Interactive examples

2009 Inauguration coverage is superb across the board

As I watch the Inauguration coverage on TV, I am scanning multiple Websites to see how different news organizations are covering today’s events. I am thrilled with the innovation and creativity that went into a variety of multimedia packages. Here are three packages that I find particularly impressive …

1) Washington Post’s “TimeSpace: Inauguration”
TimeSpace is a technology created by Washington Post that plots the publication time and geographic location on an interactive map. This google mashup is a great way to provide real-time coverage of the inauguration. As of noon, there are 28 photos, 19 news posts and 1 video. There is also a marker that tracks Obama’s location. Very nicely done! Many UNC students are currently helping the Post cover this event by producing videos from around the city, so make sure to check back later when all of the content is uploaded.

2) New York Times’ “Anticipating Obama’s Inauguration on a City Block”
This feature impressed me most for it’s innovative interface. The swift transitions around the block, as well as the elegant movement from one building to the next was very eye-catching. In total, they feature audio, quotes and photos of 14 citizens on the city block and their involvement in the inauguration. What a creative idea! The clean and intuitive layout maximizes the user experience. I enjoyed getting a close-up view and perspective of one city block in DC. The intro video was also well produced with tight editing, helping to maintain my attention to the end. Amidst the plethora of other Times’ multimedia of the inauguration, this one stands out the most to me.

3) NPR’s “InaugurationReport”
Via TechCrunch, who describes it best: “Run by NPR’s social media desk, it will be collecting dispatches from spectators via Twitter, Flicr, YouTube, and text message. All Tweets or text messages that start with “#inaug09″ or “#dctrip09″ will be included in NPR’s feed, as well as Flickr photos and YouTube videos tagged “inaug09″ or “dctrip09.” There are also an accompanying iPhone and Android apps called IR09, Inauguration Report 2009.” Great use of combining multiple social networks and tools to tell the event through citizens’ eyes. Click here for more information on how this project came together.

Other posts that might interest you:

• Top 50 multimedia sites of 2009
• AP political interactive displays great data visualization and video help feature
• Why we should embrace citizen journalists

© 20 January 2009 Innovative Interactivity (II).