In today’s tech journalism landscape, there is a trend towards reporting that resembles business news rather than storytelling. The focus often lies on funding rounds, acquisitions, and other business-related updates. While this intertwining of business and technology reporting is prevalent, it leads to a homogenized narrative across tech publications.
Tech journalism should expand beyond business updates to encompass a broader spectrum of topics, delving into the cultural, social, and human aspects of technology. Technology intersects with various facets of human life, from agriculture to religion, influencing behaviors, traditions, and societal norms. These intersections offer rich storytelling opportunities that go beyond traditional business reporting.
For instance, the evolution of farming technology from machetes to automated machines tells a story of progress, adaptation, and market dynamics. Similarly, the use of age-old Danfo buses in Lagos or the digitization of religious practices reflect how technology intertwines with culture on a daily basis.
Even within the tech business realm, there are stories beyond funding rounds and acquisitions. Exploring topics like corruption, data manipulation, and employee exploitation sheds light on the darker side of the industry. Additionally, examining the impact of technology on societal shifts, such as cancel culture or the reshaping of religious authority through social media, presents valuable narratives that are often overlooked.
Tech journalism has the potential to reach a wider audience by exploring these diverse narratives. By moving beyond conventional business reporting and tapping into the multifaceted aspects of technology’s influence on society, journalists can create more engaging and impactful content. It’s essential for tech journalists to embrace a wider scope of storytelling that goes beyond boardroom dealings and venture capital to truly capture the essence of technology’s impact on everyday life.