Using the Web

I was out covering Hurricane Dolly and found the Red Cross using Flickr and a blog to get out the latest information. I thought it was interesting, especially since you can do updates via blackberry (I do a lot of Pitlist entries on my blackberry). Theoretically, a PIO could update the page from the field. Here are the links:

http://hurricanedolly.wordpress.com/
http://www.flickr.com/photos/americanredcross/2704694941/

If your station doesn't have a huge web staff (or even if it does), this may be something to think about in breaking news situations. If you have something like this set up so that reporters and photogs can send in stuff--- it may be a real advantage. If they are too busy, consider sending out a young hungry tech-savvy intern who can help with this end of things.

Some stations are also using Twitter to put out updates.
http://twitter.com/kpbsnews

This particular station also used a web mapping application for the San Diego wildfires last year-- to show viewers exactly where wildfires and shelters were. If you're in a hurricane prone area, you could do the same thing-- to show evacuation routes, shelter, position of hurricane etc.

If you're in the 20-30 age bracket, you're in a unique position to help your station use the web and interconnect with viewers. Many of your station managers don't use technology in the same ways that you and your friends do. Things that might seem like obvious applications to you may not even occur to newsroom leaders. Speak up and give suggestions. They're important to your station's survival!