USA TODAY - The Next Generation

MCLEAN, Va. - In what could be termed “The Next Generation of Network Journalism”, USA TODAY has re-launched the USATODAY.com Web site, which combines professionally created content from USA TODAY writers, with consumer-generated content, comments and recommendations, creating an entirely new experience for readers.

“We’re particularly pleased in our 25th anniversary year to launch a new generation of our Web site,” said Ken Paulson, Editor and Vice President/News, USA TODAY. “In many ways it’s an extension of the mission we set for ourselves nearly 25 years ago, but recast for an era in which readers increasingly have the power to monitor many sources of information at once; to more quickly assess the credibility of those sources; and to share their reactions with a wider audience.”

This expanded journalistic mission will be accomplished through a combination of original reporting, linking to selected accounts from other news organizations, revealing what consumers think about stories and connecting them with others who may have insight into a particular issue. USATODAY.com users will be able to contribute to the site in a variety of ways including submitting comments on story pages, participating in forums on topics of special interest, uploading photos and even authoring blogs.

“The new site will engage the readers more directly in the news than ever before,” said Kinsey Wilson, Executive Editor, USA TODAY. “The site will help readers make sense of the world around them by giving them a wider view of the news of the day and connecting them with other readers who can add to their understanding of current events. By reporting the news, applying our judgment to the wider Web and tapping our readers’ insight and expertise, we believe the new USATODAY.com will provide a quicker, smarter look at the news.”

The new USATODAY.com Web site allows for easier and more immediate user feedback. This will help include more readers in the conversation and spur thoughtful discussion and debate on a variety of important issues.

In addition to being more interactive, the new USATODAY.com Web site has been made more user-friendly. Upgrades include simplified navigation, an improved search capability and a cleaner layout. Readers will also be able to more easily find related stories.

“The new USATODAY.com builds on the strengths and brand legacy of USA TODAY, capturing the national conversation and tapping into the pulse of the nation,” said Jeffrey Webber, Senior Vice President Advertising/Publisher, USATODAY.com. “By integrating social media tools into every part of the site, we are creating a powerful combination of content and community that offers users a way to leverage social media under the umbrella of a trusted brand.”