues reports. But here I believe the Outdoor Blogger departs from our print based counterpart.
Most gear reviews require kit bought or borrowed using our own cash. Stuff that interests, that can be put to extend periods of use (and misuse) and reflected on. Sometimes that may be with a degree of natural bias (boots v trail shoes) but mostly reported as a typical customer who's parted with hard £££s, has limited choice, and requires kit to do what it says on the tin.
And if opportunities do arise for such gear to be provided gratis by the outdoor retail industry, those same instincts remain. If something stinks, then the smell will be aired in public. Mitigated with due regard to the source, but unencumbered by too much concern over 'biting the hand that feeds'.
There is no bigger picture to consider. No organisation or income stream to safeguard. And no protection either.
Each individual's Blog is their own personal investment. It can stop, grow, or stagnate on whim. And if the content becomes rabid trash with a marked biased then readership will dwindle; And usually the Blogger's desire to continue declines. (I'll ignore the paparazzi/gossip Blogs here!)
It is certainly helpful to get easier access to equipment, especially if normally unobtainable due to price or availability. But few of us would ever review something because We Must. It is because the item will be of personal interest and curiosity. For we are Owner, Editor, Writer and Publisher all at the same time. We get to choose.
PR/Marketing contacts can undoubtedly ease much of the basic access & research. But for us simple folk any regurgitation of the copy-writer's snake-oil wordage is noticeable. Any product placement that may occur is down to the social and fashion drivers we, as part of the outdoor public, are all subject to. But similarly there are those amongst our number who will regularly go against the prevailing trend. Indeed on any given topic you'll usually find a whole range of opinion, or lack of, across the Outdoor Blogs leaving you as reader to make up your own mind based on a wide discussion of the issues involved.
If you like, it’s the ultimate pub conversation. But readily available on-line from your home most days. And with the option to turn away to another source if the content is uninteresting.
So turning back to the original question "If the print press does fade away, surely the quality of the information provided will similarly degrade?"
Maybe - but is the alternative before you any worse? Or is its delivery & content of more relevance for today's audience?
Time will tell. And also, I suspect, the effect of continuing to maintain a low cost alternative.
The majority of Outdoor Blogs steer clear of carrying any form of income generators (Click through Ads; Google AdSense; Retail links etc) But as the on-line format matures there is the reality for many of us to maintain and improve quality content. And for that the present self-financing will continue to be challenged if it is to develop.
How to do that without losing the hard fought integrity that is being slowly built? I wonder how you as a reader may feel about that? Will we see a ceiling on the type of content provided, limited by cash, time and hobby blog status? Or will Blogs that go beyond this risk becoming too closely compared with the print media's own dilemma? Content v Income Generation = Continued Survival.
Print or on-line its clear the content provider shares many of the same information resources, but not necessarily the same problems. Not yet at least.
The attraction of the established magazine for the Outdoor reader will remain, I'm sure. But the flexibility and variety of the Outdoor Blog scene will continue to grow and exert an influence.
And that leaves you, as the consumer, firmly in the driving seat.
From this Blogger's view that's a Good Thing as your interaction with this medium can directly and quickly influence the content you see far better than any remote Market Survey will ever manage.
Ramble over. Normal service will be resumed with immediate effect.
Labels: blog media, TGO Magazine, Trail Magazine
Wednesday, March 26
2008: Blogs & the 'traditional' press (Part 1)
About a year ago I posted an article considering the impact of outdoor blogs alongside the UK's traditional print magazines. Whilst questioning the role blogs played I concluded that it was an alternative format. One still finding its feet. But also very capable of offering things that the paper press weren't able to deliver - speed of news items, article relevancy, targeted readership.
It's been a busy year since. There's been innovation on the hard copy side with publishers setting up or rebadging magazine websites; Experimenting with podcast, vidcast and digital magazine formats.
Meanwhile the majority of UK based Outdoor Bloggers, coming together under the auspices of the OutdoorBloggers.com have welcomed new members, and provided a strong support network for those seeking to get started, looking to improve their chosen craft, or just happy to be amongst a like minded community. With over 55 members it may not sound huge. But it represents the majority of those in the UK actively blogging on outdoor related matters. Specifically walking/wildcamping, but also including other outdoor interests. And using a range of methods to present the information on-line.
Any regular reader of these blogs could not have failed to notice comprehensive coverage of such things as the Outdoors Show. Providing a level of detail and reflection to a depth that just wouldn't be possible within a magazine issue. And more importantly making it available whilst the information remained fresh and relevant.
Tellingly, what the magazines may have to report is still awaited.
A throw away comment from one blogger made me return to my original piece to remind myself of circulation figures and to confirm the latest position. And all does not look good in print magazine land at present.
Anyone following the Lad's Mags (Maxim, Loaded, FHQ) circulation news will already be aware that their market share has been plummeting as their market audience moves away to other interests.
And whilst the outdoor sphere has always been of a less flighty nature, the comparative figures for 2006 & 2007 are worrying. Once again using the magazine industry's benchmark, the Audit Bureau of Circulations (the little ABC you sometimes see inside the magazine cover) and with due recognition of ABC copyright ownership a quick reprise of the state of the market using 2007 figures against those 2006 representative titles
Mag: TRAIL
Circulation : 39,349 (2006 - 40,552 - 3% drop)
Cost: £3.70 (2006 - £3.50 - 6% increase)
Subscription: 38% of copies sold (2006 - 41% - 3 % drop)
Mag: COUNTRY WALKING
Circulation : 44,549 (2006 - 46,849 - 5% drop)
Cost: £3.70 (2006 - £3.50 - 6% increase)
Subscription: 42% of copies sold (2006 - 43% - 1% drop)
Mag: TGO
Circulation : 10,705 (2006 - 11,368 - 6% drop)
Cost: £3.40 (2006 - £3.30 - 3% increase)
Subscribers: 31% of copies sold (2006 - 38% - 7 % drop)
And the alternative outdoor offerings?
Magazine : WALK
Circulation : 105,168 (2006 - 105,809 - 1% drop)
Cost: n/a
Subscribers: n/a
Magazine : CUMBRIA
Circulation : 12,505 (2006 - 13,043 - 4% drop)
Cost: £1.99 (2006 - £1.85 - 8% increase)
Subscribers: 58% (2006 - 56% - 2 % increase)
Across all titles, even including the Rambler's Association Walk Magazine (part of the membership deal), there has been a loss of readership, accompanied by a loss of subscribers. Except for Cumbria, which I suspect has a huge readership outside of the Lakes, and naturally tends towards subscription for its circulation.
All the magazines, as you’d expect, have had a cover price increase. But that doesn’t appear to directly relate to readership loss with TGO hardest hit despite the lowest price change.
Across the big three UK magazines (Trail; Country Walking; TGO) total readership has dropped from 98,769 to 94,603
Similar figures for blog readership are notoriously difficult to acquire. But here's some rough figures based on average monthly visitors and a variety of different and regularly followed blogs (via RSS feeds- say 10 and 20 blogs)
A minimum audience of 15,000 and a maximum in excess of 30,000.
(But please - this is a very rough estimate based on very little hard fact, just feedback from my own site stats and a few others balanced against repeat visits throughout a "average" month. I wouldn’t want this taken as more than a poor indicator for comparative purposes)
So where has 4% of the 2006 print readership wandered off to? And what does this mean for those newer magazines such as Active Magazine launched back in Feb just in time for the NEC Show?
Perhaps, similar to the advent of multiple digital TV channels the traditional mass audience has started to peel away. To follow stations geared to their own niche interests.
Or possibly, with lifestyle choice and shifting population demographics, the target readership has moved off to other things (But considering the level of mainstream press publicity given to reports on obesity and walking for fitness & good health one should expect the opposite?)
Or perhaps the print magazine is facing an increasingly web enabled audience. One who select their information sources to match their leisure activity niches, at a time and place of their choosing. And one that more immediately meets their need?.
We are constantly reminded that we live in a fast and ever changing world. The expectations of the present generations are radically different from those of only ten years ago.
As an alternative form of information, entertainment & communication 2007 has undoubtedly seen the consolidation of the Outdoor Blog as one format amongst many alternatives. And hopefully those involved have lifted their game to consider both regular readership, but also those coming new to the genre.
So for 2008:
Outdoor Blogs - still an alternative.
Definitely standing upright; And showing commitment to what they deliver.
But the question remains -are they a replacement for the traditional press?
As a committed reader of outdoor magazines, but on a less regular basis than in the past, I hope they continue. But edgy times indeed for those involved in static and cost heavy businesses.
And what about the hard working print journalist, with a network of contacts and providing that essential conduit between manufacturer/organisation and getting their product/news to you the public? If the print press does fade away, surely the quality of the information provided will similarly degrade?
Well - maybe not as much as you would think. A subject I will return to with the concluding part of this piece coming sometime during the next week.
(Well - you think this stuff is quick to produce? There is the day job to consider after all!)Labels: blog media, TGO Magazine, Trail Magazine
Tuesday, March 25
UK Walking Magazine - The Little Death?
As ever, one little teeny weeny Google query seems to have led to another, and another, and .........well you get the general idea by now I'm sure.
There's something rather smelly happening in the UK Outdoor magazine world. Possibly reflective of the traditional print media, as a whole?
More to follow in the next few days once I've dug a little deeper.Labels: blog media, media, TGO Magazine, Trail Magazine
Sunday, March 9
TGO & Trail Magazine; And what's a 'Heat Exchange Mask' then?
Pre the Outdoor Show I decided to take a look at the latest outdoor magazines. Well, when I say take a look what I really mean is buy rather than spend 5 minutes in the local W.H. Smith's library, flicking through the increasingly expensive offerings (well compared to the time it takes me to read them at least!)
I've rather given up on these mags over the winter months as the content had become a little staid.
Trail was easy to locate (WHS naturally) but TGO was a b*gger to chase down. No thanks to the newsagent in the centre of Christchurch who kindly informed me here was "No demand for walking magazines around this area" Well why was I asking for one then? But a similar request at a small shop in Bransgore, after one of my New Forest wanders earlier today turned up both a knowledgeable newsagent, and nice shiny copy.
And happily well worth the search.
I don't know what the team at TGO may have been imbibing recently but the magazine is back on form with a Bang. Entertaining, informative and challenging. And as editor Cameron McNeish intimated in the prerelease vidcast trailer, if Eddy Meechan carries on like he's started off already there's plenty of sparks ready to fly. I had to admit the heat exchange mask made me laugh at first. But then I read the article and thought - well why not? (and AS has his own view here)
And that is what we buy a magazine for surely? To learn and to challenge accepted opinion; And then to make up our own minds.
TGO 1; Trail 0;
No contest.
And that's despite the NEC Blogger Meet-up being publicised as one of the attractions of the Outdoors Show though. Would have been nice to have been asked beforehand? And I guess the Jennings stand may have some thoughts on that one as well. Which we may find out on the day I guess ( Naughty naughty)Labels: media, NEC Outdoors Show, TGO Magazine, Trail Magazine
Monday, August 6
Timeless Flight - A second bite
And whilst I'm playing catch-up on recent articles, there has been some thoughtful responses about the status of Outdoor magazines.
Lighthiker made an interesting point, which I've heard before, and would mostly agree with. But I think there's more to it than at first glance:
"People have the idea that the Internet is "free" and wouldn't pay for a subscription of a website the same price they pay for the printed magazine. And to some extent I also need to blame bloggers like myself. I post about gear. I make no money out of it and people can read it for free. So if they find the info they want let's say about the latest tents on my blog or others why buying a printed magazine? The only thing that can make a difference would be big in-depth tests and some kind of premium (and I mean premium) content which differs them from what is available for free online. ................ Not many advertisers would move online as their ad will be easier overlooked/clicked away and magazines can't charge them the same rates for online advertising compared to the printed version.Things might change over time when the Internet becomes so cheap and accessible that everybody can use it all the time at every place and the reading habits change also. It will come but probably is 5-10 years from now"
I'd especially agree on the "Internet= Free" model. Would Podcast Bob's excellent output have the same appeal if the podcasts were chargeable? An issue I know Bob continues to tussle with.
For these sort of things I always look to the prime example of supply and demand in action. One of the oldest commercial concerns in the communication medias. It was straight in there as soon as the pictures and the written word started to be used for mass communication.
It is of course the Sex Industry.
Whatever your personal feelings about the product for sale their providers work in one of the strongest surviving markets. And one of the most cut throat and pressured. It is one that's continued to survive despite the attempts of law, social disapproval and religious stricture. Sex sells, as advertisers spend so many dreary millions of $$$$ trying hard to avoid telling us (subtle ads; trick story lines; subliminal messages etc)
But as an industry they are very early adopters in communication and retail environments.
And much as Playboy print magazine of the 50s eventually became a household name, a designer label, and a mult media industry, the modern day spawn of the porn sites were on the net early, and have tried most of the tricks in the book to make websites pay. Even inventing a few new ones along the way, some legitimate, some particularly odious.
Ditto digital TV/view on demand etc - a marketplace in which the big corporations are still very much feeling their way at present.
BTW I'm not suggesting that we should try to make too close a comparison between the outdoor industry here!
But consider some key elements from that sphere.........
- The way in which the print format has adopted certain facets of the digital media, whilst still retaining some of the traditional format, for non adopters, but with a revised demand model and pricing structure.
- The adoption of real time information feeds e.g. webcam
- Interaction with the demand points i.e. Joe Public via a variety of alternatives (e.g. mobile phones)
- Free site content as a loss leader to a subscription model
- Ease of use
- E-tail spin-off business targeting a High Street audience, without the legislative issues or premise overhead. Or the social disapproval.
...... etc etc
I'm no expert in this area- no honestly! But any one who has experienced the Internet for more than a simple usage quickly finds it difficult to avoid a variety of content delivery all trying their independent methods of making that elusive buck. The sex/porn industry, despite its lack of general social acceptability (in fact possibly because of that?) has been by far the one with the most widespread impact globally across the web. And one of the biggest money takers I suspect.
As I said earlier. Watch the model, not the product. Some sales will always be easier. Some models less complex.
But learn from the successful and adapt to your own concern.
"It will come but probably is 5-10 years from now"
I'd say that's already here for some retailers. The question is whether established product providers adopt, adapt, or maybe even just avoid. Labels: blog media, TGO Magazine, Trail Magazine
Friday, August 3
Timeless Flight. Have Outdoor Magazines met their nadir?
An unexpected delay on my flight back during a business trip earlier today gave me the dubious opportunity to sit in Liverpool Airport reading the September copy of Trail magazine.
Dubious?
Well with rather too many long hours to while away there was a temptation to read and reread the magazine sat in my lap. Or even to critically assess the content, presentation and format. Which is a little unfair on my part really because Trail Magazine is honestly not that sort of reading material. It never pretends to be a 'work of art' for critical analysis, but a monthly outdoor mag ("The UK's biggest selling hill-walking magazine") to provide information whilst remaining entertaining.
And as I sit here tip-tip-tapping into my faithful Psion 5, the flight has just been called (finally), so I'd better make this a very quick round-up, and clean it up back at home (which I'm now doing)
I'd have to say that Trail is not only a little light on content, but is starting to lay itself open to the accusation of being noticeably dated with some articles. For instance - a couple of references to Steve Perry's charity trip (aborted prematurely at the start of last week), a circular route over Caldbeck Fells the pictures showing a frozen landscape (so how long ago was that trip then?)
I do appreciate the unavoidable delay between putting the issue to bed, and distributing the printed article to the retailer. But how long is the delay, and does it remain acceptable these days? After all newspapers appear each morning based on the previous day's happenings.
I assume the advantage of delayed release for magazines is more financially motivated, but how long are we talking here?
But I digress. Back to the plot JH.
I'd forgive the Perry ref as just being one of those timing things, but in general the relevancy if some articles is becoming an issue these days with 3-4 month article lead times appearing quite common. And news? Well it isn't really. As Perry's mishap unintentionally proved.
I'm sure if I looked a little closer I'd discover this is not an issue limited just to Trail, or even the Outdoor magazine sector. Why as a reading public are we paying highish prices (Trail-£3.50) for something that is not necessarily a reflection of the season and outdoor experiences we ourselves are having?
Or to put it another way. Why on the 3rd day of August am I reading a magazine marked September, but based on articles compiled, at my guess, sometime in March/April? A six month gap?
I repeat this is not aimed at Trail magazine per se. That esteemed publishing team continue to attract a strong readership so are obviously meeting a demand from numerous readers. But there comes a point when the accumulation of the cost for three or four months mags may be better spent on (say) a reference/route guide to Scotland in a book form. And that at least would be something I'd keep and use later. As opposed to stockpiling old mags for years, and finally throwing them away finding no-one else to take them on. That was a moment of satori, and a weight off the attic woodwork, when I realised I'd never referred to one back issue in all the time I'd kept them. Not once.
Well that may say more about me, or what I expect these days from the publishing industry.
Even the on-line version of TGO took a couple of days to post about Steve Perry, although I suspect they were waiting for comment from Steve himself.
Or perhaps I'm becoming more demanding as an increasing amount of news and reviews are via websites, outdoor forums, and yes you've guess it - Blogs. All immediate medias. Quality and veracity of course varying tremendously. But a cross section of views and feedback offers me much more of a consensus view. And usually some come back to the individuals concerned.
But mostly I expect to read far more critical and detailed reviews, based on real life use, on the net. There's no advertiser's to be wary of (and no matter how independent the mag that is always a consideration to some extent. It's only human nature after all) There are expectations to this of course - Judy Armstrong/Chris Townsend being very good at calling a spade a spade where it counts.
But it does look like the outdoor magazine is these days becoming more of a......?
Well to be honest I'm not too sure what they are at the moment. And where they fit into the future of media/audience communication.
But at the moment I can't help but feel that something is slipping away from some sectors of the magazine industry.
Once I read the essential monthly copy for information. For new ideas. For education. Now I buy as something to while away a quick twenty or thirty minute journey. Something lightweight.
And before someone points out my previous posts, all based on regular purchase of said items .... the reason I continue to buy Trail and TGO? (subscription just lapsed BTW) Part relevancy to the interests I have on this blog site and part optimism that things will improve.
Occasionally I uncover a gem. Sometimes an article is relevant to my needs. But mostly I end up dissatisfied. A feeling that there has to be more. And as any retailer understands. If you fail to satisfy the punter properly, forget any return trade.
So finally an appeal. Can anyone in any part of the press/print industry throw some light on this at all? (Whether privately or publicly)
I'd even be interested in meeting/visiting any of the mags/editorial teams in an effort to better understand the realities at first hand.
This ones bugging me. I can feel a chill wind blowing and I'd like to see which bugger has left the privy door open.Or is it the new wave blowing on by?
Labels: blog media, TGO Magazine, Trail Magazine
Tuesday, July 10
August Trail items
A couple of quick highlights after just finishing August's copy of Trail Magazine.
Again loads of content, but it tends to dissipate when looking for real detail , or perhaps that's just me expecting too much insight from what is a general outdoor readership mag after all.
An interesting wildcamping article, a little spoilt by 3 up in a tent. I could see the idea behind the article to persuade more women to enjoy the experience, but not the ideal way to be introduced to the concept of "carry light, travel far"
.......first get your great big heavy three (wo)man tent ..............you get the idea.
But to the things that caught my eye:
There's a link to courses run by the Institute of Public Rights of Way, to help manage rights of way issues. I adopted several local footpaths myself many years ago, the premise being walk them regularly to keep legal access rights fresh, and report back on obstructions. I also kept the way marking up, a constant challenge where path and housing estates converge.
On the whole the experience has been positive, although the approach of individual councils tends to vary dependant on their attitude, the location, and more importantly their available budget.
Yet another good reason for some local walking though.
Secondly a quick heads up ..........
If you happen to be planning a camp outdoors 23 July then look to the night sky when the Perseids meteor shower starts, for about a month. Peak time is supposed to be the 12th August, when I know one group of bloggers in particular will hopefully be away from all light pollution, looking to the sky.
One for the diary. Let's hope the weather accommodates accordingly.Labels: Trail Magazine
Sunday, July 1
Trail Challenge over & Keswick's George Fisher sold
It's interesting how one thing can lead to another, and another, and ... etc etc
I was checking the progress of the Trail Magazine Academy trio. Sarah writes: "The Trail thing is now officially over, and looking at the write up of the last expedition in the magazine, I’m quite glad I didn’t go. Looks like they walked a long way carrying a lot of kit and had a very uncomfortable night. I love the outdoors, and I enjoy camping, but I don’t believe in making things even more difficult for yourself! It’s a shame it’s over, and I appear to be the one who got the least out of it, but such is life"
Whatever Trail's intentions on the exercise it looks like some of the backpacking ethos & practice possibly didn't rub off in quite the way it was intended.
And as for the other two guinea pigs. Emma had a proposal of marriage, and Sian found out she was nearly pregnant, for a short while. It all seems to happen on these Trail programs doesn't it!
But they all seemed to have enjoyed the experience, and thanks to Sarah's blog for the tip off concerning the new Trail Gear Blog, which coincidentally appeared to to have hit the web around the time the repackaged TGO Forum/Blogsite was rolled out. Is that's what's called a spoiler in the press trade? Surely not.
As I was checking the links for this post I spotted this piece of recent news concerning the takeover of the highly regarded George Fisher shop in Keswick by the Tiso Group. Trail's news report is here.
Normally this sort of news would have appeared on the outdoor forums, but not a sniff that I've spotted so far. And nothing on GF's own site either (So does that count as a blogger scoop WD?)
As to the news, one commenter has positive comments on Tiso in Edinburgh(Tiso is largely unknown south of the Scottish border) so hopefully GF's excellent service and stocking policy will continue into the future.
And of course the web cam.Labels: blog media, Gear, Lake District, TGO Magazine, Trail Magazine
Wednesday, June 6
TGO website
The new TGO site is now up and running, and quickly filling with high quality content. Highly recommended
(Damn - that's more stuff to read on-line)
The main question - how will the TGO on-line version differ in content from the TGO print version?
