Interest in local newspapers may be in free-fall, but that doesn’t mean interest in local affairs has decreased. So, in response to the gap being left by failing local newspapers, former Google executive Tim Armstrong has formed ‘Patch.’

With ‘patches’ for different U.S. communities – so far there’s a South Orange Patch, a Maplewood Patch and a Millburn Patch, all based in New Jersey – the aim is to provide a place for community-specific news and information.

According to Silicon Alley Insider, the Patch model is based on having a small group of reporters and editors to write some original news content, with the community contributing events, classifieds, and so on.

Here in Australia, we’re seeing local newspapers use a similar model.

Here’s an example of the South Orange Patch and here’s an example of the Northcote Leader.

Source: Henry Blodget, “Tim Armstrong’s “Patch” To Cash In On Death Of Newspapers?” Silicon Alley Insider, February 22, 2009

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