Like a lot of other design bloggers, I was saddened to hear the announcement about the demise of Domino magazine yesterday. And, like many (see here and here and here for a few other reactions), it got me thinking about how the decision to cancel the website as well as the printed magazine seems to show a lack of understanding of just what the web is all about these days. Considering that much of the costs of magazine publishing is in creating a physical product (print costs, paper costs, distribution costs), why aren't more major magazines exploring the idea of online magazines? Sites like Issuu show that there's still a tremendous demand for magazines, so it seems short sighted, to say the least. So here's my idea: what about a new hybrid of Domino that's both website and virtual magazine? It would follow the lead of independent magazines that offer a limited online version plus (for a fee) the ability to download it so you can read it in full and create your own print version if you prefer. Considering the loyal (and tech savvy) following that Domino has, it seems to me that Condé Nast has squandered a remarkable opportunity. What do you think? Would you pay for an online magazine subscription to Domino?
(photo by Justin Bernhaut, May 2007 issue of Domino)