I'm looking forward an interesting few months as I was aware Cameron had a 'pack full of ideas, and it's good to see the initiative starting to come into flower. Best of luck.
It'll be interesting to see how Trail/Country Walking respond to this initiative from Cameron's team, bearing in mind the content of some of the recent topics covered. Only coincidental I'm sure.Labels: TGO Magazine, Trail Magazine
Wednesday, May 2
Trail Post - Interesting Response
Hhhmmmm. Interesting.
Visits to this site more than doubled following a couple of comments I left on OM concerning the value of Trail's piece on 'Lightweight Lakes'. All looking at this post.
None felt the need to leave a comment. But the interest level leads me to suspect I may have hit a sympathetic nerve.
Discuss?Labels: blog media, Trail Magazine
Monday, April 30
Trail Magazine - June
Another month, another well laid trap to fall into. Again.
Curses! Clever these publishers. I should have learnt my lesson by now.
Lots of lovely articles to dig into, but once again a sense of deflation. Why is that? A quick glance at the articles:
- Good bit on the new via ferrata route at Honister Hause slate mine
- 'Get into wildcamping' Nice try, but bullet points on a single page - give me a break!
- Philosophy of Lightweight. Interesting, but more content, less double page pictures
- Essential equipment - Ha ha. Got me going there. I was half way through the article before I read 'an adequate supply of water is essential but insufficient' What on earth? Oh right - a sponsored article by the Sugar Bureau aka Designer drinks good; Water bad. Naughty. Very naughty
- Sub 2k tents - reasonable article.
- How to buy a soft shell - with the lead-in stating ".....which is why you need one" Oh. And there's me without one. Heresy. A quick scour of the article and I finally found the answer. In small text. On a green background. Still got no real idea why I 'must' have one. A pity it came across as an order. I don't react well to that sort of approach. Sloppy journalism on an otherwise good article though.
- Eiger history- great bit, this is more like it.
And so on..........
One thought as I dropped it in the recycle rack (after only 1/2 hour reading this month) was a topic that seem to mirror some of my older blog posts (e.g. Walks/Public transport)
Now I've got no monopoly on that idea. After all it's been around for years, but I do recall trying to explain how easily it can be achieved and why. A bit strange to see the number of routes labelled as Public Transport. When did that first start popping up?
This months cover price£3.50; Or £7.00 an hour at my interest level.
And you have this blog all for free. Peachy
Labels: Trail Magazine
Thursday, April 5
TGO, Trail (and the Outdoor Show?)
I'd just finished off May's issue of Trail magazine when postie dropped my copy of TGO onto the doormat. So once more a comparative response due to an accident of timing.
I'd been tempted into buying Trail for the second month in a row by the cover's teaser headings, and a very quick thumb thru before purchase.
It looked good in the shop. But once more I found that I rapidly skipped through it, the chopped-up page layout making it more of a 'dip-into' style, rather than any sort of absorbing read.
But again I felt left with an unsatisfied feeling, and no real reaction to most of the articles, beyond what I've already said about sponsored articles.
The Brecon Beacons routes stuff was ok; Oh and I'll definitely cross a visit to the Dove Crag's Priest's Hole Cave off my list for several months. It wasn't the biggest secret in the Lakeland walks world, but it will attract too much attention now its been included as just another 'great night away'. This Easter weekend should be fun - lol (Just grateful that the other spots I know were overlooked. But perhaps that's why I found them in the first place and continue to use them. Not intended as elitism on my part, more my more solitary enjoyment of the fellside)
TGO was a bit more thought provoking.
For once Jim Perrin's stuff grabbed me, and I wanted to read to the end of his article.
Chris Townsend (as always) delivered the goods, with a thoughtful look at lightweight clothing systems. His point, as I took it, being more about approach to use and mix of clothing, rather than a formulaic Gear A plus Gear B plus Gear C = result. I've already used this mindset successfully last year, shaving pounds of my pack weight by losing the fleece with adding a windproof (Montane Lite-Speed - a real find)
So with both mags put aside, I suddenly realised - not one report about the NEC Outdoors Show in mid April?
Plenty of press beforehand, but no post show round-up? Perhaps the deadline dates for May's copy was too early for the show report, but it leads me to a point I've raised before about one of the roles of the (for want of a better phrase) 'new media'.
The various UK Outdoors Bloggers that attended reported on the event on the day, or within a few days.
The copy may have been at times opinionated and possibly even amateurish, but it did represent a timely man-in-the-street response to what was on offer.
Andy Howell delayed release of the multi podcast reports until earlier this week, possibly while he waited for the return of his technical support guru? (p.s. AH -is the podzine web page detail right, it seems to talk about Harrogate 2006 fair?). Check here if you want to download free of charge.
But from the mags I've read, a recognisable source used by most of the outdoor walking fraternity - nothing. (Anyone out there in magazine world care to respond?)
As I've said before, on-line media is complimentary to established publishing methodology.
But hey sometimes we bloggers do have a definite edge.
Labels: TGO Magazine, Trail Magazine, UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
All site material © John Hee - ask before you snatch
"What about the hard working print journalist, with a network of contacts, providing that essential conduit between manufacturer/organisation and getting their product/news to you the public? If the print press does fade away, surely the quality of the information provided will similarly degrade?"
This reminded me of some material hanging around in my Ideas-Box. Some of these ideas quietly slip into oblivion as their relevancy fades with the passage of time. But this one insisted on being aired. Possibly this was rattling around the emptier recesses of my mind as the first part of this piece laid itself out onto this screen.
So, if I may, a brief diversion off the main track before attempting to weave its relevancy back onto the path.
Nick Davies's Guardian piece (Feb 08) is scathing in his damnation of lazy journalism. Aiming straight between the eyes he charges "our tendency to recycle ignorance is far worse than it was…80% (of articles) …were wholly, mainly or partially constructed from second-hand material, provided by news agencies and by the public relations industry"
In summarising his research based on material covering many years of UK based media he goes even further:
"Where once journalists were active gatherers of news, now they have generally become mere passive processors of unchecked, second-hand material, much of it contrived by PR to serve some political or commercial interest. Not journalists, but churnalists. An industry whose primary task is to filter out falsehood has become so vulnerable to manipulation that it is now involved in the mass production of falsehood, distortion and propaganda"
Very hard words.
The source of his material commissioned from Cardiff University provides some interesting facts:
* 2 out 3 media reports relate back to PR/Press wire sources
* 2/3rds of the typical morning newspaper used the same basic material, with many poorly researched, if at all, and probably not even re-edited or revised
* 49% of stories are straight press feed/wire copy
* 60% of stories rely wholly or mainly on pre-packaged info
In mitigation it is pointed out that a daily newspaper is now three times the size of 20 years ago. And with no corresponding increase in staff the difficulties in filling this additional space can be considerable. Tying the journalist to an office keyboard rather than out news gathering/checking as once was their role.
Damning stuff for the Grub Street of today.
Right, diversion over. Back to the main path.
Let's apply this to the Outdoor Magazine sector. Whilst undoubtedly the economics of the publishing industry cannot avoid the general industry trend (pages up; staff small), those I've encountered manage to maintain an ethical approach to their craft. News itself forms only a small part of each month's copy. The majority of main content requires old style journalism. Gear is reviewed through personal use; Issues are researched, opinions formed and then delivered with a balanced hand. Political agenda, rarely raised, is carefully handled and usually acknowledged in a relatively classless manner, although the Big Landowner v Small Man debate will be aired on occasions, with the magazine taking the Small Man's position.
So hopefully not all is as black as at first suspected.
However underlying much of the content is the reality that most magazines these days survive not through readership numbers but advertising. There's little evidence to suggest a review will be positive just because the manufacturer places Ads in the same magazine. And that's unlike rumours to the contrary made in other publishing sectors. For one, the items concerned are typically of low value when compared to such items as the price of, let's say, a new car.
But still the reality is that gear tests mostly rely on easy and early access to outdoor kit; Regular involvement with the provider's PR, Marketing & Technical teams; And a careful balancing of the feed-provider/information-distributor.
To their credit this is something that the Outdoor publications seem to pull off. Or so it fees as a reader of much of their output over the years. If there is a retail tie-in then its stated, and its rare that any favouritism appears. Impartiality is still a very Big Word amongst the Outdoor Press.
(The main exception I regularly rail against on here is the monthly Trail/British Sugar Industry article. It may be flagged with a suitable warning. But the times I've been part way through the article; Smelt a rat; And paused to check the by-line; Only to realise I'm reading an 'industry information' piece recommending Sugar. That damages the magazine's relationship with me, the reader, each time it happens)
But what of the Blog & Podcast?
Let's get this fact out straight away. We're amateurs. Most Bloggers normally start off with few outdoor 'contacts'. It’s our real day job that provides the money to live and eat, and that's not necessarily involved with any of the Outdoor Industry. Hence content is initially based on what goes on around us, that may catch our interest. What we see, do and think.
As time passes contacts and networks naturally build if so desired. Sometimes within the outdoor retail sector, but more immediately with those Outdoor Organisations we are part of, or become involved, with as our passion and interest takes us further afield.
Often such links bring an opportunity for better gear/issues reports. But here I believe the Outdoor Blogger departs from our print based counterpart.
Most gear reviews require kit bought or borrowed using our own cash. Stuff that interests, that can be put to extend periods of use (and misuse) and reflected on. Sometimes that may be with a degree of natural bias (boots v trail shoes) but mostly reported as a typical customer who's parted with hard £££s, has limited choice, and requires kit to do what it says on the tin.
And if opportunities do arise for such gear to be provided gratis by the outdoor retail industry, those same instincts remain. If something stinks, then the smell will be aired in public. Mitigated with due regard to the source, but unencumbered by too much concern over 'biting the hand that feeds'.
There is no bigger picture to consider. No organisation or income stream to safeguard. And no protection either.
Each individual's Blog is their own personal investment. It can stop, grow, or stagnate on whim. And if the content becomes rabid trash with a marked biased then readership will dwindle; And usually the Blogger's desire to continue declines. (I'll ignore the paparazzi/gossip Blogs here!)
It is certainly helpful to get easier access to equipment, especially if normally unobtainable due to price or availability. But few of us would ever review something because We Must. It is because the item will be of personal interest and curiosity. For we are Owner, Editor, Writer and Publisher all at the same time. We get to choose.
PR/Marketing contacts can undoubtedly ease much of the basic access & research. But for us simple folk any regurgitation of the copy-writer's snake-oil wordage is noticeable. Any product placement that may occur is down to the social and fashion drivers we, as part of the outdoor public, are all subject to. But similarly there are those amongst our number who will regularly go against the prevailing trend. Indeed on any given topic you'll usually find a whole range of opinion, or lack of, across the Outdoor Blogs leaving you as reader to make up your own mind based on a wide discussion of the issues involved.
If you like, it’s the ultimate pub conversation. But readily available on-line from your home most days. And with the option to turn away to another source if the content is uninteresting.
So turning back to the original question "If the print press does fade away, surely the quality of the information provided will similarly degrade?"
Maybe - but is the alternative before you any worse? Or is its delivery & content of more relevance for today's audience?
Time will tell. And also, I suspect, the effect of continuing to maintain a low cost alternative.
The majority of Outdoor Blogs steer clear of carrying any form of income generators (Click through Ads; Google AdSense; Retail links etc) But as the on-line format matures there is the reality for many of us to maintain and improve quality content. And for that the present self-financing will continue to be challenged if it is to develop.
How to do that without losing the hard fought integrity that is being slowly built? I wonder how you as a reader may feel about that? Will we see a ceiling on the type of content provided, limited by cash, time and hobby blog status? Or will Blogs that go beyond this risk becoming too closely compared with the print media's own dilemma? Content v Income Generation = Continued Survival.
Print or on-line its clear the content provider shares many of the same information resources, but not necessarily the same problems. Not yet at least.
The attraction of the established magazine for the Outdoor reader will remain, I'm sure. But the flexibility and variety of the Outdoor Blog scene will continue to grow and exert an influence.
And that leaves you, as the consumer, firmly in the driving seat.
From this Blogger's view that's a Good Thing as your interaction with this medium can directly and quickly influence the content you see far better than any remote Market Survey will ever manage.
Ramble over. Normal service will be resumed with immediate effect.
Labels: blog media, TGO Magazine, Trail Magazine
2008: Blogs & the 'traditional' press (Part 1)
About a year ago I posted an article considering the impact of outdoor blogs alongside the UK's traditional print magazines. Whilst questioning the role blogs played I concluded that it was an alternative format. One still finding its feet. But also very capable of offering things that the paper press weren't able to deliver - speed of news items, article relevancy, targeted readership.
It's been a busy year since. There's been innovation on the hard copy side with publishers setting up or rebadging magazine websites; Experimenting with podcast, vidcast and digital magazine formats.
Meanwhile the majority of UK based Outdoor Bloggers, coming together under the auspices of the OutdoorBloggers.com have welcomed new members, and provided a strong support network for those seeking to get started, looking to improve their chosen craft, or just happy to be amongst a like minded community. With over 55 members it may not sound huge. But it represents the majority of those in the UK actively blogging on outdoor related matters. Specifically walking/wildcamping, but also including other outdoor interests. And using a range of methods to present the information on-line.
Any regular reader of these blogs could not have failed to notice comprehensive coverage of such things as the Outdoors Show. Providing a level of detail and reflection to a depth that just wouldn't be possible within a magazine issue. And more importantly making it available whilst the information remained fresh and relevant.
Tellingly, what the magazines may have to report is still awaited.
A throw away comment from one blogger made me return to my original piece to remind myself of circulation figures and to confirm the latest position. And all does not look good in print magazine land at present.
Anyone following the Lad's Mags (Maxim, Loaded, FHQ) circulation news will already be aware that their market share has been plummeting as their market audience moves away to other interests.
And whilst the outdoor sphere has always been of a less flighty nature, the comparative figures for 2006 & 2007 are worrying. Once again using the magazine industry's benchmark, the Audit Bureau of Circulations (the little ABC you sometimes see inside the magazine cover) and with due recognition of ABC copyright ownership a quick reprise of the state of the market using 2007 figures against those 2006 representative titles
Mag: TRAIL
Circulation : 39,349 (2006 - 40,552 - 3% drop)
Cost: £3.70 (2006 - £3.50 - 6% increase)
Subscription: 38% of copies sold (2006 - 41% - 3 % drop)
Mag: COUNTRY WALKING
Circulation : 44,549 (2006 - 46,849 - 5% drop)
Cost: £3.70 (2006 - £3.50 - 6% increase)
Subscription: 42% of copies sold (2006 - 43% - 1% drop)
Mag: TGO
Circulation : 10,705 (2006 - 11,368 - 6% drop)
Cost: £3.40 (2006 - £3.30 - 3% increase)
Subscribers: 31% of copies sold (2006 - 38% - 7 % drop)
And the alternative outdoor offerings?
Magazine : WALK
Circulation : 105,168 (2006 - 105,809 - 1% drop)
Cost: n/a
Subscribers: n/a
Magazine : CUMBRIA
Circulation : 12,505 (2006 - 13,043 - 4% drop)
Cost: £1.99 (2006 - £1.85 - 8% increase)
Subscribers: 58% (2006 - 56% - 2 % increase)
Across all titles, even including the Rambler's Association Walk Magazine (part of the membership deal), there has been a loss of readership, accompanied by a loss of subscribers. Except for Cumbria, which I suspect has a huge readership outside of the Lakes, and naturally tends towards subscription for its circulation.
All the magazines, as you’d expect, have had a cover price increase. But that doesn’t appear to directly relate to readership loss with TGO hardest hit despite the lowest price change.
Across the big three UK magazines (Trail; Country Walking; TGO) total readership has dropped from 98,769 to 94,603
Similar figures for blog readership are notoriously difficult to acquire. But here's some rough figures based on average monthly visitors and a variety of different and regularly followed blogs (via RSS feeds- say 10 and 20 blogs)
A minimum audience of 15,000 and a maximum in excess of 30,000.
(But please - this is a very rough estimate based on very little hard fact, just feedback from my own site stats and a few others balanced against repeat visits throughout a "average" month. I wouldn’t want this taken as more than a poor indicator for comparative purposes)
So where has 4% of the 2006 print readership wandered off to? And what does this mean for those newer magazines such as Active Magazine launched back in Feb just in time for the NEC Show?
Perhaps, similar to the advent of multiple digital TV channels the traditional mass audience has started to peel away. To follow stations geared to their own niche interests.
Or possibly, with lifestyle choice and shifting population demographics, the target readership has moved off to other things (But considering the level of mainstream press publicity given to reports on obesity and walking for fitness & good health one should expect the opposite?)
Or perhaps the print magazine is facing an increasingly web enabled audience. One who select their information sources to match their leisure activity niches, at a time and place of their choosing. And one that more immediately meets their need?.
We are constantly reminded that we live in a fast and ever changing world. The expectations of the present generations are radically different from those of only ten years ago.
As an alternative form of information, entertainment & communication 2007 has undoubtedly seen the consolidation of the Outdoor Blog as one format amongst many alternatives. And hopefully those involved have lifted their game to consider both regular readership, but also those coming new to the genre.
So for 2008:
Outdoor Blogs - still an alternative.
Definitely standing upright; And showing commitment to what they deliver.
But the question remains -are they a replacement for the traditional press?
As a committed reader of outdoor magazines, but on a less regular basis than in the past, I hope they continue. But edgy times indeed for those involved in static and cost heavy businesses.
And what about the hard working print journalist, with a network of contacts and providing that essential conduit between manufacturer/organisation and getting their product/news to you the public? If the print press does fade away, surely the quality of the information provided will similarly degrade?
Well - maybe not as much as you would think. A subject I will return to with the concluding part of this piece coming sometime during the next week.
(Well - you think this stuff is quick to produce? There is the day job to consider after all!)Labels: blog media, TGO Magazine, Trail Magazine
Tuesday, March 25
UK Walking Magazine - The Little Death?
As ever, one little teeny weeny Google query seems to have led to another, and another, and .........well you get the general idea by now I'm sure.
There's something rather smelly happening in the UK Outdoor magazine world. Possibly reflective of the traditional print media, as a whole?
More to follow in the next few days once I've dug a little deeper.Labels: blog media, media, TGO Magazine, Trail Magazine
Sunday, March 9
TGO & Trail Magazine; And what's a 'Heat Exchange Mask' then?
Pre the Outdoor Show I decided to take a look at the latest outdoor magazines. Well, when I say take a look what I really mean is buy rather than spend 5 minutes in the local W.H. Smith's library, flicking through the increasingly expensive offerings (well compared to the time it takes me to read them at least!)
I've rather given up on these mags over the winter months as the content had become a little staid.
Trail was easy to locate (WHS naturally) but TGO was a b*gger to chase down. No thanks to the newsagent in the centre of Christchurch who kindly informed me here was "No demand for walking magazines around this area" Well why was I asking for one then? But a similar request at a small shop in Bransgore, after one of my New Forest wanders earlier today turned up both a knowledgeable newsagent, and nice shiny copy.
And happily well worth the search.
I don't know what the team at TGO may have been imbibing recently but the magazine is back on form with a Bang. Entertaining, informative and challenging. And as editor Cameron McNeish intimated in the prerelease vidcast trailer, if Eddy Meechan carries on like he's started off already there's plenty of sparks ready to fly. I had to admit the heat exchange mask made me laugh at first. But then I read the article and thought - well why not? (and AS has his own view here)
And that is what we buy a magazine for surely? To learn and to challenge accepted opinion; And then to make up our own minds.
TGO 1; Trail 0;
No contest.
And that's despite the NEC Blogger Meet-up being publicised as one of the attractions of the Outdoors Show though. Would have been nice to have been asked beforehand? And I guess the Jennings stand may have some thoughts on that one as well. Which we may find out on the day I guess ( Naughty naughty)Labels: media, NEC Outdoors Show, TGO Magazine, Trail Magazine
Monday, August 6
Timeless Flight - A second bite
And whilst I'm playing catch-up on recent articles, there has been some thoughtful responses about the status of Outdoor magazines.
Lighthiker made an interesting point, which I've heard before, and would mostly agree with. But I think there's more to it than at first glance:
"People have the idea that the Internet is "free" and wouldn't pay for a subscription of a website the same price they pay for the printed magazine. And to some extent I also need to blame bloggers like myself. I post about gear. I make no money out of it and people can read it for free. So if they find the info they want let's say about the latest tents on my blog or others why buying a printed magazine? The only thing that can make a difference would be big in-depth tests and some kind of premium (and I mean premium) content which differs them from what is available for free online. ................ Not many advertisers would move online as their ad will be easier overlooked/clicked away and magazines can't charge them the same rates for online advertising compared to the printed version.Things might change over time when the Internet becomes so cheap and accessible that everybody can use it all the time at every place and the reading habits change also. It will come but probably is 5-10 years from now"
I'd especially agree on the "Internet= Free" model. Would Podcast Bob's excellent output have the same appeal if the podcasts were chargeable? An issue I know Bob continues to tussle with.
For these sort of things I always look to the prime example of supply and demand in action. One of the oldest commercial concerns in the communication medias. It was straight in there as soon as the pictures and the written word started to be used for mass communication.
It is of course the Sex Industry.
Whatever your personal feelings about the product for sale their providers work in one of the strongest surviving markets. And one of the most cut throat and pressured. It is one that's continued to survive despite the attempts of law, social disapproval and religious stricture. Sex sells, as advertisers spend so many dreary millions of $$$$ trying hard to avoid telling us (subtle ads; trick story lines; subliminal messages etc)
But as an industry they are very early adopters in communication and retail environments.
And much as Playboy print magazine of the 50s eventually became a household name, a designer label, and a mult media industry, the modern day spawn of the porn sites were on the net early, and have tried most of the tricks in the book to make websites pay. Even inventing a few new ones along the way, some legitimate, some particularly odious.
Ditto digital TV/view on demand etc - a marketplace in which the big corporations are still very much feeling their way at present.
