Searching the Internet as I do I've found that it seems no other citizen journalism site can live up to Digital Journal. That's my personal opinion anyway and I know that others might and will disagree.
Why don't they live up to DJ? Many reasons.
Layout. I like to look at something and not be confused by what I see. I'm good with the computer and the Internet but I always try to imagine what a site would look like to someone who doesn't venture on to the computer often. DJ is very user friendly and has a good, clear layout. Aside from that, users have the option of changing the way the site looks, also a bonus.
Payment. DJ seems fairly unique in that they pay citizens for news. OK, the pay might not be overwhelming but the money always goes to something. If I only may £15 one month it's £15 earned that I otherwise wouldn't have. It all helps. I do write for another site that pays but not for every article you write, only specific ones.
Community. Digital Journal has a fantastic community. Obviously there are people who just post their articles and/or blogs and go away again which is fine. However, there is a fabulous sense of community here which makes it a great place to visit even if there isn't time to write an article or blog it's good to visit and see the support that people give each other. It says something for DJ that members feel they can post about sensitive issues regarding themselves (I'm thinking most recently of Melissa and Cynthia and some others) and the community will rally round and give support and advice. People who are thousands of miles from each other in distance come together on DJ.
The Staff. The staff here at DJ are very open and contactable. They don't hide behind anonymous contact forms and have people writing to you on behalf of them. In other words, the staff here are accessible. They're also fairly patient so even when you have a good old whinge at them they don't hold it against you. ;-) They get back to you quickly if you have a query and they are supportive of members old and new. Their support is a very important aspect of Digital Journal.
The Members. From people who are here every day to those who are occasional visitors there are many, many people here who write thoroughly enjoyable and entertaining blogs and articles. There are also members who don't particularly write any blogs or articles but who can debate well in the comments sections. A real variety of people and views from around the world.
Topics. In half an hour on DJ you might be able to catch the latest breaking news, read about new developments in Afghanistan, be made aware of product recalls, read a funny joke someone shared, find a new recipe to try out or find yourself with a tear in your eye as someone shares personal feelings. Generally it feels like that no matter what your interests are you'll find something you want to read about on DJ.
So that's it, just some of the reasons why Digital Journal has spoiled me. If anyone has plans of starting up their own citizen journalism site, DJ is a hard act to follow.
Before anyone asks, no I'm not drunk. ;-)
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