Sectors
Capabilities
Specialisms
A few weeks ago, we had the pleasure of hosting Bloomberg’s U.S. technology columnist, Dave Lee, for another ‘Meet the Media’ session with the Brands2Life team. Having previously worked at the BBC and The Financial Times, this was a great opportunity to explore the intricacies of tech journalism and delve a little deeper into the impact technological advancements are having on society with someone reporting on them from the front line.
During our discussion, Dave emphasized some of the key challenges journalists face when covering the fast-paced tech sector. Staying updated on the endless technological advancements was one of primary concern, highlighting the need for both depth of knowledge and accessibility to industry experts for accurate reporting – all of which are vital to helping them translate the complex technical concepts into understandable language for a broad audience.
Dave also pointed out the important balance that needs to be maintained in reporting; namely, simplifying the technical details without compromising accurate and engaging storytelling. This is especially important when it comes to complex topics like cybersecurity and being able to navigate conveying adequate technical detail and broader societal context. He highlighted that in these instances, for journalism to be effective, it needs to tread the fine line between ensuring that the story is not only informative but also understandable and relevant to the average reader.
If not reported simply and clearly, it’s unlikely to achieve its aim of raising public awareness or helping individuals understand the risks to their own lives, hindering their ability to protect themselves.
Another area Dave emphasized that’s becoming increasingly important in tech journalism is the ability to discern genuine expertise in emerging fields. He pointed out that with every new technological frontier, a fresh wave of self-proclaimed ‘experts’ emerge, complicating the media’s role in providing clear and authoritative coverage.
A great example of where we’re seeing this now is in the AI sector, with companies ‘rebranding’ employees with titles like ‘AI Expert’ to capitalize on market trends and gain media attention, despite a lack of substantial expertise. This is an unfortunate but real trend that complicates the task of journalists when it comes to cutting through the noise and finding true thought leaders whose insights drive the field forward.
Another fascinating element of our discussion focused on the societal implications of technology’s rapid evolution. An example of this being the Cambridge Analytica scandal, starkly illustrating the potential for technological tools to manipulate public opinion and disrupt democratic processes. Such instances also shed light on the power of technology to shape political landscapes, underlining further the crucial role journalists play in deconstructing these complex issues for the general public.
Our conversation extended beyond just the reporting aspect, and also touched on our collective responsibility to evaluate and guide the development of these new digital innovations. It also served as a reminder of the need for well-informed public debate on the impacts of technology on society and actively participating in shaping their impact to ensure they serve the greater good.
Our discussion with Dave Lee underscored the crucial role of the media when it comes to enriching our grasp of the tech landscape. These interactions not only help to shed light on the changing role of technology journalists but also the impact of well-informed media discussion on shaping public perception.
As we continue our “Meet the Media” sessions, our aim is to bridge the gap between technological innovation and societal discourse, ensuring our narratives and dialogues foster well-informed, engaged communities. These sessions are more than just exchanges of knowledge; they’re about building communities equipped to navigate the future.
See all