BTW I'm not suggesting that we should try to make too close a comparison between the outdoor industry here!
But consider some key elements from that sphere.........
- The way in which the print format has adopted certain facets of the digital media, whilst still retaining some of the traditional format, for non adopters, but with a revised demand model and pricing structure.
- The adoption of real time information feeds e.g. webcam
- Interaction with the demand points i.e. Joe Public via a variety of alternatives (e.g. mobile phones)
- Free site content as a loss leader to a subscription model
- Ease of use
- E-tail spin-off business targeting a High Street audience, without the legislative issues or premise overhead. Or the social disapproval.
...... etc etc
I'm no expert in this area- no honestly! But any one who has experienced the Internet for more than a simple usage quickly finds it difficult to avoid a variety of content delivery all trying their independent methods of making that elusive buck. The sex/porn industry, despite its lack of general social acceptability (in fact possibly because of that?) has been by far the one with the most widespread impact globally across the web. And one of the biggest money takers I suspect.
As I said earlier. Watch the model, not the product. Some sales will always be easier. Some models less complex.
But learn from the successful and adapt to your own concern.
"It will come but probably is 5-10 years from now"
I'd say that's already here for some retailers. The question is whether established product providers adopt, adapt, or maybe even just avoid. Labels: blog media, TGO Magazine, Trail Magazine
Friday, August 3
Timeless Flight. Have Outdoor Magazines met their nadir?
An unexpected delay on my flight back during a business trip earlier today gave me the dubious opportunity to sit in Liverpool Airport reading the September copy of Trail magazine.
Dubious?
Well with rather too many long hours to while away there was a temptation to read and reread the magazine sat in my lap. Or even to critically assess the content, presentation and format. Which is a little unfair on my part really because Trail Magazine is honestly not that sort of reading material. It never pretends to be a 'work of art' for critical analysis, but a monthly outdoor mag ("The UK's biggest selling hill-walking magazine") to provide information whilst remaining entertaining.
And as I sit here tip-tip-tapping into my faithful Psion 5, the flight has just been called (finally), so I'd better make this a very quick round-up, and clean it up back at home (which I'm now doing)
I'd have to say that Trail is not only a little light on content, but is starting to lay itself open to the accusation of being noticeably dated with some articles. For instance - a couple of references to Steve Perry's charity trip (aborted prematurely at the start of last week), a circular route over Caldbeck Fells the pictures showing a frozen landscape (so how long ago was that trip then?)
I do appreciate the unavoidable delay between putting the issue to bed, and distributing the printed article to the retailer. But how long is the delay, and does it remain acceptable these days? After all newspapers appear each morning based on the previous day's happenings.
I assume the advantage of delayed release for magazines is more financially motivated, but how long are we talking here?
But I digress. Back to the plot JH.
I'd forgive the Perry ref as just being one of those timing things, but in general the relevancy if some articles is becoming an issue these days with 3-4 month article lead times appearing quite common. And news? Well it isn't really. As Perry's mishap unintentionally proved.
I'm sure if I looked a little closer I'd discover this is not an issue limited just to Trail, or even the Outdoor magazine sector. Why as a reading public are we paying highish prices (Trail-£3.50) for something that is not necessarily a reflection of the season and outdoor experiences we ourselves are having?
Or to put it another way. Why on the 3rd day of August am I reading a magazine marked September, but based on articles compiled, at my guess, sometime in March/April? A six month gap?
I repeat this is not aimed at Trail magazine per se. That esteemed publishing team continue to attract a strong readership so are obviously meeting a demand from numerous readers. But there comes a point when the accumulation of the cost for three or four months mags may be better spent on (say) a reference/route guide to Scotland in a book form. And that at least would be something I'd keep and use later. As opposed to stockpiling old mags for years, and finally throwing them away finding no-one else to take them on. That was a moment of satori, and a weight off the attic woodwork, when I realised I'd never referred to one back issue in all the time I'd kept them. Not once.
Well that may say more about me, or what I expect these days from the publishing industry.
Even the on-line version of TGO took a couple of days to post about Steve Perry, although I suspect they were waiting for comment from Steve himself.
Or perhaps I'm becoming more demanding as an increasing amount of news and reviews are via websites, outdoor forums, and yes you've guess it - Blogs. All immediate medias. Quality and veracity of course varying tremendously. But a cross section of views and feedback offers me much more of a consensus view. And usually some come back to the individuals concerned.
But mostly I expect to read far more critical and detailed reviews, based on real life use, on the net. There's no advertiser's to be wary of (and no matter how independent the mag that is always a consideration to some extent. It's only human nature after all) There are expectations to this of course - Judy Armstrong/Chris Townsend being very good at calling a spade a spade where it counts.
But it does look like the outdoor magazine is these days becoming more of a......?
Well to be honest I'm not too sure what they are at the moment. And where they fit into the future of media/audience communication.
But at the moment I can't help but feel that something is slipping away from some sectors of the magazine industry.
Once I read the essential monthly copy for information. For new ideas. For education. Now I buy as something to while away a quick twenty or thirty minute journey. Something lightweight.
And before someone points out my previous posts, all based on regular purchase of said items .... the reason I continue to buy Trail and TGO? (subscription just lapsed BTW) Part relevancy to the interests I have on this blog site and part optimism that things will improve.
Occasionally I uncover a gem. Sometimes an article is relevant to my needs. But mostly I end up dissatisfied. A feeling that there has to be more. And as any retailer understands. If you fail to satisfy the punter properly, forget any return trade.
So finally an appeal. Can anyone in any part of the press/print industry throw some light on this at all? (Whether privately or publicly)
I'd even be interested in meeting/visiting any of the mags/editorial teams in an effort to better understand the realities at first hand.
This ones bugging me. I can feel a chill wind blowing and I'd like to see which bugger has left the privy door open.Or is it the new wave blowing on by?
Labels: blog media, TGO Magazine, Trail Magazine
Tuesday, July 10
August Trail items
A couple of quick highlights after just finishing August's copy of Trail Magazine.
Again loads of content, but it tends to dissipate when looking for real detail , or perhaps that's just me expecting too much insight from what is a general outdoor readership mag after all.
An interesting wildcamping article, a little spoilt by 3 up in a tent. I could see the idea behind the article to persuade more women to enjoy the experience, but not the ideal way to be introduced to the concept of "carry light, travel far"
.......first get your great big heavy three (wo)man tent ..............you get the idea.
But to the things that caught my eye:
There's a link to courses run by the Institute of Public Rights of Way, to help manage rights of way issues. I adopted several local footpaths myself many years ago, the premise being walk them regularly to keep legal access rights fresh, and report back on obstructions. I also kept the way marking up, a constant challenge where path and housing estates converge.
On the whole the experience has been positive, although the approach of individual councils tends to vary dependant on their attitude, the location, and more importantly their available budget.
Yet another good reason for some local walking though.
Secondly a quick heads up ..........
If you happen to be planning a camp outdoors 23 July then look to the night sky when the Perseids meteor shower starts, for about a month. Peak time is supposed to be the 12th August, when I know one group of bloggers in particular will hopefully be away from all light pollution, looking to the sky.
One for the diary. Let's hope the weather accommodates accordingly.Labels: Trail Magazine
Sunday, July 1
Trail Challenge over & Keswick's George Fisher sold
It's interesting how one thing can lead to another, and another, and ... etc etc
I was checking the progress of the Trail Magazine Academy trio. Sarah writes: "The Trail thing is now officially over, and looking at the write up of the last expedition in the magazine, I’m quite glad I didn’t go. Looks like they walked a long way carrying a lot of kit and had a very uncomfortable night. I love the outdoors, and I enjoy camping, but I don’t believe in making things even more difficult for yourself! It’s a shame it’s over, and I appear to be the one who got the least out of it, but such is life"
Whatever Trail's intentions on the exercise it looks like some of the backpacking ethos & practice possibly didn't rub off in quite the way it was intended.
And as for the other two guinea pigs. Emma had a proposal of marriage, and Sian found out she was nearly pregnant, for a short while. It all seems to happen on these Trail programs doesn't it!
But they all seemed to have enjoyed the experience, and thanks to Sarah's blog for the tip off concerning the new Trail Gear Blog, which coincidentally appeared to to have hit the web around the time the repackaged TGO Forum/Blogsite was rolled out. Is that's what's called a spoiler in the press trade? Surely not.
As I was checking the links for this post I spotted this piece of recent news concerning the takeover of the highly regarded George Fisher shop in Keswick by the Tiso Group. Trail's news report is here.
Normally this sort of news would have appeared on the outdoor forums, but not a sniff that I've spotted so far. And nothing on GF's own site either (So does that count as a blogger scoop WD?)
As to the news, one commenter has positive comments on Tiso in Edinburgh(Tiso is largely unknown south of the Scottish border) so hopefully GF's excellent service and stocking policy will continue into the future.
And of course the web cam.Labels: blog media, Gear, Lake District, TGO Magazine, Trail Magazine
Wednesday, June 6
TGO website
The new TGO site is now up and running, and quickly filling with high quality content. Highly recommended
(Damn - that's more stuff to read on-line)
The main question - how will the TGO on-line version differ in content from the TGO print version?
I'm looking forward an interesting few months as I was aware Cameron had a 'pack full of ideas, and it's good to see the initiative starting to come into flower. Best of luck.
It'll be interesting to see how Trail/Country Walking respond to this initiative from Cameron's team, bearing in mind the content of some of the recent topics covered. Only coincidental I'm sure.Labels: TGO Magazine, Trail Magazine
Wednesday, May 2
Trail Post - Interesting Response
Hhhmmmm. Interesting.
Visits to this site more than doubled following a couple of comments I left on OM concerning the value of Trail's piece on 'Lightweight Lakes'. All looking at this post.
None felt the need to leave a comment. But the interest level leads me to suspect I may have hit a sympathetic nerve.
Discuss?Labels: blog media, Trail Magazine
Monday, April 30
Trail Magazine - June
Another month, another well laid trap to fall into. Again.
Curses! Clever these publishers. I should have learnt my lesson by now.
Lots of lovely articles to dig into, but once again a sense of deflation. Why is that? A quick glance at the articles:
- Good bit on the new via ferrata route at Honister Hause slate mine
- 'Get into wildcamping' Nice try, but bullet points on a single page - give me a break!
- Philosophy of Lightweight. Interesting, but more content, less double page pictures
- Essential equipment - Ha ha. Got me going there. I was half way through the article before I read 'an adequate supply of water is essential but insufficient' What on earth? Oh right - a sponsored article by the Sugar Bureau aka Designer drinks good; Water bad. Naughty. Very naughty
- Sub 2k tents - reasonable article.
- How to buy a soft shell - with the lead-in stating ".....which is why you need one" Oh. And there's me without one. Heresy. A quick scour of the article and I finally found the answer. In small text. On a green background. Still got no real idea why I 'must' have one. A pity it came across as an order. I don't react well to that sort of approach. Sloppy journalism on an otherwise good article though.
- Eiger history- great bit, this is more like it.
And so on..........
One thought as I dropped it in the recycle rack (after only 1/2 hour reading this month) was a topic that seem to mirror some of my older blog posts (e.g. Walks/Public transport)
Now I've got no monopoly on that idea. After all it's been around for years, but I do recall trying to explain how easily it can be achieved and why. A bit strange to see the number of routes labelled as Public Transport. When did that first start popping up?
This months cover price£3.50; Or £7.00 an hour at my interest level.
And you have this blog all for free. Peachy
Labels: Trail Magazine
Thursday, April 5
TGO, Trail (and the Outdoor Show?)
I'd just finished off May's issue of Trail magazine when postie dropped my copy of TGO onto the doormat. So once more a comparative response due to an accident of timing.
I'd been tempted into buying Trail for the second month in a row by the cover's teaser headings, and a very quick thumb thru before purchase.
It looked good in the shop. But once more I found that I rapidly skipped through it, the chopped-up page layout making it more of a 'dip-into' style, rather than any sort of absorbing read.
But again I felt left with an unsatisfied feeling, and no real reaction to most of the articles, beyond what I've already said about sponsored articles.
The Brecon Beacons routes stuff was ok; Oh and I'll definitely cross a visit to the Dove Crag's Priest's Hole Cave off my list for several months. It wasn't the biggest secret in the Lakeland walks world, but it will attract too much attention now its been included as just another 'great night away'. This Easter weekend should be fun - lol (Just grateful that the other spots I know were overlooked. But perhaps that's why I found them in the first place and continue to use them. Not intended as elitism on my part, more my more solitary enjoyment of the fellside)
TGO was a bit more thought provoking.
For once Jim Perrin's stuff grabbed me, and I wanted to read to the end of his article.
Chris Townsend (as always) delivered the goods, with a thoughtful look at lightweight clothing systems. His point, as I took it, being more about approach to use and mix of clothing, rather than a formulaic Gear A plus Gear B plus Gear C = result. I've already used this mindset successfully last year, shaving pounds of my pack weight by losing the fleece with adding a windproof (Montane Lite-Speed - a real find)
So with both mags put aside, I suddenly realised - not one report about the NEC Outdoors Show in mid April?
Plenty of press beforehand, but no post show round-up? Perhaps the deadline dates for May's copy was too early for the show report, but it leads me to a point I've raised before about one of the roles of the (for want of a better phrase) 'new media'.
The various UK Outdoors Bloggers that attended reported on the event on the day, or within a few days.
The copy may have been at times opinionated and possibly even amateurish, but it did represent a timely man-in-the-street response to what was on offer.
Andy Howell delayed release of the multi podcast reports until earlier this week, possibly while he waited for the return of his technical support guru? (p.s. AH -is the podzine web page detail right, it seems to talk about Harrogate 2006 fair?). Check here if you want to download free of charge.
But from the mags I've read, a recognisable source used by most of the outdoor walking fraternity - nothing. (Anyone out there in magazine world care to respond?)
As I've said before, on-line media is complimentary to established publishing methodology.
But hey sometimes we bloggers do have a definite edge.
Labels: TGO Magazine, Trail Magazine, UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
All site material © John Hee - ask before you snatch
It's been a busy year since. There's been innovation on the hard copy side with publishers setting up or rebadging magazine websites; Experimenting with podcast, vidcast and digital magazine formats.
Meanwhile the majority of UK based Outdoor Bloggers, coming together under the auspices of the OutdoorBloggers.com have welcomed new members, and provided a strong support network for those seeking to get started, looking to improve their chosen craft, or just happy to be amongst a like minded community. With over 55 members it may not sound huge. But it represents the majority of those in the UK actively blogging on outdoor related matters. Specifically walking/wildcamping, but also including other outdoor interests. And using a range of methods to present the information on-line.
Any regular reader of these blogs could not have failed to notice comprehensive coverage of such things as the Outdoors Show. Providing a level of detail and reflection to a depth that just wouldn't be possible within a magazine issue. And more importantly making it available whilst the information remained fresh and relevant.
Tellingly, what the magazines may have to report is still awaited.
A throw away comment from one blogger made me return to my original piece to remind myself of circulation figures and to confirm the latest position. And all does not look good in print magazine land at present.
Anyone following the Lad's Mags (Maxim, Loaded, FHQ) circulation news will already be aware that their market share has been plummeting as their market audience moves away to other interests.
And whilst the outdoor sphere has always been of a less flighty nature, the comparative figures for 2006 & 2007 are worrying. Once again using the magazine industry's benchmark, the Audit Bureau of Circulations (the little ABC you sometimes see inside the magazine cover) and with due recognition of ABC copyright ownership a quick reprise of the state of the market using 2007 figures against those 2006 representative titles
Mag: TRAIL
Circulation : 39,349 (2006 - 40,552 - 3% drop)
Cost: £3.70 (2006 - £3.50 - 6% increase)
Subscription: 38% of copies sold (2006 - 41% - 3 % drop)
Mag: COUNTRY WALKING
Circulation : 44,549 (2006 - 46,849 - 5% drop)
Cost: £3.70 (2006 - £3.50 - 6% increase)
Subscription: 42% of copies sold (2006 - 43% - 1% drop)
Mag: TGO
Circulation : 10,705 (2006 - 11,368 - 6% drop)
Cost: £3.40 (2006 - £3.30 - 3% increase)
Subscribers: 31% of copies sold (2006 - 38% - 7 % drop)
And the alternative outdoor offerings?
Magazine : WALK
Circulation : 105,168 (2006 - 105,809 - 1% drop)
Cost: n/a
Subscribers: n/a
Magazine : CUMBRIA
Circulation : 12,505 (2006 - 13,043 - 4% drop)
Cost: £1.99 (2006 - £1.85 - 8% increase)
Subscribers: 58% (2006 - 56% - 2 % increase)
Across all titles, even including the Rambler's Association Walk Magazine (part of the membership deal), there has been a loss of readership, accompanied by a loss of subscribers. Except for Cumbria, which I suspect has a huge readership outside of the Lakes, and naturally tends towards subscription for its circulation.
All the magazines, as you’d expect, have had a cover price increase. But that doesn’t appear to directly relate to readership loss with TGO hardest hit despite the lowest price change.
Across the big three UK magazines (Trail; Country Walking; TGO) total readership has dropped from 98,769 to 94,603
Similar figures for blog readership are notoriously difficult to acquire. But here's some rough figures based on average monthly visitors and a variety of different and regularly followed blogs (via RSS feeds- say 10 and 20 blogs)
A minimum audience of 15,000 and a maximum in excess of 30,000.
(But please - this is a very rough estimate based on very little hard fact, just feedback from my own site stats and a few others balanced against repeat visits throughout a "average" month. I wouldn’t want this taken as more than a poor indicator for comparative purposes)
So where has 4% of the 2006 print readership wandered off to? And what does this mean for those newer magazines such as Active Magazine launched back in Feb just in time for the NEC Show?
Perhaps, similar to the advent of multiple digital TV channels the traditional mass audience has started to peel away. To follow stations geared to their own niche interests.
Or possibly, with lifestyle choice and shifting population demographics, the target readership has moved off to other things (But considering the level of mainstream press publicity given to reports on obesity and walking for fitness & good health one should expect the opposite?)
Or perhaps the print magazine is facing an increasingly web enabled audience. One who select their information sources to match their leisure activity niches, at a time and place of their choosing. And one that more immediately meets their need?.
We are constantly reminded that we live in a fast and ever changing world. The expectations of the present generations are radically different from those of only ten years ago.
As an alternative form of information, entertainment & communication 2007 has undoubtedly seen the consolidation of the Outdoor Blog as one format amongst many alternatives. And hopefully those involved have lifted their game to consider both regular readership, but also those coming new to the genre.
So for 2008:
Outdoor Blogs - still an alternative.
Definitely standing upright; And showing commitment to what they deliver.
But the question remains -are they a replacement for the traditional press?
As a committed reader of outdoor magazines, but on a less regular basis than in the past, I hope they continue. But edgy times indeed for those involved in static and cost heavy businesses.
And what about the hard working print journalist, with a network of contacts and providing that essential conduit between manufacturer/organisation and getting their product/news to you the public? If the print press does fade away, surely the quality of the information provided will similarly degrade?
Well - maybe not as much as you would think. A subject I will return to with the concluding part of this piece coming sometime during the next week.
(Well - you think this stuff is quick to produce? There is the day job to consider after all!)
Labels: blog media, TGO Magazine, Trail Magazine
UK Walking Magazine - The Little Death?
As ever, one little teeny weeny Google query seems to have led to another, and another, and .........well you get the general idea by now I'm sure.
There's something rather smelly happening in the UK Outdoor magazine world. Possibly reflective of the traditional print media, as a whole?
More to follow in the next few days once I've dug a little deeper.Labels: blog media, media, TGO Magazine, Trail Magazine
Sunday, March 9
TGO & Trail Magazine; And what's a 'Heat Exchange Mask' then?
Pre the Outdoor Show I decided to take a look at the latest outdoor magazines. Well, when I say take a look what I really mean is buy rather than spend 5 minutes in the local W.H. Smith's library, flicking through the increasingly expensive offerings (well compared to the time it takes me to read them at least!)
I've rather given up on these mags over the winter months as the content had become a little staid.
Trail was easy to locate (WHS naturally) but TGO was a b*gger to chase down. No thanks to the newsagent in the centre of Christchurch who kindly informed me here was "No demand for walking magazines around this area" Well why was I asking for one then? But a similar request at a small shop in Bransgore, after one of my New Forest wanders earlier today turned up both a knowledgeable newsagent, and nice shiny copy.
And happily well worth the search.
I don't know what the team at TGO may have been imbibing recently but the magazine is back on form with a Bang. Entertaining, informative and challenging. And as editor Cameron McNeish intimated in the prerelease vidcast trailer, if Eddy Meechan carries on like he's started off already there's plenty of sparks ready to fly. I had to admit the heat exchange mask made me laugh at first. But then I read the article and thought - well why not? (and AS has his own view here)
And that is what we buy a magazine for surely? To learn and to challenge accepted opinion; And then to make up our own minds.
TGO 1; Trail 0;
No contest.
And that's despite the NEC Blogger Meet-up being publicised as one of the attractions of the Outdoors Show though. Would have been nice to have been asked beforehand? And I guess the Jennings stand may have some thoughts on that one as well. Which we may find out on the day I guess ( Naughty naughty)Labels: media, NEC Outdoors Show, TGO Magazine, Trail Magazine
Monday, August 6
Timeless Flight - A second bite
And whilst I'm playing catch-up on recent articles, there has been some thoughtful responses about the status of Outdoor magazines.
