Upworthy’s success demonstrates importance of clickable headlines

Viral sharing site Upworthy is like “chocolate sauce on brussel sprouts,” David Carr wrote, and the site’s more than 9 million monthly viewers are licking their lips. The mission of the site, founded last March by former leaders of Facebook, Reddit and BuzzFeed: Give information-packed links a makeover with eye-catching, clickable headlines, and watch as they go viral; watch as headlines inspire people to learn about issues such as gay rights, women’s empowerment and climate change.

Despite journalist’s outrage, Atlantic’s unpaid freelance request is not unique

The Atlantic apologized for offending veteran journalist Nate Thayer when an editor asked him to cut one of his articles for online publication — without pay. Global Editor Olga Khazan told Thayer that the magazine had depleted its freelance budget but suggested Thayer might benefit from exposure on The Atlantic’s website. Thayer vehemently refused, even though unpaid work is an increasing reality for digital freelancers.

Washington Post’s sponsored content launch suggests advertorials here to stay

The Washington Post recently launched its sponsored content platform “BrandConnect,” which allows marketers to create and display blogs, videos and infographics on the newspaper’s website. The Post will be the first major U.S. newspaper to share its platform with advertisers, Digiday reported, and analysts suggest that it certainly won’t be the last.

KBA plans to enter the packaging printing market

With its acquisition of Flexotecnica, a manufacturer of specialised printing presses, Koenig & Bauer has indicated its intention to expand its existing broad portfolio by entering the growing market for flexible packaging.

Hans Müller, founder of Müller Martini, dies

Hans Müller, founder of the Müller Martini Group, has died at the age of 96 in Zofingen, Switzerland. Müller is credited as having pioneered machine construction for the graphic arts industry and helped shape the industry over decades.

Le Monde appoints first female editor-in-chief, Natalie Nougayrède

Le Monde has appointed its first female editor-in-chief, Natalie Nougayrède, the paper announced. She was selected by Le Monde’s three main shareholders – Pierre Bergé, Xavier Niel and Matthieu Pigasse – on February 13 and their choice was validated by the paper’s general assembly of editors on March 1.

A ‘terrible loss for Post readers’: Is journalism compromised without ombudsmen?

The Washington Post announced their elimination of an ombudsman position following the expiration of former ombudsman Patrick Pexton’s contract Friday. The paper will instead elect a “reader representative” that will not have the same independence as former ombudsmen.

Use video creatively to engage your audience

Last Friday we caught up with two very different experts on news video & TV content and engagement. Naturally we filmed our interviews.

It’s not funny: “Said to Lady Journos” depicts sexist reality for female reporters

Tumblr sensation “Said to Lady Journos,” which showcases offensive quotes directed at female reporters, may provide a laugh, but its underlying message is anything but funny.

Frankfurter Rundschau: sold to FAZ, printing plant to close

One year before its 50th anniversary, the printing plant in Neu-Isenburg is facing closure. The closure is a consequence of the filing for insolvency of the Frankfurter Rundschau (FR) in November 2012.