Digital transformation in journalism is not purely technological: Nhan Dan leader

ABO/NDO- Nhan Dan Newspaper’s Editor-in-chief Le Quoc Minh has stated that digital transformation in journalism is not only a technological issue but also involves changes in the mindset of leaders and in newsroom culture.

Speaking at a workshop on September 21, Minh, who is also chairman of the Vietnam Journalists Association, said that although digital transformation has been a buzzword recently, many press agencies in Vietnam are still confused about how and where to start.

Speakers at the workshop on digital transformation in journalism. (Photo: Thanh Dat).

He affirmed the undeniable role of technology in a rapidly changing world, but noted that digital transformation must begin from changes in the mindset of those in leadership positions.

According to the Nhan Dan Editor-in-chief, a news agency is already 60% successful if its leader has a vision and wants to adopt digital transformation, adding that if such spirit is spread to all operations of the newsroom, then the process will likely be successful.

He stressed that along with changes in content, digital transformation in journalism is also about changing the newsroom culture, from infrastructure management to the operation process.

According to Nguyen Thi Thuy Duong, an officer for Google Southeast Asia responsible for news and publishing, press agencies should start by optimising their current resources but should also have a long-term strategy for the future.

Sharing the same view, Minh stated that when it comes to technology, many think it will cost a great deal, but that is not the case, adding that there are now things that a newsroom can do on a daily basis, such as sending newsletters about the most important news.

Minh said that, in addition to building a professional technology team, it is necessary to provide reporters and editors with basic technological skills.

(Source: NDO)