Lighthiker made an interesting point, which I've heard before, and would mostly agree with. But I think there's more to it than at first glance:
"People have the idea that the Internet is "free" and wouldn't pay for a subscription of a website the same price they pay for the printed magazine. And to some extent I also need to blame bloggers like myself. I post about gear. I make no money out of it and people can read it for free. So if they find the info they want let's say about the latest tents on my blog or others why buying a printed magazine? The only thing that can make a difference would be big in-depth tests and some kind of premium (and I mean premium) content which differs them from what is available for free online. ................ Not many advertisers would move online as their ad will be easier overlooked/clicked away and magazines can't charge them the same rates for online advertising compared to the printed version.Things might change over time when the Internet becomes so cheap and accessible that everybody can use it all the time at every place and the reading habits change also. It will come but probably is 5-10 years from now"
I'd especially agree on the "Internet= Free" model. Would Podcast Bob's excellent output have the same appeal if the podcasts were chargeable? An issue I know Bob continues to tussle with.
For these sort of things I always look to the prime example of supply and demand in action. One of the oldest commercial concerns in the communication medias. It was straight in there as soon as the pictures and the written word started to be used for mass communication.
It is of course the Sex Industry.
Whatever your personal feelings about the product for sale their providers work in one of the strongest surviving markets. And one of the most cut throat and pressured. It is one that's continued to survive despite the attempts of law, social disapproval and religious stricture. Sex sells, as advertisers spend so many dreary millions of $$$$ trying hard to avoid telling us (subtle ads; trick story lines; subliminal messages etc)
But as an industry they are very early adopters in communication and retail environments.
And much as Playboy print magazine of the 50s eventually became a household name, a designer label, and a mult media industry, the modern day spawn of the porn sites were on the net early, and have tried most of the tricks in the book to make websites pay. Even inventing a few new ones along the way, some legitimate, some particularly odious.
Ditto digital TV/view on demand etc - a marketplace in which the big corporations are still very much feeling their way at present.
BTW I'm not suggesting that we should try to make too close a comparison between the outdoor industry here!
But consider some key elements from that sphere.........
- The way in which the print format has adopted certain facets of the digital media, whilst still retaining some of the traditional format, for non adopters, but with a revised demand model and pricing structure.
- The adoption of real time information feeds e.g. webcam
- Interaction with the demand points i.e. Joe Public via a variety of alternatives (e.g. mobile phones)
- Free site content as a loss leader to a subscription model
- Ease of use
- E-tail spin-off business targeting a High Street audience, without the legislative issues or premise overhead. Or the social disapproval.
...... etc etc
I'm no expert in this area- no honestly! But any one who has experienced the Internet for more than a simple usage quickly finds it difficult to avoid a variety of content delivery all trying their independent methods of making that elusive buck. The sex/porn industry, despite its lack of general social acceptability (in fact possibly because of that?) has been by far the one with the most widespread impact globally across the web. And one of the biggest money takers I suspect.
As I said earlier. Watch the model, not the product. Some sales will always be easier. Some models less complex.
But learn from the successful and adapt to your own concern.
"It will come but probably is 5-10 years from now"
I'd say that's already here for some retailers. The question is whether established product providers adopt, adapt, or maybe even just avoid. Labels: blog media, TGO Magazine, Trail Magazine
Friday, August 3
Timeless Flight. Have Outdoor Magazines met their nadir?
An unexpected delay on my flight back during a business trip earlier today gave me the dubious opportunity to sit in Liverpool Airport reading the September copy of Trail magazine.
Dubious?
Well with rather too many long hours to while away there was a temptation to read and reread the magazine sat in my lap. Or even to critically assess the content, presentation and format. Which is a little unfair on my part really because Trail Magazine is honestly not that sort of reading material. It never pretends to be a 'work of art' for critical analysis, but a monthly outdoor mag ("The UK's biggest selling hill-walking magazine") to provide information whilst remaining entertaining.
And as I sit here tip-tip-tapping into my faithful Psion 5, the flight has just been called (finally), so I'd better make this a very quick round-up, and clean it up back at home (which I'm now doing)
I'd have to say that Trail is not only a little light on content, but is starting to lay itself open to the accusation of being noticeably dated with some articles. For instance - a couple of references to Steve Perry's charity trip (aborted prematurely at the start of last week), a circular route over Caldbeck Fells the pictures showing a frozen landscape (so how long ago was that trip then?)
I do appreciate the unavoidable delay between putting the issue to bed, and distributing the printed article to the retailer. But how long is the delay, and does it remain acceptable these days? After all newspapers appear each morning based on the previous day's happenings.
I assume the advantage of delayed release for magazines is more financially motivated, but how long are we talking here?
But I digress. Back to the plot JH.
I'd forgive the Perry ref as just being one of those timing things, but in general the relevancy if some articles is becoming an issue these days with 3-4 month article lead times appearing quite common. And news? Well it isn't really. As Perry's mishap unintentionally proved.
I'm sure if I looked a little closer I'd discover this is not an issue limited just to Trail, or even the Outdoor magazine sector. Why as a reading public are we paying highish prices (Trail-£3.50) for something that is not necessarily a reflection of the season and outdoor experiences we ourselves are having?
Or to put it another way. Why on the 3rd day of August am I reading a magazine marked September, but based on articles compiled, at my guess, sometime in March/April? A six month gap?
I repeat this is not aimed at Trail magazine per se. That esteemed publishing team continue to attract a strong readership so are obviously meeting a demand from numerous readers. But there comes a point when the accumulation of the cost for three or four months mags may be better spent on (say) a reference/route guide to Scotland in a book form. And that at least would be something I'd keep and use later. As opposed to stockpiling old mags for years, and finally throwing them away finding no-one else to take them on. That was a moment of satori, and a weight off the attic woodwork, when I realised I'd never referred to one back issue in all the time I'd kept them. Not once.
Well that may say more about me, or what I expect these days from the publishing industry.
Even the on-line version of TGO took a couple of days to post about Steve Perry, although I suspect they were waiting for comment from Steve himself.
Or perhaps I'm becoming more demanding as an increasing amount of news and reviews are via websites, outdoor forums, and yes you've guess it - Blogs. All immediate medias. Quality and veracity of course varying tremendously. But a cross section of views and feedback offers me much more of a consensus view. And usually some come back to the individuals concerned.
But mostly I expect to read far more critical and detailed reviews, based on real life use, on the net. There's no advertiser's to be wary of (and no matter how independent the mag that is always a consideration to some extent. It's only human nature after all) There are expectations to this of course - Judy Armstrong/Chris Townsend being very good at calling a spade a spade where it counts.
But it does look like the outdoor magazine is these days becoming more of a......?
Well to be honest I'm not too sure what they are at the moment. And where they fit into the future of media/audience communication.
But at the moment I can't help but feel that something is slipping away from some sectors of the magazine industry.
Once I read the essential monthly copy for information. For new ideas. For education. Now I buy as something to while away a quick twenty or thirty minute journey. Something lightweight.
And before someone points out my previous posts, all based on regular purchase of said items .... the reason I continue to buy Trail and TGO? (subscription just lapsed BTW) Part relevancy to the interests I have on this blog site and part optimism that things will improve.
Occasionally I uncover a gem. Sometimes an article is relevant to my needs. But mostly I end up dissatisfied. A feeling that there has to be more. And as any retailer understands. If you fail to satisfy the punter properly, forget any return trade.
So finally an appeal. Can anyone in any part of the press/print industry throw some light on this at all? (Whether privately or publicly)
I'd even be interested in meeting/visiting any of the mags/editorial teams in an effort to better understand the realities at first hand.
This ones bugging me. I can feel a chill wind blowing and I'd like to see which bugger has left the privy door open.Or is it the new wave blowing on by?
Labels: blog media, TGO Magazine, Trail Magazine
Tuesday, July 10
August Trail items
A couple of quick highlights after just finishing August's copy of Trail Magazine.
Again loads of content, but it tends to dissipate when looking for real detail , or perhaps that's just me expecting too much insight from what is a general outdoor readership mag after all.
An interesting wildcamping article, a little spoilt by 3 up in a tent. I could see the idea behind the article to persuade more women to enjoy the experience, but not the ideal way to be introduced to the concept of "carry light, travel far"
.......first get your great big heavy three (wo)man tent ..............you get the idea.
But to the things that caught my eye:
There's a link to courses run by the Institute of Public Rights of Way, to help manage rights of way issues. I adopted several local footpaths myself many years ago, the premise being walk them regularly to keep legal access rights fresh, and report back on obstructions. I also kept the way marking up, a constant challenge where path and housing estates converge.
On the whole the experience has been positive, although the approach of individual councils tends to vary dependant on their attitude, the location, and more importantly their available budget.
Yet another good reason for some local walking though.
Secondly a quick heads up ..........
If you happen to be planning a camp outdoors 23 July then look to the night sky when the Perseids meteor shower starts, for about a month. Peak time is supposed to be the 12th August, when I know one group of bloggers in particular will hopefully be away from all light pollution, looking to the sky.
One for the diary. Let's hope the weather accommodates accordingly.Labels: Trail Magazine
Sunday, July 1
Trail Challenge over & Keswick's George Fisher sold
It's interesting how one thing can lead to another, and another, and ... etc etc
I was checking the progress of the Trail Magazine Academy trio. Sarah writes: "The Trail thing is now officially over, and looking at the write up of the last expedition in the magazine, I’m quite glad I didn’t go. Looks like they walked a long way carrying a lot of kit and had a very uncomfortable night. I love the outdoors, and I enjoy camping, but I don’t believe in making things even more difficult for yourself! It’s a shame it’s over, and I appear to be the one who got the least out of it, but such is life"
Whatever Trail's intentions on the exercise it looks like some of the backpacking ethos & practice possibly didn't rub off in quite the way it was intended.
And as for the other two guinea pigs. Emma had a proposal of marriage, and Sian found out she was nearly pregnant, for a short while. It all seems to happen on these Trail programs doesn't it!
But they all seemed to have enjoyed the experience, and thanks to Sarah's blog for the tip off concerning the new Trail Gear Blog, which coincidentally appeared to to have hit the web around the time the repackaged TGO Forum/Blogsite was rolled out. Is that's what's called a spoiler in the press trade? Surely not.
As I was checking the links for this post I spotted this piece of recent news concerning the takeover of the highly regarded George Fisher shop in Keswick by the Tiso Group. Trail's news report is here.
Normally this sort of news would have appeared on the outdoor forums, but not a sniff that I've spotted so far. And nothing on GF's own site either (So does that count as a blogger scoop WD?)
As to the news, one commenter has positive comments on Tiso in Edinburgh(Tiso is largely unknown south of the Scottish border) so hopefully GF's excellent service and stocking policy will continue into the future.
And of course the web cam.Labels: blog media, Gear, Lake District, TGO Magazine, Trail Magazine
Wednesday, June 6
TGO website
The new TGO site is now up and running, and quickly filling with high quality content. Highly recommended
(Damn - that's more stuff to read on-line)
The main question - how will the TGO on-line version differ in content from the TGO print version?
I'm looking forward an interesting few months as I was aware Cameron had a 'pack full of ideas, and it's good to see the initiative starting to come into flower. Best of luck.
It'll be interesting to see how Trail/Country Walking respond to this initiative from Cameron's team, bearing in mind the content of some of the recent topics covered. Only coincidental I'm sure.Labels: TGO Magazine, Trail Magazine
Wednesday, May 2
Trail Post - Interesting Response
Hhhmmmm. Interesting.
Visits to this site more than doubled following a couple of comments I left on OM concerning the value of Trail's piece on 'Lightweight Lakes'. All looking at this post.
None felt the need to leave a comment. But the interest level leads me to suspect I may have hit a sympathetic nerve.
Discuss?Labels: blog media, Trail Magazine
Monday, April 30
Trail Magazine - June
Another month, another well laid trap to fall into. Again.
Curses! Clever these publishers. I should have learnt my lesson by now.
Lots of lovely articles to dig into, but once again a sense of deflation. Why is that? A quick glance at the articles:
- Good bit on the new via ferrata route at Honister Hause slate mine
- 'Get into wildcamping' Nice try, but bullet points on a single page - give me a break!
- Philosophy of Lightweight. Interesting, but more content, less double page pictures
- Essential equipment - Ha ha. Got me going there. I was half way through the article before I read 'an adequate supply of water is essential but insufficient' What on earth? Oh right - a sponsored article by the Sugar Bureau aka Designer drinks good; Water bad. Naughty. Very naughty
- Sub 2k tents - reasonable article.
- How to buy a soft shell - with the lead-in stating ".....which is why you need one" Oh. And there's me without one. Heresy. A quick scour of the article and I finally found the answer. In small text. On a green background. Still got no real idea why I 'must' have one. A pity it came across as an order. I don't react well to that sort of approach. Sloppy journalism on an otherwise good article though.
- Eiger history- great bit, this is more like it.
And so on..........
One thought as I dropped it in the recycle rack (after only 1/2 hour reading this month) was a topic that seem to mirror some of my older blog posts (e.g. Walks/Public transport)
Now I've got no monopoly on that idea. After all it's been around for years, but I do recall trying to explain how easily it can be achieved and why. A bit strange to see the number of routes labelled as Public Transport. When did that first start popping up?
This months cover price£3.50; Or £7.00 an hour at my interest level.
And you have this blog all for free. Peachy
Labels: Trail Magazine
Thursday, April 5
TGO, Trail (and the Outdoor Show?)
I'd just finished off May's issue of Trail magazine when postie dropped my copy of TGO onto the doormat. So once more a comparative response due to an accident of timing.
I'd been tempted into buying Trail for the second month in a row by the cover's teaser headings, and a very quick thumb thru before purchase.
It looked good in the shop. But once more I found that I rapidly skipped through it, the chopped-up page layout making it more of a 'dip-into' style, rather than any sort of absorbing read.
But again I felt left with an unsatisfied feeling, and no real reaction to most of the articles, beyond what I've already said about sponsored articles.
The Brecon Beacons routes stuff was ok; Oh and I'll definitely cross a visit to the Dove Crag's Priest's Hole Cave off my list for several months. It wasn't the biggest secret in the Lakeland walks world, but it will attract too much attention now its been included as just another 'great night away'. This Easter weekend should be fun - lol (Just grateful that the other spots I know were overlooked. But perhaps that's why I found them in the first place and continue to use them. Not intended as elitism on my part, more my more solitary enjoyment of the fellside)
TGO was a bit more thought provoking.
For once Jim Perrin's stuff grabbed me, and I wanted to read to the end of his article.
Chris Townsend (as always) delivered the goods, with a thoughtful look at lightweight clothing systems. His point, as I took it, being more about approach to use and mix of clothing, rather than a formulaic Gear A plus Gear B plus Gear C = result. I've already used this mindset successfully last year, shaving pounds of my pack weight by losing the fleece with adding a windproof (Montane Lite-Speed - a real find)
So with both mags put aside, I suddenly realised - not one report about the NEC Outdoors Show in mid April?
Plenty of press beforehand, but no post show round-up? Perhaps the deadline dates for May's copy was too early for the show report, but it leads me to a point I've raised before about one of the roles of the (for want of a better phrase) 'new media'.
The various UK Outdoors Bloggers that attended reported on the event on the day, or within a few days.
The copy may have been at times opinionated and possibly even amateurish, but it did represent a timely man-in-the-street response to what was on offer.
Andy Howell delayed release of the multi podcast reports until earlier this week, possibly while he waited for the return of his technical support guru? (p.s. AH -is the podzine web page detail right, it seems to talk about Harrogate 2006 fair?). Check here if you want to download free of charge.
But from the mags I've read, a recognisable source used by most of the outdoor walking fraternity - nothing. (Anyone out there in magazine world care to respond?)
As I've said before, on-line media is complimentary to established publishing methodology.
But hey sometimes we bloggers do have a definite edge.
Labels: TGO Magazine, Trail Magazine, UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
All site material © John Hee - ask before you snatch
There's something rather smelly happening in the UK Outdoor magazine world. Possibly reflective of the traditional print media, as a whole?
More to follow in the next few days once I've dug a little deeper.
Labels: blog media, media, TGO Magazine, Trail Magazine
TGO & Trail Magazine; And what's a 'Heat Exchange Mask' then?
Pre the Outdoor Show I decided to take a look at the latest outdoor magazines. Well, when I say take a look what I really mean is buy rather than spend 5 minutes in the local W.H. Smith's library, flicking through the increasingly expensive offerings (well compared to the time it takes me to read them at least!)
I've rather given up on these mags over the winter months as the content had become a little staid.
Trail was easy to locate (WHS naturally) but TGO was a b*gger to chase down. No thanks to the newsagent in the centre of Christchurch who kindly informed me here was "No demand for walking magazines around this area" Well why was I asking for one then? But a similar request at a small shop in Bransgore, after one of my New Forest wanders earlier today turned up both a knowledgeable newsagent, and nice shiny copy.
And happily well worth the search.
I don't know what the team at TGO may have been imbibing recently but the magazine is back on form with a Bang. Entertaining, informative and challenging. And as editor Cameron McNeish intimated in the prerelease vidcast trailer, if Eddy Meechan carries on like he's started off already there's plenty of sparks ready to fly. I had to admit the heat exchange mask made me laugh at first. But then I read the article and thought - well why not? (and AS has his own view here)
And that is what we buy a magazine for surely? To learn and to challenge accepted opinion; And then to make up our own minds.
TGO 1; Trail 0;
No contest.
And that's despite the NEC Blogger Meet-up being publicised as one of the attractions of the Outdoors Show though. Would have been nice to have been asked beforehand? And I guess the Jennings stand may have some thoughts on that one as well. Which we may find out on the day I guess ( Naughty naughty)Labels: media, NEC Outdoors Show, TGO Magazine, Trail Magazine
Monday, August 6
Timeless Flight - A second bite
And whilst I'm playing catch-up on recent articles, there has been some thoughtful responses about the status of Outdoor magazines.
Lighthiker made an interesting point, which I've heard before, and would mostly agree with. But I think there's more to it than at first glance:
"People have the idea that the Internet is "free" and wouldn't pay for a subscription of a website the same price they pay for the printed magazine. And to some extent I also need to blame bloggers like myself. I post about gear. I make no money out of it and people can read it for free. So if they find the info they want let's say about the latest tents on my blog or others why buying a printed magazine? The only thing that can make a difference would be big in-depth tests and some kind of premium (and I mean premium) content which differs them from what is available for free online. ................ Not many advertisers would move online as their ad will be easier overlooked/clicked away and magazines can't charge them the same rates for online advertising compared to the printed version.Things might change over time when the Internet becomes so cheap and accessible that everybody can use it all the time at every place and the reading habits change also. It will come but probably is 5-10 years from now"
I'd especially agree on the "Internet= Free" model. Would Podcast Bob's excellent output have the same appeal if the podcasts were chargeable? An issue I know Bob continues to tussle with.
For these sort of things I always look to the prime example of supply and demand in action. One of the oldest commercial concerns in the communication medias. It was straight in there as soon as the pictures and the written word started to be used for mass communication.
It is of course the Sex Industry.
Whatever your personal feelings about the product for sale their providers work in one of the strongest surviving markets. And one of the most cut throat and pressured. It is one that's continued to survive despite the attempts of law, social disapproval and religious stricture. Sex sells, as advertisers spend so many dreary millions of $$$$ trying hard to avoid telling us (subtle ads; trick story lines; subliminal messages etc)
But as an industry they are very early adopters in communication and retail environments.
And much as Playboy print magazine of the 50s eventually became a household name, a designer label, and a mult media industry, the modern day spawn of the porn sites were on the net early, and have tried most of the tricks in the book to make websites pay. Even inventing a few new ones along the way, some legitimate, some particularly odious.
Ditto digital TV/view on demand etc - a marketplace in which the big corporations are still very much feeling their way at present.
BTW I'm not suggesting that we should try to make too close a comparison between the outdoor industry here!
But consider some key elements from that sphere.........
- The way in which the print format has adopted certain facets of the digital media, whilst still retaining some of the traditional format, for non adopters, but with a revised demand model and pricing structure.
- The adoption of real time information feeds e.g. webcam
- Interaction with the demand points i.e. Joe Public via a variety of alternatives (e.g. mobile phones)
- Free site content as a loss leader to a subscription model
- Ease of use
- E-tail spin-off business targeting a High Street audience, without the legislative issues or premise overhead. Or the social disapproval.
...... etc etc
I'm no expert in this area- no honestly! But any one who has experienced the Internet for more than a simple usage quickly finds it difficult to avoid a variety of content delivery all trying their independent methods of making that elusive buck. The sex/porn industry, despite its lack of general social acceptability (in fact possibly because of that?) has been by far the one with the most widespread impact globally across the web. And one of the biggest money takers I suspect.
As I said earlier. Watch the model, not the product. Some sales will always be easier. Some models less complex.
But learn from the successful and adapt to your own concern.
"It will come but probably is 5-10 years from now"
I'd say that's already here for some retailers. The question is whether established product providers adopt, adapt, or maybe even just avoid. Labels: blog media, TGO Magazine, Trail Magazine
Friday, August 3
Timeless Flight. Have Outdoor Magazines met their nadir?
An unexpected delay on my flight back during a business trip earlier today gave me the dubious opportunity to sit in Liverpool Airport reading the September copy of Trail magazine.
Dubious?
Well with rather too many long hours to while away there was a temptation to read and reread the magazine sat in my lap. Or even to critically assess the content, presentation and format. Which is a little unfair on my part really because Trail Magazine is honestly not that sort of reading material. It never pretends to be a 'work of art' for critical analysis, but a monthly outdoor mag ("The UK's biggest selling hill-walking magazine") to provide information whilst remaining entertaining.
And as I sit here tip-tip-tapping into my faithful Psion 5, the flight has just been called (finally), so I'd better make this a very quick round-up, and clean it up back at home (which I'm now doing)
I'd have to say that Trail is not only a little light on content, but is starting to lay itself open to the accusation of being noticeably dated with some articles. For instance - a couple of references to Steve Perry's charity trip (aborted prematurely at the start of last week), a circular route over Caldbeck Fells the pictures showing a frozen landscape (so how long ago was that trip then?)
I do appreciate the unavoidable delay between putting the issue to bed, and distributing the printed article to the retailer. But how long is the delay, and does it remain acceptable these days? After all newspapers appear each morning based on the previous day's happenings.
