Business News chairman Elton Swarts (left) was presented with the AABP awards plaques at the Rising Stars awards by CEO Mark Pownall, after his return from the US. Photo: Attila Csaszar

Multimedia wins for BN in US

Friday, 30 June, 2017 - 11:52
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Proving its ongoing ability to deliver across traditional formats and new media, Business News has again been recognised with multiple awards at the annual Alliance of Area Business Publishers in the US city of Dallas.

Business News’s newspaper won overall most improved publication and took bronze for best overall design, while www.businessnews.com.au was awarded silver for best website.

The award haul matched that of 2016, when Business News was recognised for its email products and use of multimedia.

Business News CEO Mark Pownall was on deck in Dallas to receive the awards, which honoured the best of 55 member news organisations that operate in various cities and regions of North America and Australia.

Business News has learned a lot from our peers over the years and in some areas, especially the digital space, we have become a leader,” Mr Pownall said.

“These awards help benchmark that progress as well as being great recognition for the work of our editorial team.”

The judges for the awards said the Business News hardcopy newspaper had made navigation easier for readers following its redesign last year, when it shifted from weekly to fortnightly.

“By adding a technology section and science page, the publication shows an enlarged sense of what business means to their community,” the judges said.

“The design is open and breathes, including more white space.

“Photographic use improved, with larger display and a new photo essay spread.”

On the subject of design, for which Business News won bronze in the medium-to-large tabloid category, the judges commented on the strong branding and a non-traditional nameplate, which gives the newspaper its unique look.

“The design takes risks and chances, in particular conceptual typography and headlines. Body copy is well broken up with pull quotes and drop-ins,” the judges said.

Judges from the University of Missouri School of Journalism credited the style and layout of the Business News website.

“This is a site that uses the internet the way it’s meant to be used,” they said.

“The site offers a highly visual experience, breaking down into industries, most read, most commented, arts, podcasts, and more.

“Design is clean and space on the screen is used effectively – including white space. The site also does a great job of promoting lists and data modules.”

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