Examining the use of and preference for online news in the context of intermedia competition
Hsiang Iris Chyi & Hao-Chieh Chang
Chyi, H. I. & Chang, H. C. (2009). Examining the use of and preference for online news in the context of intermedia competition. In L. Leung, A. Fung & P. S. N. Lee (Eds.), New opportunities and challenges of the Internet (pp. 101-123). Hong Kong: The Chinese University Press.
Abstract
A random-sample telephone survey examined the intermedia competition between online and traditional news media from the standpoints of use and preference in one of the most media-rich cities in the world — Hong Kong. In terms of use, the displacement effect of Internet use on television viewing is demonstrated. In terms of media preference, online news users claimed that online news does not compare favorably with traditional news media such as television, newspapers, and radio. Television was perceived as the most likable news medium and online news the least likable. Under several specific media selection conditions, respondents also preferred traditional media to the Internet. Overall, online news is gaining in importance in terms of use, but lacks competitive advantage in terms of media preference. Although use tends to be taken as an indicator of popularity and diffusion, one should not underestimate the potential influence of media preference on the media selection decisions of news users.
