The BBC website is on the right track with this package

25/10/11


'Russian officials have backed the idea of a rail tunnel linking Russia and the US.'

That's the story, now step forward the BBC's web team. Digital content, such as this package, does not carry a byline on the Beeb's website, but whoever put together this brilliant piece of animation deserves great credit. They have taken a solid but somehwhat dry news item and created an engaging, educational and entertaining package.

A snapshot of the BBC package

There is no voice over or narration, nor any interviews of any kind. The only aural stimulation provided is a fast paced backing track. The story itself is told with a seamless combination of real-world footage and digital animation. The package features maps and facts, figures and diagrams. It ticks all the right boxes. The text that is displayed on screen is kept short and snappy and is never allowed to slow the pace of the piece.

This is a prime cut of modern journalism (click here to take a look). The story is clear. All the relevant information is neatly wrapped up in there. At just over two minutes in length it mirrors how the story would and could have been tackled on radio on TV. Most importantly of all the journalist behind the piece has explained to the consumer the context - why the story should matter to them.

I firmly believe that this is an example of a digital news package which can compete with the best that radio and TV have to offer, and one can imagine at only a fraction of the cost.

They say that by 2041 you will be able to take a train direct from New York to Moscow. Long before then though great digital news packages could become the norm.