As part of our recently released report on user-generated content opportunities for newspapers, NAA asked four digital media leaders to write down their thoughts on the topic. The following is an excerpt from one of those essays. The full report, including the opinion pieces, is available at www.naa.org/ugcopportunities. 

The following comes from Ray Marcano, Internet General Manager for Cox Ohio Publishing:

Don’t worry.

That’s, generally, the advice I give when I’m asked about user-generated content. Some sites still shy away from information contributed by its readers, citing legal worries, inappropriate postings and even the sanctity of journalism as their reasons.

Don’t worry

User-generated content gives e-paper sites a tremendous opportunity to reconnect with its users, foster a sense of community and provide community connections in unparalleled ways.

…

What about the worries? In the last few years, as we’ve aggressively ramped up user generated material, there have been precious few problems overall. True, our message boards have been challenging at times, and there are some that we spend more time on than others.

But otherwise, we generally don’t have to worry about inappropriate information because our users tend to be responsible and respectful.

For more about user-generated content opportunities for newspapers, see "Engaging Users: User-Generated Content and Tools for Newspapers" at www.naa.org/ugcpportunities.