Tuesday, January 24, 2006

One of the highest-profile independent venues for citizen journalism appears to be on its way out. Today, Bayosphere founder Dan Gillmor published this open letter to the Bayosphere community. While not exactly saying "it's over," the writing is on the wall. Gillmor is now leading the non-profit Center for Citzen Media, which he founded recently.

Wrote Gillmor, "We are talking with several folks who are interested in bringing the site under their own wings, as part of operations whose proprietors [partner Michael Goff] and I respect. No promises here: But if we can keep Bayosphere going in a good way we'll work hard to make that happen."

I'm not terribly surprised by this, but I am sad to see Bayosphere go. Gillmor's letter gives a lengthy, thoughtful list of lessons learned from his Bayosphere experience. For instance, "Citizen journalists need and deserve active collaboration and assistance. They want some direction and a framework, including a clear understanding of what the site's purpose is and what tasks are required. (I didn't do nearly a good enough job in this area.)"

I completely agree with that, as I've mentioned earlier in this blog and also at I, Reporter.

I'm concerned that people might people draw unfounded conclusions -- specifically, that the demise of this high-profile venue indicates an inherent lack of economic or business potential for citizen journalism. It's important to realize that we're still very early in the evolution of citizen journalism. Bayosphere represents one attempt -- and despite its flaws, I would never call it a failure. Bayosphere produced a lot of great content and important lessons.

I encourage everyone interested in the news business, and citizen journalism in particular, to read Gillmor's full letter.
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