Simple database applications

"Develop simple database applications with photos and maps to let your users actually find what they’re looking for, or partner with a good third-party vertical who can."
-- That's from Invisible Inkling and his 10 obvious things about the future of newspapers. All 10 are worthwhile. This is No. 2" "It's not Craig's fault."

Inkling (Ryan Sholin) is talking about Craig Newmark and classified ads, but the same point applies to data sets (public teacher salaries, crime stats, guide to golf courses). Hattip to Jeff Jarvis, and his very active Facebook page, for the tip about Ryan.

The Morning Call seems to get it. Evidence: The Morning Call posted 20,000 kennel inspection reports with a story about puppy mills and lax government oversight. More evidence: Chris Krewson was circulating this help-wanted post the other week:

Looking for a data-head with an interest in journalism. The job's "Data Editor," a slight rethinking of our old Computer Assisted Reporting Editor job.

We want someone to acquire and analyze locally relevant data and mash it up.

This person will also build and maintain databases to enhance our news report, from computer-assisted investigative projects to consumer-focused community topics. And also participate in news planning meetings to generate ideas for data.

The ideal candidate would have solid news judgment and some experience as a computer-assisted reporter or editor. The database editor also would be responsible to maintain and update the newsroom Intranet, and would train and assist staff in computer-assisted reporting skills and the Intranet.

This editor needs to be a self-starter and have the ability to juggle both long-term and short-term projects. Knowledge of computer platforms, PC applications, Excel and Access and an understanding of networking are required, as is familiarity with ASP.net and SQL server. Knowledge of HTML and XML is required. Experience with PHP/My SQL is preferred. A bachelor's degree, not necessarily in computer science, is required, a master's would be a plus.

If you're interested, send a resume, work samples or links to your databases to Terry Rang, deputy managing editor, The Morning Call,

101 N. Sixth St., Allentown, PA 18105, or e-mail them to [email protected].

The Knight Foundation and Medill seem to get it, too. That's why there is now a scholarship program to teach journalism to computer students. (Click for more on the Knight grants.)

Ryan, keep posting. There are people who are thinking about the future, with much the same mindset. Thanks for the succinct list.