I assume the advantage of delayed release for magazines is more financially motivated, but how long are we talking here?
But I digress. Back to the plot JH.
I'd forgive the Perry ref as just being one of those timing things, but in general the relevancy if some articles is becoming an issue these days with 3-4 month article lead times appearing quite common. And news? Well it isn't really. As Perry's mishap unintentionally proved.
I'm sure if I looked a little closer I'd discover this is not an issue limited just to Trail, or even the Outdoor magazine sector. Why as a reading public are we paying highish prices (Trail-£3.50) for something that is not necessarily a reflection of the season and outdoor experiences we ourselves are having?
Or to put it another way. Why on the 3rd day of August am I reading a magazine marked September, but based on articles compiled, at my guess, sometime in March/April? A six month gap?
I repeat this is not aimed at Trail magazine per se. That esteemed publishing team continue to attract a strong readership so are obviously meeting a demand from numerous readers. But there comes a point when the accumulation of the cost for three or four months mags may be better spent on (say) a reference/route guide to Scotland in a book form. And that at least would be something I'd keep and use later. As opposed to stockpiling old mags for years, and finally throwing them away finding no-one else to take them on. That was a moment of satori, and a weight off the attic woodwork, when I realised I'd never referred to one back issue in all the time I'd kept them. Not once.
Well that may say more about me, or what I expect these days from the publishing industry.
Even the on-line version of TGO took a couple of days to post about Steve Perry, although I suspect they were waiting for comment from Steve himself.
Or perhaps I'm becoming more demanding as an increasing amount of news and reviews are via websites, outdoor forums, and yes you've guess it - Blogs. All immediate medias. Quality and veracity of course varying tremendously. But a cross section of views and feedback offers me much more of a consensus view. And usually some come back to the individuals concerned.
But mostly I expect to read far more critical and detailed reviews, based on real life use, on the net. There's no advertiser's to be wary of (and no matter how independent the mag that is always a consideration to some extent. It's only human nature after all) There are expectations to this of course - Judy Armstrong/Chris Townsend being very good at calling a spade a spade where it counts.
But it does look like the outdoor magazine is these days becoming more of a......?
Well to be honest I'm not too sure what they are at the moment. And where they fit into the future of media/audience communication.
But at the moment I can't help but feel that something is slipping away from some sectors of the magazine industry.
Once I read the essential monthly copy for information. For new ideas. For education. Now I buy as something to while away a quick twenty or thirty minute journey. Something lightweight.
And before someone points out my previous posts, all based on regular purchase of said items .... the reason I continue to buy Trail and TGO? (subscription just lapsed BTW) Part relevancy to the interests I have on this blog site and part optimism that things will improve.
Occasionally I uncover a gem. Sometimes an article is relevant to my needs. But mostly I end up dissatisfied. A feeling that there has to be more. And as any retailer understands. If you fail to satisfy the punter properly, forget any return trade.
So finally an appeal. Can anyone in any part of the press/print industry throw some light on this at all? (Whether privately or publicly)
I'd even be interested in meeting/visiting any of the mags/editorial teams in an effort to better understand the realities at first hand.
This ones bugging me. I can feel a chill wind blowing and I'd like to see which bugger has left the privy door open.Or is it the new wave blowing on by?
Labels: blog media, TGO Magazine, Trail Magazine
Tuesday, July 10
August Trail items
A couple of quick highlights after just finishing August's copy of Trail Magazine.
Again loads of content, but it tends to dissipate when looking for real detail , or perhaps that's just me expecting too much insight from what is a general outdoor readership mag after all.
An interesting wildcamping article, a little spoilt by 3 up in a tent. I could see the idea behind the article to persuade more women to enjoy the experience, but not the ideal way to be introduced to the concept of "carry light, travel far"
.......first get your great big heavy three (wo)man tent ..............you get the idea.
But to the things that caught my eye:
There's a link to courses run by the Institute of Public Rights of Way, to help manage rights of way issues. I adopted several local footpaths myself many years ago, the premise being walk them regularly to keep legal access rights fresh, and report back on obstructions. I also kept the way marking up, a constant challenge where path and housing estates converge.
On the whole the experience has been positive, although the approach of individual councils tends to vary dependant on their attitude, the location, and more importantly their available budget.
Yet another good reason for some local walking though.
Secondly a quick heads up ..........
If you happen to be planning a camp outdoors 23 July then look to the night sky when the Perseids meteor shower starts, for about a month. Peak time is supposed to be the 12th August, when I know one group of bloggers in particular will hopefully be away from all light pollution, looking to the sky.
One for the diary. Let's hope the weather accommodates accordingly.Labels: Trail Magazine
Sunday, July 1
Trail Challenge over & Keswick's George Fisher sold
It's interesting how one thing can lead to another, and another, and ... etc etc
I was checking the progress of the Trail Magazine Academy trio. Sarah writes: "The Trail thing is now officially over, and looking at the write up of the last expedition in the magazine, I’m quite glad I didn’t go. Looks like they walked a long way carrying a lot of kit and had a very uncomfortable night. I love the outdoors, and I enjoy camping, but I don’t believe in making things even more difficult for yourself! It’s a shame it’s over, and I appear to be the one who got the least out of it, but such is life"
Whatever Trail's intentions on the exercise it looks like some of the backpacking ethos & practice possibly didn't rub off in quite the way it was intended.
And as for the other two guinea pigs. Emma had a proposal of marriage, and Sian found out she was nearly pregnant, for a short while. It all seems to happen on these Trail programs doesn't it!
But they all seemed to have enjoyed the experience, and thanks to Sarah's blog for the tip off concerning the new Trail Gear Blog, which coincidentally appeared to to have hit the web around the time the repackaged TGO Forum/Blogsite was rolled out. Is that's what's called a spoiler in the press trade? Surely not.
As I was checking the links for this post I spotted this piece of recent news concerning the takeover of the highly regarded George Fisher shop in Keswick by the Tiso Group. Trail's news report is here.
Normally this sort of news would have appeared on the outdoor forums, but not a sniff that I've spotted so far. And nothing on GF's own site either (So does that count as a blogger scoop WD?)
As to the news, one commenter has positive comments on Tiso in Edinburgh(Tiso is largely unknown south of the Scottish border) so hopefully GF's excellent service and stocking policy will continue into the future.
And of course the web cam.Labels: blog media, Gear, Lake District, TGO Magazine, Trail Magazine
Wednesday, June 6
TGO website
The new TGO site is now up and running, and quickly filling with high quality content. Highly recommended
(Damn - that's more stuff to read on-line)
The main question - how will the TGO on-line version differ in content from the TGO print version?
I'm looking forward an interesting few months as I was aware Cameron had a 'pack full of ideas, and it's good to see the initiative starting to come into flower. Best of luck.
It'll be interesting to see how Trail/Country Walking respond to this initiative from Cameron's team, bearing in mind the content of some of the recent topics covered. Only coincidental I'm sure.Labels: TGO Magazine, Trail Magazine
Wednesday, May 2
Trail Post - Interesting Response
Hhhmmmm. Interesting.
Visits to this site more than doubled following a couple of comments I left on OM concerning the value of Trail's piece on 'Lightweight Lakes'. All looking at this post.
None felt the need to leave a comment. But the interest level leads me to suspect I may have hit a sympathetic nerve.
Discuss?Labels: blog media, Trail Magazine
Monday, April 30
Trail Magazine - June
Another month, another well laid trap to fall into. Again.
Curses! Clever these publishers. I should have learnt my lesson by now.
Lots of lovely articles to dig into, but once again a sense of deflation. Why is that? A quick glance at the articles:
- Good bit on the new via ferrata route at Honister Hause slate mine
- 'Get into wildcamping' Nice try, but bullet points on a single page - give me a break!
- Philosophy of Lightweight. Interesting, but more content, less double page pictures
- Essential equipment - Ha ha. Got me going there. I was half way through the article before I read 'an adequate supply of water is essential but insufficient' What on earth? Oh right - a sponsored article by the Sugar Bureau aka Designer drinks good; Water bad. Naughty. Very naughty
- Sub 2k tents - reasonable article.
- How to buy a soft shell - with the lead-in stating ".....which is why you need one" Oh. And there's me without one. Heresy. A quick scour of the article and I finally found the answer. In small text. On a green background. Still got no real idea why I 'must' have one. A pity it came across as an order. I don't react well to that sort of approach. Sloppy journalism on an otherwise good article though.
- Eiger history- great bit, this is more like it.
And so on..........
One thought as I dropped it in the recycle rack (after only 1/2 hour reading this month) was a topic that seem to mirror some of my older blog posts (e.g. Walks/Public transport)
Now I've got no monopoly on that idea. After all it's been around for years, but I do recall trying to explain how easily it can be achieved and why. A bit strange to see the number of routes labelled as Public Transport. When did that first start popping up?
This months cover price£3.50; Or £7.00 an hour at my interest level.
And you have this blog all for free. Peachy
Labels: Trail Magazine
Thursday, April 5
TGO, Trail (and the Outdoor Show?)
I'd just finished off May's issue of Trail magazine when postie dropped my copy of TGO onto the doormat. So once more a comparative response due to an accident of timing.
I'd been tempted into buying Trail for the second month in a row by the cover's teaser headings, and a very quick thumb thru before purchase.
It looked good in the shop. But once more I found that I rapidly skipped through it, the chopped-up page layout making it more of a 'dip-into' style, rather than any sort of absorbing read.
But again I felt left with an unsatisfied feeling, and no real reaction to most of the articles, beyond what I've already said about sponsored articles.
The Brecon Beacons routes stuff was ok; Oh and I'll definitely cross a visit to the Dove Crag's Priest's Hole Cave off my list for several months. It wasn't the biggest secret in the Lakeland walks world, but it will attract too much attention now its been included as just another 'great night away'. This Easter weekend should be fun - lol (Just grateful that the other spots I know were overlooked. But perhaps that's why I found them in the first place and continue to use them. Not intended as elitism on my part, more my more solitary enjoyment of the fellside)
TGO was a bit more thought provoking.
For once Jim Perrin's stuff grabbed me, and I wanted to read to the end of his article.
Chris Townsend (as always) delivered the goods, with a thoughtful look at lightweight clothing systems. His point, as I took it, being more about approach to use and mix of clothing, rather than a formulaic Gear A plus Gear B plus Gear C = result. I've already used this mindset successfully last year, shaving pounds of my pack weight by losing the fleece with adding a windproof (Montane Lite-Speed - a real find)
So with both mags put aside, I suddenly realised - not one report about the NEC Outdoors Show in mid April?
Plenty of press beforehand, but no post show round-up? Perhaps the deadline dates for May's copy was too early for the show report, but it leads me to a point I've raised before about one of the roles of the (for want of a better phrase) 'new media'.
The various UK Outdoors Bloggers that attended reported on the event on the day, or within a few days.
The copy may have been at times opinionated and possibly even amateurish, but it did represent a timely man-in-the-street response to what was on offer.
Andy Howell delayed release of the multi podcast reports until earlier this week, possibly while he waited for the return of his technical support guru? (p.s. AH -is the podzine web page detail right, it seems to talk about Harrogate 2006 fair?). Check here if you want to download free of charge.
But from the mags I've read, a recognisable source used by most of the outdoor walking fraternity - nothing. (Anyone out there in magazine world care to respond?)
As I've said before, on-line media is complimentary to established publishing methodology.
But hey sometimes we bloggers do have a definite edge.
Labels: TGO Magazine, Trail Magazine, UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
All site material © John Hee - ask before you snatch
I've rather given up on these mags over the winter months as the content had become a little staid.
Trail was easy to locate (WHS naturally) but TGO was a b*gger to chase down. No thanks to the newsagent in the centre of Christchurch who kindly informed me here was "No demand for walking magazines around this area" Well why was I asking for one then? But a similar request at a small shop in Bransgore, after one of my New Forest wanders earlier today turned up both a knowledgeable newsagent, and nice shiny copy.
And happily well worth the search.
I don't know what the team at TGO may have been imbibing recently but the magazine is back on form with a Bang. Entertaining, informative and challenging. And as editor Cameron McNeish intimated in the prerelease vidcast trailer, if Eddy Meechan carries on like he's started off already there's plenty of sparks ready to fly. I had to admit the heat exchange mask made me laugh at first. But then I read the article and thought - well why not? (and AS has his own view here)
And that is what we buy a magazine for surely? To learn and to challenge accepted opinion; And then to make up our own minds.
TGO 1; Trail 0;
No contest.
And that's despite the NEC Blogger Meet-up being publicised as one of the attractions of the Outdoors Show though. Would have been nice to have been asked beforehand? And I guess the Jennings stand may have some thoughts on that one as well. Which we may find out on the day I guess ( Naughty naughty)
Labels: media, NEC Outdoors Show, TGO Magazine, Trail Magazine
Timeless Flight - A second bite
And whilst I'm playing catch-up on recent articles, there has been some thoughtful responses about the status of Outdoor magazines.
Lighthiker made an interesting point, which I've heard before, and would mostly agree with. But I think there's more to it than at first glance:
"People have the idea that the Internet is "free" and wouldn't pay for a subscription of a website the same price they pay for the printed magazine. And to some extent I also need to blame bloggers like myself. I post about gear. I make no money out of it and people can read it for free. So if they find the info they want let's say about the latest tents on my blog or others why buying a printed magazine? The only thing that can make a difference would be big in-depth tests and some kind of premium (and I mean premium) content which differs them from what is available for free online. ................ Not many advertisers would move online as their ad will be easier overlooked/clicked away and magazines can't charge them the same rates for online advertising compared to the printed version.Things might change over time when the Internet becomes so cheap and accessible that everybody can use it all the time at every place and the reading habits change also. It will come but probably is 5-10 years from now"
I'd especially agree on the "Internet= Free" model. Would Podcast Bob's excellent output have the same appeal if the podcasts were chargeable? An issue I know Bob continues to tussle with.
For these sort of things I always look to the prime example of supply and demand in action. One of the oldest commercial concerns in the communication medias. It was straight in there as soon as the pictures and the written word started to be used for mass communication.
It is of course the Sex Industry.
Whatever your personal feelings about the product for sale their providers work in one of the strongest surviving markets. And one of the most cut throat and pressured. It is one that's continued to survive despite the attempts of law, social disapproval and religious stricture. Sex sells, as advertisers spend so many dreary millions of $$$$ trying hard to avoid telling us (subtle ads; trick story lines; subliminal messages etc)
But as an industry they are very early adopters in communication and retail environments.
And much as Playboy print magazine of the 50s eventually became a household name, a designer label, and a mult media industry, the modern day spawn of the porn sites were on the net early, and have tried most of the tricks in the book to make websites pay. Even inventing a few new ones along the way, some legitimate, some particularly odious.
Ditto digital TV/view on demand etc - a marketplace in which the big corporations are still very much feeling their way at present.
BTW I'm not suggesting that we should try to make too close a comparison between the outdoor industry here!
But consider some key elements from that sphere.........
- The way in which the print format has adopted certain facets of the digital media, whilst still retaining some of the traditional format, for non adopters, but with a revised demand model and pricing structure.
- The adoption of real time information feeds e.g. webcam
- Interaction with the demand points i.e. Joe Public via a variety of alternatives (e.g. mobile phones)
- Free site content as a loss leader to a subscription model
- Ease of use
- E-tail spin-off business targeting a High Street audience, without the legislative issues or premise overhead. Or the social disapproval.
...... etc etc
I'm no expert in this area- no honestly! But any one who has experienced the Internet for more than a simple usage quickly finds it difficult to avoid a variety of content delivery all trying their independent methods of making that elusive buck. The sex/porn industry, despite its lack of general social acceptability (in fact possibly because of that?) has been by far the one with the most widespread impact globally across the web. And one of the biggest money takers I suspect.
As I said earlier. Watch the model, not the product. Some sales will always be easier. Some models less complex.
But learn from the successful and adapt to your own concern.
"It will come but probably is 5-10 years from now"
I'd say that's already here for some retailers. The question is whether established product providers adopt, adapt, or maybe even just avoid. Labels: blog media, TGO Magazine, Trail Magazine
Friday, August 3
Timeless Flight. Have Outdoor Magazines met their nadir?
An unexpected delay on my flight back during a business trip earlier today gave me the dubious opportunity to sit in Liverpool Airport reading the September copy of Trail magazine.
Dubious?
Well with rather too many long hours to while away there was a temptation to read and reread the magazine sat in my lap. Or even to critically assess the content, presentation and format. Which is a little unfair on my part really because Trail Magazine is honestly not that sort of reading material. It never pretends to be a 'work of art' for critical analysis, but a monthly outdoor mag ("The UK's biggest selling hill-walking magazine") to provide information whilst remaining entertaining.
And as I sit here tip-tip-tapping into my faithful Psion 5, the flight has just been called (finally), so I'd better make this a very quick round-up, and clean it up back at home (which I'm now doing)
I'd have to say that Trail is not only a little light on content, but is starting to lay itself open to the accusation of being noticeably dated with some articles. For instance - a couple of references to Steve Perry's charity trip (aborted prematurely at the start of last week), a circular route over Caldbeck Fells the pictures showing a frozen landscape (so how long ago was that trip then?)
I do appreciate the unavoidable delay between putting the issue to bed, and distributing the printed article to the retailer. But how long is the delay, and does it remain acceptable these days? After all newspapers appear each morning based on the previous day's happenings.
I assume the advantage of delayed release for magazines is more financially motivated, but how long are we talking here?
But I digress. Back to the plot JH.
I'd forgive the Perry ref as just being one of those timing things, but in general the relevancy if some articles is becoming an issue these days with 3-4 month article lead times appearing quite common. And news? Well it isn't really. As Perry's mishap unintentionally proved.
I'm sure if I looked a little closer I'd discover this is not an issue limited just to Trail, or even the Outdoor magazine sector. Why as a reading public are we paying highish prices (Trail-£3.50) for something that is not necessarily a reflection of the season and outdoor experiences we ourselves are having?
Or to put it another way. Why on the 3rd day of August am I reading a magazine marked September, but based on articles compiled, at my guess, sometime in March/April? A six month gap?
I repeat this is not aimed at Trail magazine per se. That esteemed publishing team continue to attract a strong readership so are obviously meeting a demand from numerous readers. But there comes a point when the accumulation of the cost for three or four months mags may be better spent on (say) a reference/route guide to Scotland in a book form. And that at least would be something I'd keep and use later. As opposed to stockpiling old mags for years, and finally throwing them away finding no-one else to take them on. That was a moment of satori, and a weight off the attic woodwork, when I realised I'd never referred to one back issue in all the time I'd kept them. Not once.
Well that may say more about me, or what I expect these days from the publishing industry.
Even the on-line version of TGO took a couple of days to post about Steve Perry, although I suspect they were waiting for comment from Steve himself.
Or perhaps I'm becoming more demanding as an increasing amount of news and reviews are via websites, outdoor forums, and yes you've guess it - Blogs. All immediate medias. Quality and veracity of course varying tremendously. But a cross section of views and feedback offers me much more of a consensus view. And usually some come back to the individuals concerned.
But mostly I expect to read far more critical and detailed reviews, based on real life use, on the net. There's no advertiser's to be wary of (and no matter how independent the mag that is always a consideration to some extent. It's only human nature after all) There are expectations to this of course - Judy Armstrong/Chris Townsend being very good at calling a spade a spade where it counts.
But it does look like the outdoor magazine is these days becoming more of a......?
Well to be honest I'm not too sure what they are at the moment. And where they fit into the future of media/audience communication.
But at the moment I can't help but feel that something is slipping away from some sectors of the magazine industry.
Once I read the essential monthly copy for information. For new ideas. For education. Now I buy as something to while away a quick twenty or thirty minute journey. Something lightweight.
And before someone points out my previous posts, all based on regular purchase of said items .... the reason I continue to buy Trail and TGO? (subscription just lapsed BTW) Part relevancy to the interests I have on this blog site and part optimism that things will improve.
Occasionally I uncover a gem. Sometimes an article is relevant to my needs. But mostly I end up dissatisfied. A feeling that there has to be more. And as any retailer understands. If you fail to satisfy the punter properly, forget any return trade.
So finally an appeal. Can anyone in any part of the press/print industry throw some light on this at all? (Whether privately or publicly)
I'd even be interested in meeting/visiting any of the mags/editorial teams in an effort to better understand the realities at first hand.
This ones bugging me. I can feel a chill wind blowing and I'd like to see which bugger has left the privy door open.Or is it the new wave blowing on by?
Labels: blog media, TGO Magazine, Trail Magazine
Tuesday, July 10
August Trail items
A couple of quick highlights after just finishing August's copy of Trail Magazine.
Again loads of content, but it tends to dissipate when looking for real detail , or perhaps that's just me expecting too much insight from what is a general outdoor readership mag after all.
An interesting wildcamping article, a little spoilt by 3 up in a tent. I could see the idea behind the article to persuade more women to enjoy the experience, but not the ideal way to be introduced to the concept of "carry light, travel far"
.......first get your great big heavy three (wo)man tent ..............you get the idea.
But to the things that caught my eye:
There's a link to courses run by the Institute of Public Rights of Way, to help manage rights of way issues. I adopted several local footpaths myself many years ago, the premise being walk them regularly to keep legal access rights fresh, and report back on obstructions. I also kept the way marking up, a constant challenge where path and housing estates converge.
On the whole the experience has been positive, although the approach of individual councils tends to vary dependant on their attitude, the location, and more importantly their available budget.
Yet another good reason for some local walking though.
Secondly a quick heads up ..........
If you happen to be planning a camp outdoors 23 July then look to the night sky when the Perseids meteor shower starts, for about a month. Peak time is supposed to be the 12th August, when I know one group of bloggers in particular will hopefully be away from all light pollution, looking to the sky.
