Tuesday, February 25, 2003

John Robb discusses his desire for a more sophisticated search and presentation of newspaper classified ads (he mentions cars). There are many opportunities to leverage, grow and improve that newspaper ad business. However and unfortunately, in many cases, the news organizations will not allow their clients to use their print contract spending dollars for internet ad campaigns or products. In other words, the internet spending must be additive, not in place of print spending.... Ironically, newspapers that have adopted this approach are in effect handcuffing their clients in the short term, while new competitors prepare the tools to remove those devices. They are trying to protect the print business, of course. The explosive growth of monster.com and other sites at the expense of newspaper employment ads should make them think twice about this strategy. There are real opportunities in this space. The players will need deep pockets and a thick skin, but as they say, the times, they are changing.... 12:06:21 PM