Say What? Google News Opens Comments Section...Kind of.

Google News USA recently announced its newest online feature and it has online communities - not to mention our public relations team - all atwitter. Google's experimental new tool allows those persons or organizations that are mentioned in a news article to comment on the article after it has been published via Google News.

At first glance, it's an encouraging idea, with major implications for public relations. At YRG we work closely with clients before they engage with the press to ensure that key messages come across clearly, and that statements are concise. After all, reporters are constantly battling space limitations or brevity requirements, and frequently must pick and choose the quotes and key points to include in their articles. So in the best case scenario, Google News comments will allow experts who were quoted in articles to expand on the ideas touched on within the article, clarify information, or provide further resources for the audience that is interested enough to read on.

The Google News comments feature may be a good idea in theory, but the jury's still out until we see how the process is managed. Will Google News commenters behave with integrity, using this opportunity to offer quality information and enhance public debate? Or will this tool be used simply for promotion purposes or to distribute canned corporate messaging?

YRG has frequently observed that authenticity and genuine intentions are key when communicating in legitimate online social communities. When a blogger or commenter's words smack of self-promotion, fellow commenters are often quick to call them on it. However Google News' new feature does not allow outside commenters, and may therefore lack this critical reality check.

Only time will tell how Google News' commentary feature will fare in the ever-changing world of online news, but you can be sure that YRG and others will be keeping track.

08.13.07 // 08:38am