One for the diary. Let's hope the weather accommodates accordingly.Labels: Trail Magazine
Sunday, July 1
Trail Challenge over & Keswick's George Fisher sold
It's interesting how one thing can lead to another, and another, and ... etc etc
I was checking the progress of the Trail Magazine Academy trio. Sarah writes: "The Trail thing is now officially over, and looking at the write up of the last expedition in the magazine, I’m quite glad I didn’t go. Looks like they walked a long way carrying a lot of kit and had a very uncomfortable night. I love the outdoors, and I enjoy camping, but I don’t believe in making things even more difficult for yourself! It’s a shame it’s over, and I appear to be the one who got the least out of it, but such is life"
Whatever Trail's intentions on the exercise it looks like some of the backpacking ethos & practice possibly didn't rub off in quite the way it was intended.
And as for the other two guinea pigs. Emma had a proposal of marriage, and Sian found out she was nearly pregnant, for a short while. It all seems to happen on these Trail programs doesn't it!
But they all seemed to have enjoyed the experience, and thanks to Sarah's blog for the tip off concerning the new Trail Gear Blog, which coincidentally appeared to to have hit the web around the time the repackaged TGO Forum/Blogsite was rolled out. Is that's what's called a spoiler in the press trade? Surely not.
As I was checking the links for this post I spotted this piece of recent news concerning the takeover of the highly regarded George Fisher shop in Keswick by the Tiso Group. Trail's news report is here.
Normally this sort of news would have appeared on the outdoor forums, but not a sniff that I've spotted so far. And nothing on GF's own site either (So does that count as a blogger scoop WD?)
As to the news, one commenter has positive comments on Tiso in Edinburgh(Tiso is largely unknown south of the Scottish border) so hopefully GF's excellent service and stocking policy will continue into the future.
And of course the web cam.Labels: blog media, Gear, Lake District, TGO Magazine, Trail Magazine
Wednesday, June 6
TGO website
The new TGO site is now up and running, and quickly filling with high quality content. Highly recommended
(Damn - that's more stuff to read on-line)
The main question - how will the TGO on-line version differ in content from the TGO print version?
I'm looking forward an interesting few months as I was aware Cameron had a 'pack full of ideas, and it's good to see the initiative starting to come into flower. Best of luck.
It'll be interesting to see how Trail/Country Walking respond to this initiative from Cameron's team, bearing in mind the content of some of the recent topics covered. Only coincidental I'm sure.Labels: TGO Magazine, Trail Magazine
Wednesday, May 2
Trail Post - Interesting Response
Hhhmmmm. Interesting.
Visits to this site more than doubled following a couple of comments I left on OM concerning the value of Trail's piece on 'Lightweight Lakes'. All looking at this post.
None felt the need to leave a comment. But the interest level leads me to suspect I may have hit a sympathetic nerve.
Discuss?Labels: blog media, Trail Magazine
Monday, April 30
Trail Magazine - June
Another month, another well laid trap to fall into. Again.
Curses! Clever these publishers. I should have learnt my lesson by now.
Lots of lovely articles to dig into, but once again a sense of deflation. Why is that? A quick glance at the articles:
- Good bit on the new via ferrata route at Honister Hause slate mine
- 'Get into wildcamping' Nice try, but bullet points on a single page - give me a break!
- Philosophy of Lightweight. Interesting, but more content, less double page pictures
- Essential equipment - Ha ha. Got me going there. I was half way through the article before I read 'an adequate supply of water is essential but insufficient' What on earth? Oh right - a sponsored article by the Sugar Bureau aka Designer drinks good; Water bad. Naughty. Very naughty
- Sub 2k tents - reasonable article.
- How to buy a soft shell - with the lead-in stating ".....which is why you need one" Oh. And there's me without one. Heresy. A quick scour of the article and I finally found the answer. In small text. On a green background. Still got no real idea why I 'must' have one. A pity it came across as an order. I don't react well to that sort of approach. Sloppy journalism on an otherwise good article though.
- Eiger history- great bit, this is more like it.
And so on..........
One thought as I dropped it in the recycle rack (after only 1/2 hour reading this month) was a topic that seem to mirror some of my older blog posts (e.g. Walks/Public transport)
Now I've got no monopoly on that idea. After all it's been around for years, but I do recall trying to explain how easily it can be achieved and why. A bit strange to see the number of routes labelled as Public Transport. When did that first start popping up?
This months cover price£3.50; Or £7.00 an hour at my interest level.
And you have this blog all for free. Peachy
Labels: Trail Magazine
Thursday, April 5
TGO, Trail (and the Outdoor Show?)
I'd just finished off May's issue of Trail magazine when postie dropped my copy of TGO onto the doormat. So once more a comparative response due to an accident of timing.
I'd been tempted into buying Trail for the second month in a row by the cover's teaser headings, and a very quick thumb thru before purchase.
It looked good in the shop. But once more I found that I rapidly skipped through it, the chopped-up page layout making it more of a 'dip-into' style, rather than any sort of absorbing read.
But again I felt left with an unsatisfied feeling, and no real reaction to most of the articles, beyond what I've already said about sponsored articles.
The Brecon Beacons routes stuff was ok; Oh and I'll definitely cross a visit to the Dove Crag's Priest's Hole Cave off my list for several months. It wasn't the biggest secret in the Lakeland walks world, but it will attract too much attention now its been included as just another 'great night away'. This Easter weekend should be fun - lol (Just grateful that the other spots I know were overlooked. But perhaps that's why I found them in the first place and continue to use them. Not intended as elitism on my part, more my more solitary enjoyment of the fellside)
TGO was a bit more thought provoking.
For once Jim Perrin's stuff grabbed me, and I wanted to read to the end of his article.
Chris Townsend (as always) delivered the goods, with a thoughtful look at lightweight clothing systems. His point, as I took it, being more about approach to use and mix of clothing, rather than a formulaic Gear A plus Gear B plus Gear C = result. I've already used this mindset successfully last year, shaving pounds of my pack weight by losing the fleece with adding a windproof (Montane Lite-Speed - a real find)
So with both mags put aside, I suddenly realised - not one report about the NEC Outdoors Show in mid April?
Plenty of press beforehand, but no post show round-up? Perhaps the deadline dates for May's copy was too early for the show report, but it leads me to a point I've raised before about one of the roles of the (for want of a better phrase) 'new media'.
The various UK Outdoors Bloggers that attended reported on the event on the day, or within a few days.
The copy may have been at times opinionated and possibly even amateurish, but it did represent a timely man-in-the-street response to what was on offer.
Andy Howell delayed release of the multi podcast reports until earlier this week, possibly while he waited for the return of his technical support guru? (p.s. AH -is the podzine web page detail right, it seems to talk about Harrogate 2006 fair?). Check here if you want to download free of charge.
But from the mags I've read, a recognisable source used by most of the outdoor walking fraternity - nothing. (Anyone out there in magazine world care to respond?)
As I've said before, on-line media is complimentary to established publishing methodology.
But hey sometimes we bloggers do have a definite edge.
Labels: TGO Magazine, Trail Magazine, UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
All site material © John Hee - ask before you snatch
Lighthiker made an interesting point, which I've heard before, and would mostly agree with. But I think there's more to it than at first glance:
"People have the idea that the Internet is "free" and wouldn't pay for a subscription of a website the same price they pay for the printed magazine. And to some extent I also need to blame bloggers like myself. I post about gear. I make no money out of it and people can read it for free. So if they find the info they want let's say about the latest tents on my blog or others why buying a printed magazine? The only thing that can make a difference would be big in-depth tests and some kind of premium (and I mean premium) content which differs them from what is available for free online. ................ Not many advertisers would move online as their ad will be easier overlooked/clicked away and magazines can't charge them the same rates for online advertising compared to the printed version.Things might change over time when the Internet becomes so cheap and accessible that everybody can use it all the time at every place and the reading habits change also. It will come but probably is 5-10 years from now"
I'd especially agree on the "Internet= Free" model. Would Podcast Bob's excellent output have the same appeal if the podcasts were chargeable? An issue I know Bob continues to tussle with.
For these sort of things I always look to the prime example of supply and demand in action. One of the oldest commercial concerns in the communication medias. It was straight in there as soon as the pictures and the written word started to be used for mass communication.
It is of course the Sex Industry.
Whatever your personal feelings about the product for sale their providers work in one of the strongest surviving markets. And one of the most cut throat and pressured. It is one that's continued to survive despite the attempts of law, social disapproval and religious stricture. Sex sells, as advertisers spend so many dreary millions of $$$$ trying hard to avoid telling us (subtle ads; trick story lines; subliminal messages etc)
But as an industry they are very early adopters in communication and retail environments.
And much as Playboy print magazine of the 50s eventually became a household name, a designer label, and a mult media industry, the modern day spawn of the porn sites were on the net early, and have tried most of the tricks in the book to make websites pay. Even inventing a few new ones along the way, some legitimate, some particularly odious.
Ditto digital TV/view on demand etc - a marketplace in which the big corporations are still very much feeling their way at present.
BTW I'm not suggesting that we should try to make too close a comparison between the outdoor industry here!
But consider some key elements from that sphere.........
- The way in which the print format has adopted certain facets of the digital media, whilst still retaining some of the traditional format, for non adopters, but with a revised demand model and pricing structure.
- The adoption of real time information feeds e.g. webcam
- Interaction with the demand points i.e. Joe Public via a variety of alternatives (e.g. mobile phones)
- Free site content as a loss leader to a subscription model
- Ease of use
- E-tail spin-off business targeting a High Street audience, without the legislative issues or premise overhead. Or the social disapproval.
I'm no expert in this area- no honestly! But any one who has experienced the Internet for more than a simple usage quickly finds it difficult to avoid a variety of content delivery all trying their independent methods of making that elusive buck. The sex/porn industry, despite its lack of general social acceptability (in fact possibly because of that?) has been by far the one with the most widespread impact globally across the web. And one of the biggest money takers I suspect.
As I said earlier. Watch the model, not the product. Some sales will always be easier. Some models less complex.
But learn from the successful and adapt to your own concern.
"It will come but probably is 5-10 years from now"
I'd say that's already here for some retailers. The question is whether established product providers adopt, adapt, or maybe even just avoid.
Labels: blog media, TGO Magazine, Trail Magazine
Timeless Flight. Have Outdoor Magazines met their nadir?
An unexpected delay on my flight back during a business trip earlier today gave me the dubious opportunity to sit in Liverpool Airport reading the September copy of Trail magazine.
Dubious?
Well with rather too many long hours to while away there was a temptation to read and reread the magazine sat in my lap. Or even to critically assess the content, presentation and format. Which is a little unfair on my part really because Trail Magazine is honestly not that sort of reading material. It never pretends to be a 'work of art' for critical analysis, but a monthly outdoor mag ("The UK's biggest selling hill-walking magazine") to provide information whilst remaining entertaining.
And as I sit here tip-tip-tapping into my faithful Psion 5, the flight has just been called (finally), so I'd better make this a very quick round-up, and clean it up back at home (which I'm now doing)
I'd have to say that Trail is not only a little light on content, but is starting to lay itself open to the accusation of being noticeably dated with some articles. For instance - a couple of references to Steve Perry's charity trip (aborted prematurely at the start of last week), a circular route over Caldbeck Fells the pictures showing a frozen landscape (so how long ago was that trip then?)
I do appreciate the unavoidable delay between putting the issue to bed, and distributing the printed article to the retailer. But how long is the delay, and does it remain acceptable these days? After all newspapers appear each morning based on the previous day's happenings.
I assume the advantage of delayed release for magazines is more financially motivated, but how long are we talking here?
But I digress. Back to the plot JH.
I'd forgive the Perry ref as just being one of those timing things, but in general the relevancy if some articles is becoming an issue these days with 3-4 month article lead times appearing quite common. And news? Well it isn't really. As Perry's mishap unintentionally proved.
I'm sure if I looked a little closer I'd discover this is not an issue limited just to Trail, or even the Outdoor magazine sector. Why as a reading public are we paying highish prices (Trail-£3.50) for something that is not necessarily a reflection of the season and outdoor experiences we ourselves are having?
Or to put it another way. Why on the 3rd day of August am I reading a magazine marked September, but based on articles compiled, at my guess, sometime in March/April? A six month gap?
I repeat this is not aimed at Trail magazine per se. That esteemed publishing team continue to attract a strong readership so are obviously meeting a demand from numerous readers. But there comes a point when the accumulation of the cost for three or four months mags may be better spent on (say) a reference/route guide to Scotland in a book form. And that at least would be something I'd keep and use later. As opposed to stockpiling old mags for years, and finally throwing them away finding no-one else to take them on. That was a moment of satori, and a weight off the attic woodwork, when I realised I'd never referred to one back issue in all the time I'd kept them. Not once.
Well that may say more about me, or what I expect these days from the publishing industry.
Even the on-line version of TGO took a couple of days to post about Steve Perry, although I suspect they were waiting for comment from Steve himself.
Or perhaps I'm becoming more demanding as an increasing amount of news and reviews are via websites, outdoor forums, and yes you've guess it - Blogs. All immediate medias. Quality and veracity of course varying tremendously. But a cross section of views and feedback offers me much more of a consensus view. And usually some come back to the individuals concerned.
But mostly I expect to read far more critical and detailed reviews, based on real life use, on the net. There's no advertiser's to be wary of (and no matter how independent the mag that is always a consideration to some extent. It's only human nature after all) There are expectations to this of course - Judy Armstrong/Chris Townsend being very good at calling a spade a spade where it counts.
But it does look like the outdoor magazine is these days becoming more of a......?
Well to be honest I'm not too sure what they are at the moment. And where they fit into the future of media/audience communication.
But at the moment I can't help but feel that something is slipping away from some sectors of the magazine industry.
Once I read the essential monthly copy for information. For new ideas. For education. Now I buy as something to while away a quick twenty or thirty minute journey. Something lightweight.
And before someone points out my previous posts, all based on regular purchase of said items .... the reason I continue to buy Trail and TGO? (subscription just lapsed BTW) Part relevancy to the interests I have on this blog site and part optimism that things will improve.
Occasionally I uncover a gem. Sometimes an article is relevant to my needs. But mostly I end up dissatisfied. A feeling that there has to be more. And as any retailer understands. If you fail to satisfy the punter properly, forget any return trade.
So finally an appeal. Can anyone in any part of the press/print industry throw some light on this at all? (Whether privately or publicly)
I'd even be interested in meeting/visiting any of the mags/editorial teams in an effort to better understand the realities at first hand.
This ones bugging me. I can feel a chill wind blowing and I'd like to see which bugger has left the privy door open.Or is it the new wave blowing on by?
Labels: blog media, TGO Magazine, Trail Magazine
Tuesday, July 10
August Trail items
A couple of quick highlights after just finishing August's copy of Trail Magazine.
Again loads of content, but it tends to dissipate when looking for real detail , or perhaps that's just me expecting too much insight from what is a general outdoor readership mag after all.
An interesting wildcamping article, a little spoilt by 3 up in a tent. I could see the idea behind the article to persuade more women to enjoy the experience, but not the ideal way to be introduced to the concept of "carry light, travel far"
.......first get your great big heavy three (wo)man tent ..............you get the idea.
But to the things that caught my eye:
There's a link to courses run by the Institute of Public Rights of Way, to help manage rights of way issues. I adopted several local footpaths myself many years ago, the premise being walk them regularly to keep legal access rights fresh, and report back on obstructions. I also kept the way marking up, a constant challenge where path and housing estates converge.
On the whole the experience has been positive, although the approach of individual councils tends to vary dependant on their attitude, the location, and more importantly their available budget.
Yet another good reason for some local walking though.
Secondly a quick heads up ..........
If you happen to be planning a camp outdoors 23 July then look to the night sky when the Perseids meteor shower starts, for about a month. Peak time is supposed to be the 12th August, when I know one group of bloggers in particular will hopefully be away from all light pollution, looking to the sky.
One for the diary. Let's hope the weather accommodates accordingly.Labels: Trail Magazine
Sunday, July 1
Trail Challenge over & Keswick's George Fisher sold
It's interesting how one thing can lead to another, and another, and ... etc etc
I was checking the progress of the Trail Magazine Academy trio. Sarah writes: "The Trail thing is now officially over, and looking at the write up of the last expedition in the magazine, I’m quite glad I didn’t go. Looks like they walked a long way carrying a lot of kit and had a very uncomfortable night. I love the outdoors, and I enjoy camping, but I don’t believe in making things even more difficult for yourself! It’s a shame it’s over, and I appear to be the one who got the least out of it, but such is life"
Whatever Trail's intentions on the exercise it looks like some of the backpacking ethos & practice possibly didn't rub off in quite the way it was intended.
And as for the other two guinea pigs. Emma had a proposal of marriage, and Sian found out she was nearly pregnant, for a short while. It all seems to happen on these Trail programs doesn't it!
But they all seemed to have enjoyed the experience, and thanks to Sarah's blog for the tip off concerning the new Trail Gear Blog, which coincidentally appeared to to have hit the web around the time the repackaged TGO Forum/Blogsite was rolled out. Is that's what's called a spoiler in the press trade? Surely not.
As I was checking the links for this post I spotted this piece of recent news concerning the takeover of the highly regarded George Fisher shop in Keswick by the Tiso Group. Trail's news report is here.
Normally this sort of news would have appeared on the outdoor forums, but not a sniff that I've spotted so far. And nothing on GF's own site either (So does that count as a blogger scoop WD?)
As to the news, one commenter has positive comments on Tiso in Edinburgh(Tiso is largely unknown south of the Scottish border) so hopefully GF's excellent service and stocking policy will continue into the future.
And of course the web cam.Labels: blog media, Gear, Lake District, TGO Magazine, Trail Magazine
Wednesday, June 6
TGO website
The new TGO site is now up and running, and quickly filling with high quality content. Highly recommended
(Damn - that's more stuff to read on-line)
The main question - how will the TGO on-line version differ in content from the TGO print version?
I'm looking forward an interesting few months as I was aware Cameron had a 'pack full of ideas, and it's good to see the initiative starting to come into flower. Best of luck.
It'll be interesting to see how Trail/Country Walking respond to this initiative from Cameron's team, bearing in mind the content of some of the recent topics covered. Only coincidental I'm sure.Labels: TGO Magazine, Trail Magazine
Wednesday, May 2
Trail Post - Interesting Response
Hhhmmmm. Interesting.
Visits to this site more than doubled following a couple of comments I left on OM concerning the value of Trail's piece on 'Lightweight Lakes'. All looking at this post.
None felt the need to leave a comment. But the interest level leads me to suspect I may have hit a sympathetic nerve.
Discuss?Labels: blog media, Trail Magazine
Monday, April 30
Trail Magazine - June
Another month, another well laid trap to fall into. Again.
Curses! Clever these publishers. I should have learnt my lesson by now.
Lots of lovely articles to dig into, but once again a sense of deflation. Why is that? A quick glance at the articles:
- Good bit on the new via ferrata route at Honister Hause slate mine
- 'Get into wildcamping' Nice try, but bullet points on a single page - give me a break!
- Philosophy of Lightweight. Interesting, but more content, less double page pictures
- Essential equipment - Ha ha. Got me going there. I was half way through the article before I read 'an adequate supply of water is essential but insufficient' What on earth? Oh right - a sponsored article by the Sugar Bureau aka Designer drinks good; Water bad. Naughty. Very naughty
- Sub 2k tents - reasonable article.
- How to buy a soft shell - with the lead-in stating ".....which is why you need one" Oh. And there's me without one. Heresy. A quick scour of the article and I finally found the answer. In small text. On a green background. Still got no real idea why I 'must' have one. A pity it came across as an order. I don't react well to that sort of approach. Sloppy journalism on an otherwise good article though.
- Eiger history- great bit, this is more like it.
And so on..........
One thought as I dropped it in the recycle rack (after only 1/2 hour reading this month) was a topic that seem to mirror some of my older blog posts (e.g. Walks/Public transport)
Now I've got no monopoly on that idea. After all it's been around for years, but I do recall trying to explain how easily it can be achieved and why. A bit strange to see the number of routes labelled as Public Transport. When did that first start popping up?
This months cover price£3.50; Or £7.00 an hour at my interest level.
And you have this blog all for free. Peachy
Labels: Trail Magazine
Thursday, April 5
TGO, Trail (and the Outdoor Show?)
I'd just finished off May's issue of Trail magazine when postie dropped my copy of TGO onto the doormat. So once more a comparative response due to an accident of timing.
I'd been tempted into buying Trail for the second month in a row by the cover's teaser headings, and a very quick thumb thru before purchase.
It looked good in the shop. But once more I found that I rapidly skipped through it, the chopped-up page layout making it more of a 'dip-into' style, rather than any sort of absorbing read.
But again I felt left with an unsatisfied feeling, and no real reaction to most of the articles, beyond what I've already said about sponsored articles.
The Brecon Beacons routes stuff was ok; Oh and I'll definitely cross a visit to the Dove Crag's Priest's Hole Cave off my list for several months. It wasn't the biggest secret in the Lakeland walks world, but it will attract too much attention now its been included as just another 'great night away'. This Easter weekend should be fun - lol (Just grateful that the other spots I know were overlooked. But perhaps that's why I found them in the first place and continue to use them. Not intended as elitism on my part, more my more solitary enjoyment of the fellside)
TGO was a bit more thought provoking.
For once Jim Perrin's stuff grabbed me, and I wanted to read to the end of his article.
Chris Townsend (as always) delivered the goods, with a thoughtful look at lightweight clothing systems. His point, as I took it, being more about approach to use and mix of clothing, rather than a formulaic Gear A plus Gear B plus Gear C = result. I've already used this mindset successfully last year, shaving pounds of my pack weight by losing the fleece with adding a windproof (Montane Lite-Speed - a real find)
So with both mags put aside, I suddenly realised - not one report about the NEC Outdoors Show in mid April?
Plenty of press beforehand, but no post show round-up? Perhaps the deadline dates for May's copy was too early for the show report, but it leads me to a point I've raised before about one of the roles of the (for want of a better phrase) 'new media'.
The various UK Outdoors Bloggers that attended reported on the event on the day, or within a few days.
