Why did Lika Club decide to focus on this project?
Lika Club decided to focus on this project as part of its ongoing effort to strengthen itself as an independent media outlet. Having already collaborated with the Journalism Fund on a previous project, Lika Club was excited to seize the opportunity presented by the PluPro project, which was more accessible than opportunities that are dominated by large media outlets with extensive resources. This project also aligned with Lika Club’s mission to create meaningful content and increase its visibility and credibility and explore a narrative approach to news.
How did applying design-thinking principles help?
Before the project, Lika Club was not aware of design-thinking principles. In applying these principles, though, the team was able to explore new ideas and solutions. Because of the answers they found to these questions, they changed some of their practices and approaches, which proved incredibly helpful. With a small team, Lika Club tends to prioritise efficiency and speed, but these questions encourage the team to slow down, think, and focus not just on their goals, but the importance of the process.
Did Lika Club’s approach change engagement with its audience in any way?
In the past, Lika Club typically focused on written articles, but with this grant the team decided to experiment with a new medium: video. This increased their audience numbers, and also inspired them to experiment with other forms of reporting, such as podcasting and social media. This change proved to be very successful.
What challenges did Lika Club encounter and how did it address them?
The biggest challenge was working with the video format, which was new to many team members, and ensuring that this new medium was well-crafted and well-received by the audience. For the project, Lika Club initially created five different videos, the first of which presented the greatest challenges, but also a landscape for learning. As challenges emerged, the team adjusted and learned how to use video as a creative and fun outlet.
What insights or lessons did Lika Club gain from this project?
Lika Club’s staff learned that it is essential to always step outside of what feels familiar and known and try something new. The team believes these kinds of grants open opportunities to explore new content, formats, and approaches. The benefits of taking risks outweigh the possibility of failure or disappointment.
What are Lika Club’s next steps?
Looking forward, Lika Club is continuing to apply for new grants and be open to new opportunities and experiences. With or without grants and external aid, though, Lika Club is always trying to grow and improve.
What advice would Lika Club give to other journalists or organisations considering a similar path?
“Do it! Definitely do it.” Lika Club’s path opened many doors and exposed the group to many opportunities such as meeting new people, mentors, and colleagues, in addition to developing the news organisation.
Credit: Transitions, Journalismfund Europe's partner for implementing the Microgrants for Small Newsrooms programme, produced this case study.
