Why have we changed the blogs at independent.co.uk?

The way we were: Digital cameras, transmission and media weren't even the stuff of sci-fi for Keystone photographer Fred Ramage in the 1940s (Photo by Chris Ware/Keystone Features/Getty Images)

In short, the answer to the headline question is simple: To make them better.

We wanted:

* to integrate them better with the main site, inheriting some of its look but still maintaining their distinctive feel;

* to raise their standards, using only in-house or invited bloggers, combining with our drive to improve the standard of comments;

* to continue pushing forward a site that is ever more social-media-friendly, incorporating our recently improved and well-received comments functionality;

* to add more sections to our popular Eagle Eye on politics, with newcomers comprising The Foreign Desk, Sports, Art and the widely-embracing Notebook;

* to enable our posters to add quicker views and analysis more easily.

The last point will be especially beneficial to The Independent’s overseas correspondents, with their busy and occasionally perilous lives. As long as they can send an email, that can be posted immediately, including any image.

The blogs are built with a standard WordPress system, incorporating our Disqus comments. We are demonstrating that globally standard programs can free mainstream journalism from the complex bespoke set-ups of the past.

Let us know any thoughts our suggestions. Other sections are planned and we’re listening…

Martin King, Online Editor, independent.co.uk

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