The copy may have been at times opinionated and possibly even amateurish, but it did represent a timely man-in-the-street response to what was on offer.
Andy Howell delayed release of the multi podcast reports until earlier this week, possibly while he waited for the return of his technical support guru? (p.s. AH -is the podzine web page detail right, it seems to talk about Harrogate 2006 fair?). Check here if you want to download free of charge.
But from the mags I've read, a recognisable source used by most of the outdoor walking fraternity - nothing. (Anyone out there in magazine world care to respond?)
As I've said before, on-line media is complimentary to established publishing methodology.
But hey sometimes we bloggers do have a definite edge.
Labels: TGO Magazine, Trail Magazine, UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
All site material © John Hee - ask before you snatch
Dubious?
Well with rather too many long hours to while away there was a temptation to read and reread the magazine sat in my lap. Or even to critically assess the content, presentation and format. Which is a little unfair on my part really because Trail Magazine is honestly not that sort of reading material. It never pretends to be a 'work of art' for critical analysis, but a monthly outdoor mag ("The UK's biggest selling hill-walking magazine") to provide information whilst remaining entertaining.
And as I sit here tip-tip-tapping into my faithful Psion 5, the flight has just been called (finally), so I'd better make this a very quick round-up, and clean it up back at home (which I'm now doing)
I'd have to say that Trail is not only a little light on content, but is starting to lay itself open to the accusation of being noticeably dated with some articles. For instance - a couple of references to Steve Perry's charity trip (aborted prematurely at the start of last week), a circular route over Caldbeck Fells the pictures showing a frozen landscape (so how long ago was that trip then?)
I do appreciate the unavoidable delay between putting the issue to bed, and distributing the printed article to the retailer. But how long is the delay, and does it remain acceptable these days? After all newspapers appear each morning based on the previous day's happenings.
I assume the advantage of delayed release for magazines is more financially motivated, but how long are we talking here?
But I digress. Back to the plot JH.
I'd forgive the Perry ref as just being one of those timing things, but in general the relevancy if some articles is becoming an issue these days with 3-4 month article lead times appearing quite common. And news? Well it isn't really. As Perry's mishap unintentionally proved.
I'm sure if I looked a little closer I'd discover this is not an issue limited just to Trail, or even the Outdoor magazine sector. Why as a reading public are we paying highish prices (Trail-£3.50) for something that is not necessarily a reflection of the season and outdoor experiences we ourselves are having?
Or to put it another way. Why on the 3rd day of August am I reading a magazine marked September, but based on articles compiled, at my guess, sometime in March/April? A six month gap?
I repeat this is not aimed at Trail magazine per se. That esteemed publishing team continue to attract a strong readership so are obviously meeting a demand from numerous readers. But there comes a point when the accumulation of the cost for three or four months mags may be better spent on (say) a reference/route guide to Scotland in a book form. And that at least would be something I'd keep and use later. As opposed to stockpiling old mags for years, and finally throwing them away finding no-one else to take them on. That was a moment of satori, and a weight off the attic woodwork, when I realised I'd never referred to one back issue in all the time I'd kept them. Not once.
Well that may say more about me, or what I expect these days from the publishing industry.
Even the on-line version of TGO took a couple of days to post about Steve Perry, although I suspect they were waiting for comment from Steve himself.
Or perhaps I'm becoming more demanding as an increasing amount of news and reviews are via websites, outdoor forums, and yes you've guess it - Blogs. All immediate medias. Quality and veracity of course varying tremendously. But a cross section of views and feedback offers me much more of a consensus view. And usually some come back to the individuals concerned.
But mostly I expect to read far more critical and detailed reviews, based on real life use, on the net. There's no advertiser's to be wary of (and no matter how independent the mag that is always a consideration to some extent. It's only human nature after all) There are expectations to this of course - Judy Armstrong/Chris Townsend being very good at calling a spade a spade where it counts.
But it does look like the outdoor magazine is these days becoming more of a......?
Well to be honest I'm not too sure what they are at the moment. And where they fit into the future of media/audience communication.
But at the moment I can't help but feel that something is slipping away from some sectors of the magazine industry.
Once I read the essential monthly copy for information. For new ideas. For education. Now I buy as something to while away a quick twenty or thirty minute journey. Something lightweight.
And before someone points out my previous posts, all based on regular purchase of said items .... the reason I continue to buy Trail and TGO? (subscription just lapsed BTW) Part relevancy to the interests I have on this blog site and part optimism that things will improve.
Occasionally I uncover a gem. Sometimes an article is relevant to my needs. But mostly I end up dissatisfied. A feeling that there has to be more. And as any retailer understands. If you fail to satisfy the punter properly, forget any return trade.
So finally an appeal. Can anyone in any part of the press/print industry throw some light on this at all? (Whether privately or publicly)
I'd even be interested in meeting/visiting any of the mags/editorial teams in an effort to better understand the realities at first hand.
This ones bugging me. I can feel a chill wind blowing and I'd like to see which bugger has left the privy door open.Or is it the new wave blowing on by?
Labels: blog media, TGO Magazine, Trail Magazine
August Trail items
A couple of quick highlights after just finishing August's copy of Trail Magazine.
Again loads of content, but it tends to dissipate when looking for real detail , or perhaps that's just me expecting too much insight from what is a general outdoor readership mag after all.
An interesting wildcamping article, a little spoilt by 3 up in a tent. I could see the idea behind the article to persuade more women to enjoy the experience, but not the ideal way to be introduced to the concept of "carry light, travel far"
.......first get your great big heavy three (wo)man tent ..............you get the idea.
But to the things that caught my eye:
There's a link to courses run by the Institute of Public Rights of Way, to help manage rights of way issues. I adopted several local footpaths myself many years ago, the premise being walk them regularly to keep legal access rights fresh, and report back on obstructions. I also kept the way marking up, a constant challenge where path and housing estates converge.
On the whole the experience has been positive, although the approach of individual councils tends to vary dependant on their attitude, the location, and more importantly their available budget.
Yet another good reason for some local walking though.
Secondly a quick heads up ..........
If you happen to be planning a camp outdoors 23 July then look to the night sky when the Perseids meteor shower starts, for about a month. Peak time is supposed to be the 12th August, when I know one group of bloggers in particular will hopefully be away from all light pollution, looking to the sky.
One for the diary. Let's hope the weather accommodates accordingly.Labels: Trail Magazine
Sunday, July 1
Trail Challenge over & Keswick's George Fisher sold
It's interesting how one thing can lead to another, and another, and ... etc etc
I was checking the progress of the Trail Magazine Academy trio. Sarah writes: "The Trail thing is now officially over, and looking at the write up of the last expedition in the magazine, I’m quite glad I didn’t go. Looks like they walked a long way carrying a lot of kit and had a very uncomfortable night. I love the outdoors, and I enjoy camping, but I don’t believe in making things even more difficult for yourself! It’s a shame it’s over, and I appear to be the one who got the least out of it, but such is life"
Whatever Trail's intentions on the exercise it looks like some of the backpacking ethos & practice possibly didn't rub off in quite the way it was intended.
And as for the other two guinea pigs. Emma had a proposal of marriage, and Sian found out she was nearly pregnant, for a short while. It all seems to happen on these Trail programs doesn't it!
But they all seemed to have enjoyed the experience, and thanks to Sarah's blog for the tip off concerning the new Trail Gear Blog, which coincidentally appeared to to have hit the web around the time the repackaged TGO Forum/Blogsite was rolled out. Is that's what's called a spoiler in the press trade? Surely not.
As I was checking the links for this post I spotted this piece of recent news concerning the takeover of the highly regarded George Fisher shop in Keswick by the Tiso Group. Trail's news report is here.
Normally this sort of news would have appeared on the outdoor forums, but not a sniff that I've spotted so far. And nothing on GF's own site either (So does that count as a blogger scoop WD?)
As to the news, one commenter has positive comments on Tiso in Edinburgh(Tiso is largely unknown south of the Scottish border) so hopefully GF's excellent service and stocking policy will continue into the future.
And of course the web cam.Labels: blog media, Gear, Lake District, TGO Magazine, Trail Magazine
Wednesday, June 6
TGO website
The new TGO site is now up and running, and quickly filling with high quality content. Highly recommended
(Damn - that's more stuff to read on-line)
The main question - how will the TGO on-line version differ in content from the TGO print version?
I'm looking forward an interesting few months as I was aware Cameron had a 'pack full of ideas, and it's good to see the initiative starting to come into flower. Best of luck.
It'll be interesting to see how Trail/Country Walking respond to this initiative from Cameron's team, bearing in mind the content of some of the recent topics covered. Only coincidental I'm sure.Labels: TGO Magazine, Trail Magazine
Wednesday, May 2
Trail Post - Interesting Response
Hhhmmmm. Interesting.
Visits to this site more than doubled following a couple of comments I left on OM concerning the value of Trail's piece on 'Lightweight Lakes'. All looking at this post.
None felt the need to leave a comment. But the interest level leads me to suspect I may have hit a sympathetic nerve.
Discuss?Labels: blog media, Trail Magazine
Monday, April 30
Trail Magazine - June
Another month, another well laid trap to fall into. Again.
Curses! Clever these publishers. I should have learnt my lesson by now.
Lots of lovely articles to dig into, but once again a sense of deflation. Why is that? A quick glance at the articles:
- Good bit on the new via ferrata route at Honister Hause slate mine
- 'Get into wildcamping' Nice try, but bullet points on a single page - give me a break!
- Philosophy of Lightweight. Interesting, but more content, less double page pictures
- Essential equipment - Ha ha. Got me going there. I was half way through the article before I read 'an adequate supply of water is essential but insufficient' What on earth? Oh right - a sponsored article by the Sugar Bureau aka Designer drinks good; Water bad. Naughty. Very naughty
- Sub 2k tents - reasonable article.
- How to buy a soft shell - with the lead-in stating ".....which is why you need one" Oh. And there's me without one. Heresy. A quick scour of the article and I finally found the answer. In small text. On a green background. Still got no real idea why I 'must' have one. A pity it came across as an order. I don't react well to that sort of approach. Sloppy journalism on an otherwise good article though.
- Eiger history- great bit, this is more like it.
And so on..........
One thought as I dropped it in the recycle rack (after only 1/2 hour reading this month) was a topic that seem to mirror some of my older blog posts (e.g. Walks/Public transport)
Now I've got no monopoly on that idea. After all it's been around for years, but I do recall trying to explain how easily it can be achieved and why. A bit strange to see the number of routes labelled as Public Transport. When did that first start popping up?
This months cover price£3.50; Or £7.00 an hour at my interest level.
And you have this blog all for free. Peachy
Labels: Trail Magazine
Thursday, April 5
TGO, Trail (and the Outdoor Show?)
I'd just finished off May's issue of Trail magazine when postie dropped my copy of TGO onto the doormat. So once more a comparative response due to an accident of timing.
I'd been tempted into buying Trail for the second month in a row by the cover's teaser headings, and a very quick thumb thru before purchase.
It looked good in the shop. But once more I found that I rapidly skipped through it, the chopped-up page layout making it more of a 'dip-into' style, rather than any sort of absorbing read.
But again I felt left with an unsatisfied feeling, and no real reaction to most of the articles, beyond what I've already said about sponsored articles.
The Brecon Beacons routes stuff was ok; Oh and I'll definitely cross a visit to the Dove Crag's Priest's Hole Cave off my list for several months. It wasn't the biggest secret in the Lakeland walks world, but it will attract too much attention now its been included as just another 'great night away'. This Easter weekend should be fun - lol (Just grateful that the other spots I know were overlooked. But perhaps that's why I found them in the first place and continue to use them. Not intended as elitism on my part, more my more solitary enjoyment of the fellside)
TGO was a bit more thought provoking.
For once Jim Perrin's stuff grabbed me, and I wanted to read to the end of his article.
Chris Townsend (as always) delivered the goods, with a thoughtful look at lightweight clothing systems. His point, as I took it, being more about approach to use and mix of clothing, rather than a formulaic Gear A plus Gear B plus Gear C = result. I've already used this mindset successfully last year, shaving pounds of my pack weight by losing the fleece with adding a windproof (Montane Lite-Speed - a real find)
So with both mags put aside, I suddenly realised - not one report about the NEC Outdoors Show in mid April?
Plenty of press beforehand, but no post show round-up? Perhaps the deadline dates for May's copy was too early for the show report, but it leads me to a point I've raised before about one of the roles of the (for want of a better phrase) 'new media'.
The various UK Outdoors Bloggers that attended reported on the event on the day, or within a few days.
The copy may have been at times opinionated and possibly even amateurish, but it did represent a timely man-in-the-street response to what was on offer.
Andy Howell delayed release of the multi podcast reports until earlier this week, possibly while he waited for the return of his technical support guru? (p.s. AH -is the podzine web page detail right, it seems to talk about Harrogate 2006 fair?). Check here if you want to download free of charge.
But from the mags I've read, a recognisable source used by most of the outdoor walking fraternity - nothing. (Anyone out there in magazine world care to respond?)
As I've said before, on-line media is complimentary to established publishing methodology.
But hey sometimes we bloggers do have a definite edge.
Labels: TGO Magazine, Trail Magazine, UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
All site material © John Hee - ask before you snatch
Again loads of content, but it tends to dissipate when looking for real detail , or perhaps that's just me expecting too much insight from what is a general outdoor readership mag after all.
An interesting wildcamping article, a little spoilt by 3 up in a tent. I could see the idea behind the article to persuade more women to enjoy the experience, but not the ideal way to be introduced to the concept of "carry light, travel far"
.......first get your great big heavy three (wo)man tent ..............you get the idea.
But to the things that caught my eye:
There's a link to courses run by the Institute of Public Rights of Way, to help manage rights of way issues. I adopted several local footpaths myself many years ago, the premise being walk them regularly to keep legal access rights fresh, and report back on obstructions. I also kept the way marking up, a constant challenge where path and housing estates converge.
On the whole the experience has been positive, although the approach of individual councils tends to vary dependant on their attitude, the location, and more importantly their available budget.
Yet another good reason for some local walking though.
Secondly a quick heads up ..........
If you happen to be planning a camp outdoors 23 July then look to the night sky when the Perseids meteor shower starts, for about a month. Peak time is supposed to be the 12th August, when I know one group of bloggers in particular will hopefully be away from all light pollution, looking to the sky.
One for the diary. Let's hope the weather accommodates accordingly.
Labels: Trail Magazine
Trail Challenge over & Keswick's George Fisher sold
It's interesting how one thing can lead to another, and another, and ... etc etc
I was checking the progress of the Trail Magazine Academy trio. Sarah writes: "The Trail thing is now officially over, and looking at the write up of the last expedition in the magazine, I’m quite glad I didn’t go. Looks like they walked a long way carrying a lot of kit and had a very uncomfortable night. I love the outdoors, and I enjoy camping, but I don’t believe in making things even more difficult for yourself! It’s a shame it’s over, and I appear to be the one who got the least out of it, but such is life"
Whatever Trail's intentions on the exercise it looks like some of the backpacking ethos & practice possibly didn't rub off in quite the way it was intended.
And as for the other two guinea pigs. Emma had a proposal of marriage, and Sian found out she was nearly pregnant, for a short while. It all seems to happen on these Trail programs doesn't it!
But they all seemed to have enjoyed the experience, and thanks to Sarah's blog for the tip off concerning the new Trail Gear Blog, which coincidentally appeared to to have hit the web around the time the repackaged TGO Forum/Blogsite was rolled out. Is that's what's called a spoiler in the press trade? Surely not.
As I was checking the links for this post I spotted this piece of recent news concerning the takeover of the highly regarded George Fisher shop in Keswick by the Tiso Group. Trail's news report is here.
Normally this sort of news would have appeared on the outdoor forums, but not a sniff that I've spotted so far. And nothing on GF's own site either (So does that count as a blogger scoop WD?)
As to the news, one commenter has positive comments on Tiso in Edinburgh(Tiso is largely unknown south of the Scottish border) so hopefully GF's excellent service and stocking policy will continue into the future.
And of course the web cam.Labels: blog media, Gear, Lake District, TGO Magazine, Trail Magazine
Wednesday, June 6
TGO website
The new TGO site is now up and running, and quickly filling with high quality content. Highly recommended
(Damn - that's more stuff to read on-line)
The main question - how will the TGO on-line version differ in content from the TGO print version?
I'm looking forward an interesting few months as I was aware Cameron had a 'pack full of ideas, and it's good to see the initiative starting to come into flower. Best of luck.
It'll be interesting to see how Trail/Country Walking respond to this initiative from Cameron's team, bearing in mind the content of some of the recent topics covered. Only coincidental I'm sure.Labels: TGO Magazine, Trail Magazine
Wednesday, May 2
Trail Post - Interesting Response
Hhhmmmm. Interesting.
Visits to this site more than doubled following a couple of comments I left on OM concerning the value of Trail's piece on 'Lightweight Lakes'. All looking at this post.
None felt the need to leave a comment. But the interest level leads me to suspect I may have hit a sympathetic nerve.
Discuss?Labels: blog media, Trail Magazine
Monday, April 30
Trail Magazine - June
Another month, another well laid trap to fall into. Again.
Curses! Clever these publishers. I should have learnt my lesson by now.
Lots of lovely articles to dig into, but once again a sense of deflation. Why is that? A quick glance at the articles:
- Good bit on the new via ferrata route at Honister Hause slate mine
- 'Get into wildcamping' Nice try, but bullet points on a single page - give me a break!
- Philosophy of Lightweight. Interesting, but more content, less double page pictures
- Essential equipment - Ha ha. Got me going there. I was half way through the article before I read 'an adequate supply of water is essential but insufficient' What on earth? Oh right - a sponsored article by the Sugar Bureau aka Designer drinks good; Water bad. Naughty. Very naughty
- Sub 2k tents - reasonable article.
- How to buy a soft shell - with the lead-in stating ".....which is why you need one" Oh. And there's me without one. Heresy. A quick scour of the article and I finally found the answer. In small text. On a green background. Still got no real idea why I 'must' have one. A pity it came across as an order. I don't react well to that sort of approach. Sloppy journalism on an otherwise good article though.
- Eiger history- great bit, this is more like it.
And so on..........
One thought as I dropped it in the recycle rack (after only 1/2 hour reading this month) was a topic that seem to mirror some of my older blog posts (e.g. Walks/Public transport)
Now I've got no monopoly on that idea. After all it's been around for years, but I do recall trying to explain how easily it can be achieved and why. A bit strange to see the number of routes labelled as Public Transport. When did that first start popping up?
This months cover price£3.50; Or £7.00 an hour at my interest level.
And you have this blog all for free. Peachy
Labels: Trail Magazine
Thursday, April 5
TGO, Trail (and the Outdoor Show?)
I'd just finished off May's issue of Trail magazine when postie dropped my copy of TGO onto the doormat. So once more a comparative response due to an accident of timing.
I'd been tempted into buying Trail for the second month in a row by the cover's teaser headings, and a very quick thumb thru before purchase.
It looked good in the shop. But once more I found that I rapidly skipped through it, the chopped-up page layout making it more of a 'dip-into' style, rather than any sort of absorbing read.
But again I felt left with an unsatisfied feeling, and no real reaction to most of the articles, beyond what I've already said about sponsored articles.
The Brecon Beacons routes stuff was ok; Oh and I'll definitely cross a visit to the Dove Crag's Priest's Hole Cave off my list for several months. It wasn't the biggest secret in the Lakeland walks world, but it will attract too much attention now its been included as just another 'great night away'. This Easter weekend should be fun - lol (Just grateful that the other spots I know were overlooked. But perhaps that's why I found them in the first place and continue to use them. Not intended as elitism on my part, more my more solitary enjoyment of the fellside)
TGO was a bit more thought provoking.
For once Jim Perrin's stuff grabbed me, and I wanted to read to the end of his article.
Chris Townsend (as always) delivered the goods, with a thoughtful look at lightweight clothing systems. His point, as I took it, being more about approach to use and mix of clothing, rather than a formulaic Gear A plus Gear B plus Gear C = result. I've already used this mindset successfully last year, shaving pounds of my pack weight by losing the fleece with adding a windproof (Montane Lite-Speed - a real find)
So with both mags put aside, I suddenly realised - not one report about the NEC Outdoors Show in mid April?
Plenty of press beforehand, but no post show round-up? Perhaps the deadline dates for May's copy was too early for the show report, but it leads me to a point I've raised before about one of the roles of the (for want of a better phrase) 'new media'.
The various UK Outdoors Bloggers that attended reported on the event on the day, or within a few days.
The copy may have been at times opinionated and possibly even amateurish, but it did represent a timely man-in-the-street response to what was on offer.
Andy Howell delayed release of the multi podcast reports until earlier this week, possibly while he waited for the return of his technical support guru? (p.s. AH -is the podzine web page detail right, it seems to talk about Harrogate 2006 fair?). Check here if you want to download free of charge.
But from the mags I've read, a recognisable source used by most of the outdoor walking fraternity - nothing. (Anyone out there in magazine world care to respond?)
As I've said before, on-line media is complimentary to established publishing methodology.
But hey sometimes we bloggers do have a definite edge.
Labels: TGO Magazine, Trail Magazine, UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
All site material © John Hee - ask before you snatch
I was checking the progress of the Trail Magazine Academy trio. Sarah writes: "The Trail thing is now officially over, and looking at the write up of the last expedition in the magazine, I’m quite glad I didn’t go. Looks like they walked a long way carrying a lot of kit and had a very uncomfortable night. I love the outdoors, and I enjoy camping, but I don’t believe in making things even more difficult for yourself! It’s a shame it’s over, and I appear to be the one who got the least out of it, but such is life"
Whatever Trail's intentions on the exercise it looks like some of the backpacking ethos & practice possibly didn't rub off in quite the way it was intended.
And as for the other two guinea pigs. Emma had a proposal of marriage, and Sian found out she was nearly pregnant, for a short while. It all seems to happen on these Trail programs doesn't it!
