PBS Plans MediaShift, Will Launch Blog

The increasing use of new media will be documented and discussed in a new blog on PBS's Web site. MediaShift will launch on January 18 and will highlight topics such as blogs, podcasts and other forms of online news and information.

MediaShift will be hosted by industry expert Mark Glaser, who has contributed stories to such places as the Los Angeles Times, CNET, The New York Times and Entertainment Weekly.

"I'm thrilled to be working with pbs.org, one of the most trusted names in media, to cover the topical subject of how technology and the Net are transforming the media," said Glaser. "After writing about blogs and new media as an observer for so many years, I'm finally walking my talk by writing a blog, and actually practicing what I've preached for so long. I'm looking forward to writing about new forms of journalism and media while also submerging myself in this world even more -- and letting my audience participate in new ways."

The new blog will feature four main areas, according to a recent PBS press release. These areas are:

• Blog
  

• In-depth blog posts will include rotating features, such as: Q&A's with industry leaders, commentaries and substantive reporting on recent developments.
  

  "The blog will be a lively read, entertaining and enthusiastic about new developments in the media landscape -- with a healthy dose of skepticism reserved for overly hyped initiatives with little substance," said Glaser.
• Your Take
• Each week, a different contention or question will be posed to MediaShift's readers, who will be invited to add their views or share relevant information. One example might be: "Do you trust Google News to be fair and accurate?" The question would also be posed to people with a vested interest in and/or particular knowledge of the subject, including people at news outlets, analysts and executives, and news consumers.
• Top 5 Chart
• This chart will list top companies, people and ideas that are gaining momentum or buzz in the new media world, including new initiatives or breakthrough services.
• MediaShift Reading List
• A running list of the best media-related books, blogs, sites and research reports, updated regularly.

The blog will most likely target the average user while still offering enough content to keep the tech savvy person interested.

PBS is a private, not-for-profit media company that offers a range of documentaries, dramas and kid oriented programs for television and the internet.