MEDIA CONVERGENCE

• Media Convergence

-Media convergence is a term that  the merging of previously distinct media technologies and media forms resulting from digitization and computer networking or an economic strategy in which the media properties owned by communications companies employ digitization and computer networking to work together .

The term, Media Convergence came up at the recent InDesign User Group in the context of developing interactive digital media magazines for the iPad and other upcoming media tables.  In broad strokes, it is the blending of multiple media forms into one platform for purposes of delivering a dynamic experience.

The most succinct definition of what media convergence  came from a university FAQ for a media classes.  The following are definitions that I responded to.

• Media convergence is the merging of mass communication outlets – print, television, radio, the Internet along with portable and interactive technologies through various digital media platforms.
• Media convergence allows mass media professionals to tell stories and present information and entertainmentusing a variety of media.
• Converged communication provides multiple tools for storytelling, allowing consumers to select level of interactivity while self-directing content delivery.