But they all seemed to have enjoyed the experience, and thanks to Sarah's blog for the tip off concerning the new Trail Gear Blog, which coincidentally appeared to to have hit the web around the time the repackaged TGO Forum/Blogsite was rolled out. Is that's what's called a spoiler in the press trade? Surely not.
As I was checking the links for this post I spotted this piece of recent news concerning the takeover of the highly regarded George Fisher shop in Keswick by the Tiso Group. Trail's news report is here.
Normally this sort of news would have appeared on the outdoor forums, but not a sniff that I've spotted so far. And nothing on GF's own site either (So does that count as a blogger scoop WD?)
As to the news, one commenter has positive comments on Tiso in Edinburgh(Tiso is largely unknown south of the Scottish border) so hopefully GF's excellent service and stocking policy will continue into the future.
And of course the web cam.
Labels: blog media, Gear, Lake District, TGO Magazine, Trail Magazine
TGO website
The new TGO site is now up and running, and quickly filling with high quality content. Highly recommended
(Damn - that's more stuff to read on-line)
The main question - how will the TGO on-line version differ in content from the TGO print version?
I'm looking forward an interesting few months as I was aware Cameron had a 'pack full of ideas, and it's good to see the initiative starting to come into flower. Best of luck.
It'll be interesting to see how Trail/Country Walking respond to this initiative from Cameron's team, bearing in mind the content of some of the recent topics covered. Only coincidental I'm sure.Labels: TGO Magazine, Trail Magazine
Wednesday, May 2
Trail Post - Interesting Response
Hhhmmmm. Interesting.
Visits to this site more than doubled following a couple of comments I left on OM concerning the value of Trail's piece on 'Lightweight Lakes'. All looking at this post.
None felt the need to leave a comment. But the interest level leads me to suspect I may have hit a sympathetic nerve.
Discuss?Labels: blog media, Trail Magazine
Monday, April 30
Trail Magazine - June
Another month, another well laid trap to fall into. Again.
Curses! Clever these publishers. I should have learnt my lesson by now.
Lots of lovely articles to dig into, but once again a sense of deflation. Why is that? A quick glance at the articles:
- Good bit on the new via ferrata route at Honister Hause slate mine
- 'Get into wildcamping' Nice try, but bullet points on a single page - give me a break!
- Philosophy of Lightweight. Interesting, but more content, less double page pictures
- Essential equipment - Ha ha. Got me going there. I was half way through the article before I read 'an adequate supply of water is essential but insufficient' What on earth? Oh right - a sponsored article by the Sugar Bureau aka Designer drinks good; Water bad. Naughty. Very naughty
- Sub 2k tents - reasonable article.
- How to buy a soft shell - with the lead-in stating ".....which is why you need one" Oh. And there's me without one. Heresy. A quick scour of the article and I finally found the answer. In small text. On a green background. Still got no real idea why I 'must' have one. A pity it came across as an order. I don't react well to that sort of approach. Sloppy journalism on an otherwise good article though.
- Eiger history- great bit, this is more like it.
And so on..........
One thought as I dropped it in the recycle rack (after only 1/2 hour reading this month) was a topic that seem to mirror some of my older blog posts (e.g. Walks/Public transport)
Now I've got no monopoly on that idea. After all it's been around for years, but I do recall trying to explain how easily it can be achieved and why. A bit strange to see the number of routes labelled as Public Transport. When did that first start popping up?
This months cover price£3.50; Or £7.00 an hour at my interest level.
And you have this blog all for free. Peachy
Labels: Trail Magazine
Thursday, April 5
TGO, Trail (and the Outdoor Show?)
I'd just finished off May's issue of Trail magazine when postie dropped my copy of TGO onto the doormat. So once more a comparative response due to an accident of timing.
I'd been tempted into buying Trail for the second month in a row by the cover's teaser headings, and a very quick thumb thru before purchase.
It looked good in the shop. But once more I found that I rapidly skipped through it, the chopped-up page layout making it more of a 'dip-into' style, rather than any sort of absorbing read.
But again I felt left with an unsatisfied feeling, and no real reaction to most of the articles, beyond what I've already said about sponsored articles.
The Brecon Beacons routes stuff was ok; Oh and I'll definitely cross a visit to the Dove Crag's Priest's Hole Cave off my list for several months. It wasn't the biggest secret in the Lakeland walks world, but it will attract too much attention now its been included as just another 'great night away'. This Easter weekend should be fun - lol (Just grateful that the other spots I know were overlooked. But perhaps that's why I found them in the first place and continue to use them. Not intended as elitism on my part, more my more solitary enjoyment of the fellside)
TGO was a bit more thought provoking.
For once Jim Perrin's stuff grabbed me, and I wanted to read to the end of his article.
Chris Townsend (as always) delivered the goods, with a thoughtful look at lightweight clothing systems. His point, as I took it, being more about approach to use and mix of clothing, rather than a formulaic Gear A plus Gear B plus Gear C = result. I've already used this mindset successfully last year, shaving pounds of my pack weight by losing the fleece with adding a windproof (Montane Lite-Speed - a real find)
So with both mags put aside, I suddenly realised - not one report about the NEC Outdoors Show in mid April?
Plenty of press beforehand, but no post show round-up? Perhaps the deadline dates for May's copy was too early for the show report, but it leads me to a point I've raised before about one of the roles of the (for want of a better phrase) 'new media'.
The various UK Outdoors Bloggers that attended reported on the event on the day, or within a few days.
The copy may have been at times opinionated and possibly even amateurish, but it did represent a timely man-in-the-street response to what was on offer.
Andy Howell delayed release of the multi podcast reports until earlier this week, possibly while he waited for the return of his technical support guru? (p.s. AH -is the podzine web page detail right, it seems to talk about Harrogate 2006 fair?). Check here if you want to download free of charge.
But from the mags I've read, a recognisable source used by most of the outdoor walking fraternity - nothing. (Anyone out there in magazine world care to respond?)
As I've said before, on-line media is complimentary to established publishing methodology.
But hey sometimes we bloggers do have a definite edge.
Labels: TGO Magazine, Trail Magazine, UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
All site material © John Hee - ask before you snatch
(Damn - that's more stuff to read on-line)
The main question - how will the TGO on-line version differ in content from the TGO print version?
I'm looking forward an interesting few months as I was aware Cameron had a 'pack full of ideas, and it's good to see the initiative starting to come into flower. Best of luck.
It'll be interesting to see how Trail/Country Walking respond to this initiative from Cameron's team, bearing in mind the content of some of the recent topics covered. Only coincidental I'm sure.
Labels: TGO Magazine, Trail Magazine
Trail Post - Interesting Response
Hhhmmmm. Interesting.
Visits to this site more than doubled following a couple of comments I left on OM concerning the value of Trail's piece on 'Lightweight Lakes'. All looking at this post.
None felt the need to leave a comment. But the interest level leads me to suspect I may have hit a sympathetic nerve.
Discuss?Labels: blog media, Trail Magazine
Monday, April 30
Trail Magazine - June
Another month, another well laid trap to fall into. Again.
Curses! Clever these publishers. I should have learnt my lesson by now.
Lots of lovely articles to dig into, but once again a sense of deflation. Why is that? A quick glance at the articles:
- Good bit on the new via ferrata route at Honister Hause slate mine
- 'Get into wildcamping' Nice try, but bullet points on a single page - give me a break!
- Philosophy of Lightweight. Interesting, but more content, less double page pictures
- Essential equipment - Ha ha. Got me going there. I was half way through the article before I read 'an adequate supply of water is essential but insufficient' What on earth? Oh right - a sponsored article by the Sugar Bureau aka Designer drinks good; Water bad. Naughty. Very naughty
- Sub 2k tents - reasonable article.
- How to buy a soft shell - with the lead-in stating ".....which is why you need one" Oh. And there's me without one. Heresy. A quick scour of the article and I finally found the answer. In small text. On a green background. Still got no real idea why I 'must' have one. A pity it came across as an order. I don't react well to that sort of approach. Sloppy journalism on an otherwise good article though.
- Eiger history- great bit, this is more like it.
And so on..........
One thought as I dropped it in the recycle rack (after only 1/2 hour reading this month) was a topic that seem to mirror some of my older blog posts (e.g. Walks/Public transport)
Now I've got no monopoly on that idea. After all it's been around for years, but I do recall trying to explain how easily it can be achieved and why. A bit strange to see the number of routes labelled as Public Transport. When did that first start popping up?
This months cover price£3.50; Or £7.00 an hour at my interest level.
And you have this blog all for free. Peachy
Labels: Trail Magazine
Thursday, April 5
TGO, Trail (and the Outdoor Show?)
I'd just finished off May's issue of Trail magazine when postie dropped my copy of TGO onto the doormat. So once more a comparative response due to an accident of timing.
I'd been tempted into buying Trail for the second month in a row by the cover's teaser headings, and a very quick thumb thru before purchase.
It looked good in the shop. But once more I found that I rapidly skipped through it, the chopped-up page layout making it more of a 'dip-into' style, rather than any sort of absorbing read.
But again I felt left with an unsatisfied feeling, and no real reaction to most of the articles, beyond what I've already said about sponsored articles.
The Brecon Beacons routes stuff was ok; Oh and I'll definitely cross a visit to the Dove Crag's Priest's Hole Cave off my list for several months. It wasn't the biggest secret in the Lakeland walks world, but it will attract too much attention now its been included as just another 'great night away'. This Easter weekend should be fun - lol (Just grateful that the other spots I know were overlooked. But perhaps that's why I found them in the first place and continue to use them. Not intended as elitism on my part, more my more solitary enjoyment of the fellside)
TGO was a bit more thought provoking.
For once Jim Perrin's stuff grabbed me, and I wanted to read to the end of his article.
Chris Townsend (as always) delivered the goods, with a thoughtful look at lightweight clothing systems. His point, as I took it, being more about approach to use and mix of clothing, rather than a formulaic Gear A plus Gear B plus Gear C = result. I've already used this mindset successfully last year, shaving pounds of my pack weight by losing the fleece with adding a windproof (Montane Lite-Speed - a real find)
So with both mags put aside, I suddenly realised - not one report about the NEC Outdoors Show in mid April?
Plenty of press beforehand, but no post show round-up? Perhaps the deadline dates for May's copy was too early for the show report, but it leads me to a point I've raised before about one of the roles of the (for want of a better phrase) 'new media'.
The various UK Outdoors Bloggers that attended reported on the event on the day, or within a few days.
The copy may have been at times opinionated and possibly even amateurish, but it did represent a timely man-in-the-street response to what was on offer.
Andy Howell delayed release of the multi podcast reports until earlier this week, possibly while he waited for the return of his technical support guru? (p.s. AH -is the podzine web page detail right, it seems to talk about Harrogate 2006 fair?). Check here if you want to download free of charge.
But from the mags I've read, a recognisable source used by most of the outdoor walking fraternity - nothing. (Anyone out there in magazine world care to respond?)
As I've said before, on-line media is complimentary to established publishing methodology.
But hey sometimes we bloggers do have a definite edge.
Labels: TGO Magazine, Trail Magazine, UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
All site material © John Hee - ask before you snatch
Visits to this site more than doubled following a couple of comments I left on OM concerning the value of Trail's piece on 'Lightweight Lakes'. All looking at this post.
None felt the need to leave a comment. But the interest level leads me to suspect I may have hit a sympathetic nerve.
Discuss?
Labels: blog media, Trail Magazine
Trail Magazine - June
Another month, another well laid trap to fall into. Again.
Curses! Clever these publishers. I should have learnt my lesson by now.
Lots of lovely articles to dig into, but once again a sense of deflation. Why is that? A quick glance at the articles:
- Good bit on the new via ferrata route at Honister Hause slate mine
- 'Get into wildcamping' Nice try, but bullet points on a single page - give me a break!
- Philosophy of Lightweight. Interesting, but more content, less double page pictures
- Essential equipment - Ha ha. Got me going there. I was half way through the article before I read 'an adequate supply of water is essential but insufficient' What on earth? Oh right - a sponsored article by the Sugar Bureau aka Designer drinks good; Water bad. Naughty. Very naughty
- Sub 2k tents - reasonable article.
- How to buy a soft shell - with the lead-in stating ".....which is why you need one" Oh. And there's me without one. Heresy. A quick scour of the article and I finally found the answer. In small text. On a green background. Still got no real idea why I 'must' have one. A pity it came across as an order. I don't react well to that sort of approach. Sloppy journalism on an otherwise good article though.
- Eiger history- great bit, this is more like it.
And so on..........
One thought as I dropped it in the recycle rack (after only 1/2 hour reading this month) was a topic that seem to mirror some of my older blog posts (e.g. Walks/Public transport)
Now I've got no monopoly on that idea. After all it's been around for years, but I do recall trying to explain how easily it can be achieved and why. A bit strange to see the number of routes labelled as Public Transport. When did that first start popping up?
This months cover price£3.50; Or £7.00 an hour at my interest level.
And you have this blog all for free. Peachy
Labels: Trail Magazine
Thursday, April 5
TGO, Trail (and the Outdoor Show?)
I'd just finished off May's issue of Trail magazine when postie dropped my copy of TGO onto the doormat. So once more a comparative response due to an accident of timing.
I'd been tempted into buying Trail for the second month in a row by the cover's teaser headings, and a very quick thumb thru before purchase.
It looked good in the shop. But once more I found that I rapidly skipped through it, the chopped-up page layout making it more of a 'dip-into' style, rather than any sort of absorbing read.
But again I felt left with an unsatisfied feeling, and no real reaction to most of the articles, beyond what I've already said about sponsored articles.
The Brecon Beacons routes stuff was ok; Oh and I'll definitely cross a visit to the Dove Crag's Priest's Hole Cave off my list for several months. It wasn't the biggest secret in the Lakeland walks world, but it will attract too much attention now its been included as just another 'great night away'. This Easter weekend should be fun - lol (Just grateful that the other spots I know were overlooked. But perhaps that's why I found them in the first place and continue to use them. Not intended as elitism on my part, more my more solitary enjoyment of the fellside)
TGO was a bit more thought provoking.
For once Jim Perrin's stuff grabbed me, and I wanted to read to the end of his article.
Chris Townsend (as always) delivered the goods, with a thoughtful look at lightweight clothing systems. His point, as I took it, being more about approach to use and mix of clothing, rather than a formulaic Gear A plus Gear B plus Gear C = result. I've already used this mindset successfully last year, shaving pounds of my pack weight by losing the fleece with adding a windproof (Montane Lite-Speed - a real find)
So with both mags put aside, I suddenly realised - not one report about the NEC Outdoors Show in mid April?
Plenty of press beforehand, but no post show round-up? Perhaps the deadline dates for May's copy was too early for the show report, but it leads me to a point I've raised before about one of the roles of the (for want of a better phrase) 'new media'.
The various UK Outdoors Bloggers that attended reported on the event on the day, or within a few days.
The copy may have been at times opinionated and possibly even amateurish, but it did represent a timely man-in-the-street response to what was on offer.
Andy Howell delayed release of the multi podcast reports until earlier this week, possibly while he waited for the return of his technical support guru? (p.s. AH -is the podzine web page detail right, it seems to talk about Harrogate 2006 fair?). Check here if you want to download free of charge.
But from the mags I've read, a recognisable source used by most of the outdoor walking fraternity - nothing. (Anyone out there in magazine world care to respond?)
As I've said before, on-line media is complimentary to established publishing methodology.
But hey sometimes we bloggers do have a definite edge.
Labels: TGO Magazine, Trail Magazine, UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
All site material © John Hee - ask before you snatch
Curses! Clever these publishers. I should have learnt my lesson by now.
Lots of lovely articles to dig into, but once again a sense of deflation. Why is that? A quick glance at the articles:
- Good bit on the new via ferrata route at Honister Hause slate mine
- 'Get into wildcamping' Nice try, but bullet points on a single page - give me a break!
- Philosophy of Lightweight. Interesting, but more content, less double page pictures
- Essential equipment - Ha ha. Got me going there. I was half way through the article before I read 'an adequate supply of water is essential but insufficient' What on earth? Oh right - a sponsored article by the Sugar Bureau aka Designer drinks good; Water bad. Naughty. Very naughty
- Sub 2k tents - reasonable article.
- How to buy a soft shell - with the lead-in stating ".....which is why you need one" Oh. And there's me without one. Heresy. A quick scour of the article and I finally found the answer. In small text. On a green background. Still got no real idea why I 'must' have one. A pity it came across as an order. I don't react well to that sort of approach. Sloppy journalism on an otherwise good article though.
- Eiger history- great bit, this is more like it.
And so on..........
One thought as I dropped it in the recycle rack (after only 1/2 hour reading this month) was a topic that seem to mirror some of my older blog posts (e.g. Walks/Public transport)
Now I've got no monopoly on that idea. After all it's been around for years, but I do recall trying to explain how easily it can be achieved and why. A bit strange to see the number of routes labelled as Public Transport. When did that first start popping up?
This months cover price£3.50; Or £7.00 an hour at my interest level.
And you have this blog all for free. Peachy
Labels: Trail Magazine
TGO, Trail (and the Outdoor Show?)
I'd just finished off May's issue of Trail magazine when postie dropped my copy of TGO onto the doormat. So once more a comparative response due to an accident of timing.
I'd been tempted into buying Trail for the second month in a row by the cover's teaser headings, and a very quick thumb thru before purchase.
It looked good in the shop. But once more I found that I rapidly skipped through it, the chopped-up page layout making it more of a 'dip-into' style, rather than any sort of absorbing read.
But again I felt left with an unsatisfied feeling, and no real reaction to most of the articles, beyond what I've already said about sponsored articles.
The Brecon Beacons routes stuff was ok; Oh and I'll definitely cross a visit to the Dove Crag's Priest's Hole Cave off my list for several months. It wasn't the biggest secret in the Lakeland walks world, but it will attract too much attention now its been included as just another 'great night away'. This Easter weekend should be fun - lol (Just grateful that the other spots I know were overlooked. But perhaps that's why I found them in the first place and continue to use them. Not intended as elitism on my part, more my more solitary enjoyment of the fellside)
TGO was a bit more thought provoking.
For once Jim Perrin's stuff grabbed me, and I wanted to read to the end of his article.
Chris Townsend (as always) delivered the goods, with a thoughtful look at lightweight clothing systems. His point, as I took it, being more about approach to use and mix of clothing, rather than a formulaic Gear A plus Gear B plus Gear C = result. I've already used this mindset successfully last year, shaving pounds of my pack weight by losing the fleece with adding a windproof (Montane Lite-Speed - a real find)
So with both mags put aside, I suddenly realised - not one report about the NEC Outdoors Show in mid April?
Plenty of press beforehand, but no post show round-up? Perhaps the deadline dates for May's copy was too early for the show report, but it leads me to a point I've raised before about one of the roles of the (for want of a better phrase) 'new media'.
The various UK Outdoors Bloggers that attended reported on the event on the day, or within a few days.
The copy may have been at times opinionated and possibly even amateurish, but it did represent a timely man-in-the-street response to what was on offer.
Andy Howell delayed release of the multi podcast reports until earlier this week, possibly while he waited for the return of his technical support guru? (p.s. AH -is the podzine web page detail right, it seems to talk about Harrogate 2006 fair?). Check here if you want to download free of charge.
But from the mags I've read, a recognisable source used by most of the outdoor walking fraternity - nothing. (Anyone out there in magazine world care to respond?)
As I've said before, on-line media is complimentary to established publishing methodology.
But hey sometimes we bloggers do have a definite edge.
Labels: TGO Magazine, Trail Magazine, UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
I'd been tempted into buying Trail for the second month in a row by the cover's teaser headings, and a very quick thumb thru before purchase.
It looked good in the shop. But once more I found that I rapidly skipped through it, the chopped-up page layout making it more of a 'dip-into' style, rather than any sort of absorbing read.
But again I felt left with an unsatisfied feeling, and no real reaction to most of the articles, beyond what I've already said about sponsored articles.
The Brecon Beacons routes stuff was ok; Oh and I'll definitely cross a visit to the Dove Crag's Priest's Hole Cave off my list for several months. It wasn't the biggest secret in the Lakeland walks world, but it will attract too much attention now its been included as just another 'great night away'. This Easter weekend should be fun - lol (Just grateful that the other spots I know were overlooked. But perhaps that's why I found them in the first place and continue to use them. Not intended as elitism on my part, more my more solitary enjoyment of the fellside)
TGO was a bit more thought provoking.
For once Jim Perrin's stuff grabbed me, and I wanted to read to the end of his article.
Chris Townsend (as always) delivered the goods, with a thoughtful look at lightweight clothing systems. His point, as I took it, being more about approach to use and mix of clothing, rather than a formulaic Gear A plus Gear B plus Gear C = result. I've already used this mindset successfully last year, shaving pounds of my pack weight by losing the fleece with adding a windproof (Montane Lite-Speed - a real find)
So with both mags put aside, I suddenly realised - not one report about the NEC Outdoors Show in mid April?
Plenty of press beforehand, but no post show round-up? Perhaps the deadline dates for May's copy was too early for the show report, but it leads me to a point I've raised before about one of the roles of the (for want of a better phrase) 'new media'.
The various UK Outdoors Bloggers that attended reported on the event on the day, or within a few days.
The copy may have been at times opinionated and possibly even amateurish, but it did represent a timely man-in-the-street response to what was on offer.
Andy Howell delayed release of the multi podcast reports until earlier this week, possibly while he waited for the return of his technical support guru? (p.s. AH -is the podzine web page detail right, it seems to talk about Harrogate 2006 fair?). Check here if you want to download free of charge.
But from the mags I've read, a recognisable source used by most of the outdoor walking fraternity - nothing. (Anyone out there in magazine world care to respond?)
As I've said before, on-line media is complimentary to established publishing methodology.
But hey sometimes we bloggers do have a definite edge.
Labels: TGO Magazine, Trail Magazine, UK Outdoors Blogger Convention
All site material © John Hee - ask before you snatch
