Last night I "webified" the KUJH-TV broadcast and noticed one of the 692 stories I submitted to the Web made it on-air. The story covered the re-construction of the steam tunnels below the University of Kansas and all the disturbances on campus it is causing. You can see the version of the story I worked on here.
When I submitted this story, I knew it was far from what a true multi-media story could be. Stories of this nature could probably have their own protocol because everyone wants the same information. Think of traffic coverage on the morning news and exactly what you want when you tune in for details. You want to know about the route you are going to drive through, how fast it is going, what the delays are and how long are they going to last. Most news stations now have helicopters, but that is never as useful to me as the map graphics that show exactly where traffic is slow and tell how long the delays will be.
With construction, I think the same scenario applies. In addition to the TV package, I would want a map of the campus. The audience could benefit from an interactive map that details what construction is going on where, what kind of interferences to expect and when they are expected to be done. The great part is, once this graphic is produced, it isn't hard to update with new information.
Also, this story is about the replacement of old steam tunnels. Now, I think a slide show of old steam tunnels would be pretty cool. So far, all coverage of these tunnels is from the top-side construction advantage. I can walk by and see that happening. What I can't see is dangerous steam tunnels that need replacing.
Now, roll-over graphics aren't the most complex beasts on the planet to create, but they aren't intuitive. The data for the graph is simple enough stuff. An online producer should be able to get contact information from the reporters for updating construction deadlines and details on a regular basis. Production of the graphic would probably best rest in the hands of willing online producers for now.
The photography of the tunnels should rest in the hands of those who are already capable and willing: Kansan photographers. Online producers would probably turn it into a show, but I bet you some photogs may have more time and willingness then we realize.
The story and slideshow should have a presence on either KUJH-TV or Kansan.com as normally presented, but the map graphic would be linked from the opening pages of either site until construction is done. The audience who wants an update shouldn't have to do an archive search for a map that's being updated weekly. Afterall, isn't it the readiness of useful information that keeps 'em coming back?
The important theme here is that this story presents an opportunity to tailor information for people who are only interested in what affects them.
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