Simon’s Blog

A couple of days ago, I wrote about the inability of traditional media companies to get their “product” to consumers, when they want it, the way they want it (see, Clueless Traditional Media - Andreessen Hits Nail On Head).

However, in the spirit of fairness, I thought I should point out that it’s not only the old companies that are unable to grasp these rather simple concepts. Sometimes, people in new media don’t get it either… Take, for example The Gillmor Gang which has just come back after a break. In its new form, it’s inexplicably a closed Facebook Group. Inexplicably published long after the shows are actually recorded. And inexplicably split into multiple parts. Why? None of that is what the audience wants! I’d link you to the actual show, but Gillmor specifically asks that people don’t link to it. Fine by me.

Without even thinking about it, I can think of a few ways to improve the way this show is released. First, forget about the closed group. Instead, make one of the new Facebook product pages where people can sign up to be fans of the show, or have an open group. Second, don’t split up the show into multiple parts. Instead have a single audio file, and make sure there’s a downloadable MP3, as well as embedded audio player. Third, if there’s a desire to insert ads into the audio itself, don’t make the ads ponderous, tedious and rambling; make them short, snappy and entertaining (watch Revision3’s show Diggnation if you want to see how to deal with show sponsors in a way that doesn’t totally piss off the audience). Fourth, if possible, do a live show at the same time every week. If that’s not practical, upload the recorded show at the same time every week (e.g. 12pm on Thursdays)… without fail.

Instead of linking to the show then, I’ll embed a YouTube video (from 1938 Media) that contains a recorded phone conversation between Steve Gillmor and another member of The Gang, Jason Calacanis. To be honest, I can’t tell whether they’re trying to be serious or not (one would guess - not)… but in the call, Jason very clearly tries to explain to Steve Gillmor what the listeners want; Gillmor inexplicably responds by saying, “I don’t care.” Steve claims to understand… but, from the way he talks, I just don’t think he does.

Anyway, whether Gillmor/Calacanis are for real on this call or not, it’s genuinely funny. Enjoy…

Mahalo for the laughs, guys