It’s the decade of digital. Because everything is online these days. With the rise of technology, print was predicted to die. Yet here we are almost twenty years into the 21st century, and print is holding its own. In fact, it’s a far cry from being obsolete. Many corporate giants, like Amazon and Netflix, are turning to magazines for a competitive edge.
You may be asking why these companies would decide to invest in print, especially when both of them are huge players in the digital world. Well to put it simply, it stands out. It has become a nostalgic novelty in the fast-paced realm of tech. Information may be more easily accessible online, but it’s more enjoyable on paper. On top of that it compliments digital, together they make a great team.
So why is print valuable?
A Nice Touch
In the article Print versus Digital from Media Update they break down why readers still love print. And a huge reason for it: it’s tangible. You can pick it up. Smell it (who doesn’t love the smell of paper). See it. Touch it; more fully engaging your senses. You can hold your phone, but it lacks the weightiness and variety of texture that magazines, newspapers, or pamphlets have. With more of your senses engaged it’s easier to absorb the information. It also creates easier memory recall. The physicality of print helps readers remember their location to easily return to where they left off.
A Bit of Light Reading
Digital is all about quick access. Consumers prefer online for quick updates, but a printed medium for in-depth consumption. Because holding a physical copy lacks the distractions of other articles, videos, or pop-ups it creates a better user experience. It’s easier to focus on the content. And it’s a great time to unplug from the world for a little while.
But the best reason of all is people just love print.
