This paper argues that subscription might be the only viable business model for digital media in the long run. It suggests that this model may provide the best guarantee for excellent, useful, and independent journalism. Also, it discusses 4 case studies in the United States and Switzerland, all of which support the argument that a solid financial basis serves independent journalism best. If a media outlet wants to be profitable, however, a small circulation might be large enough.

Author: Markus Somm