A New Way to Explore Lisbon's News
Starting this week, Mensagem is literally putting news on the map! In collaboration with the newly developed tool, RUA – Rede Urbana em Ação, users can now explore news articles based on their geographical location, making it easier to find out what's happening in their neighborhoods.
Callie Wentling, the founder of RUA, expressed her excitement about this innovation, stating it addresses the frustration many face when trying to access local news. The tool allows users to discover stories, like the Jardim do Caracol da Penha, a green space created through citizen initiative.
Photo: Inês Leote
Mapping the News
This new feature is a first for Mensagem, and while many articles will be mapped, it is a continuous process that will take place over the coming months. The mapping focuses on content where geolocation is particularly relevant. Users will see a label on mapped content that, when clicked, highlights the location on the map and provides access to nearby articles.
The main page of Mensagem will now feature customizable interactive maps that allow users to search for articles by publication date, event date, or keywords. This tool not only enhances user experience but also helps the newsroom identify areas lacking coverage.
Callie's Journey to Mapping
Callie, who moved to Portugal in 2018 from the USA, initially aimed to study Smart and Sustainable Cities. The idea for RUA emerged from discussions in Denver about the difficulty of accessing local events. Now, her project is becoming a reality, promising to improve community engagement and access to information.
“There was a feeling that many things were happening in the city, but it was very hard to understand what was going on,” she recalls.
Future Prospects
The integration of this mapping tool is currently in the testing phase, with new features expected soon, such as proximity-based content discovery. Callie envisions more interactive elements, allowing users to identify their location in relation to the mapped stories.
This initiative is not only a step forward for Mensagem but also serves as a model for other media outlets aiming to enhance local journalism through innovative technology.
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