No Blogging For NPR Ombudsman

Jeffrey Dvorkin, the Ombudsman for National Public Radio, writes about the new blog, Mixed Signals, on NPR's Web site and tells why he'll stay an ombudsman rather than become a "nonbudsman" (hat tip, Romenesko):

But (and with the Ombudsman there is always a "but"), does "Mixed Signals" do justice to the serious job of journalism that is needed in these times? Or does the blog run the risk of heightening the trivial at the expense of more sober coverage of issues by NPR?

Most people at NPR to whom I asked this question, suggested that I was in no danger of losing my reputation as a journalistic worrywart. In fact, I was told that allowing NPR to publicly "lighten up" was good for internal morale and good for the listeners.

In the interest of full disclosure, I should say at this point, that I was asked to turn this column into a blog and I declined.

Why No Ombudsman Blog?

I declined because I thought that the value of a blog is precisely in its spontaneity and in the play of opinions between the blogger and the listeners. The blogger must do this several times a day in order for the blog to remain "fresh."

If this column has any value to the listeners, it is found, I believe, in deliberately gathering the best opposing points of view together – from NPR and from the listeners – and then to provide an opinion as to whether the listener or NPR was correct. In my experience, the best and most useful answers to the questions and comments I receive are found by taking the time to distill a measured and thoughtful response out of the swirl of argument and contention.

The value of "Mixed Signals" is found in the opposite direction – in the flash and flair of smart deadline writing, clever opinions and in the wit and repartee of newsroom culture. It is essential that the listeners play an important role in giving feedback and comment to the blog.

Frankly, I'm a little envious. "Mixed Signals" is an enjoyable read and I hope that more listeners catch on to it soon. For the next two weeks, it will be run by NPR's Andrea Seabrook whose day job is to report on Washington politics. She, like her predecessors, has a reputation as a sharp observer around NPR. No doubt, hi-jinks will ensue.

As for me, somebody has to stay up at night, worrying.