A really interesting take on the evolution of news (and content) from the Mediacenter.org that kind of takes the evolution of consumer generated content to a new level.

it says - in part; "It’s mobile, immediate, visual, interactive, participatory and trusted. Make way for a generation of storytellers who totally get it. This briefing summarizes key findings from Media, Technology and Society, a multi-disciplinary research project on the media landscape conducted for professionals engaged in strategies, research, thinking, education, policy and philanthropy related to the future of journalism and media."

Here's the PDF link

Conversations about the future of newspapers recall the story of John Jacob Astor at the bar of the Titanic: “I know I asked for ice but this is ridiculous,”Astor quipped when informed the ship had struck an iceberg. Ten years ago the captains of news saw the emergence of the consumer Internet as a way to defend and extend markets, reduce costs and drive profits through synergies with digital media. I know I asked for ice. They were also warned that the new technologies would disrupt their markets, challenge their control, and create new competitors. ... but this is ridiculous. They should have heeded the warnings.

The unsinkable ship has steered smack into the Internet iceberg. It is leaking from a hole in the hull, there’s structural damage below the surface, and the passengers are manning the lifeboats. Things could get worse. Go to the bar and order an Astor Cocktail.

They will create content and transact commerce through immersive experiences that make a newspaper look like a sunken relic. More content will be available in more formats than ever. It will be created, edited, distributed and shared by consumers. Anyone can find what they want then act on it. A small sample of what’s ahead: