Do you prefer print or online publications?
Among publishers and readers alike, a debate rages over the relative merits of print vs. online publications.
In November, JADA asked readers if they prefer print publications or online publications. While readers responded by postcard or online, the survey did have an evident bias since it was asking a print publication’s readers what they prefer.
Overall, 93 percent of readers, including 100 percent of those who responded online, said they prefer print publications.
When JADA asked readers the same question in January 2000, 78 percent, including about one-half of those who answered online, said they preferred print publications.
Several respondents to the current poll cited comfort and convenience as key factors in why they prefer print publications. "I like to read in a comfortable chair with good back support and with natural light when possible to avoid eye-strain," said one.
"I want to take publications anywhere I go, even where electricity and fresh batteries can’t be found," said another.
"Much of my reading is done while doing something else such as eating, riding in a car, flying on an airplane," said a respondent. "These situations do not lend themselves to being online."
Other readers mentioned that time is an issue. "With a busy practice, I am unable to have ‘dedicated’ reading time and like to be able to quickly read an article during an unexpected lull in the action," said one reader,
"It is time consuming to get online," said another. "It is easier to skim print publications."
A few readers reported that they have little or no access to the Internet. "My wife and daughter have the computer tied up," said one. "I am never able to read online."
"My Internet is very slow out here in Wyoming," said another.
Some said while they prefer print publications, they still do read online materials. "I only read online publications for up-to-the-minute news," said one. "For research and in-depth reporting and editorials, print is superior."
Four percent of respondents to November JADA’s Question of the Month said they prefer online publications, and 3 percent said they have no preference.
According to Julie Ris, director, electronic communications, ADA Division of Communications, Internet use among dentists is increasing. "More and more dental professionals are realizing the potential of the Internet and how it can help them stay in touch, put information at their fingertips instantly, do research, share their opinions, take continuing education courses and increase their business," she said.
Other advantages of online publications she cited include
- – timely and customized content;
- – access to archived material;
- – availability of e-mail and online content via Internet connections worldwide;
- – links in articles to supportive content, databases, listings and indexes;
- – lower production costs;
- – environmentally friendly;
- – the ability to print content, share content with others, and save content on computer for future use.
