Faqs Can Revitalize Editorial, Too

Folio: The Magazine for Magazine Management, Nov, 2000

It's always great to hear from readers of this column. Chris Beytes, editor of Grower Talks Magazine, a greenhouse industry trade publication, sent us an e-mail recently about an item that appeared in the September 15 FOLIO: Plus on inexpensive ways to revitalize editorial. Chris offers his favorite idea--FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions).

As a trade publisher, he often covers products that relate to his industry. But, he says, he has found an approach that adds a new dimension to the ho-hum standard product review: "I ask manufacturers or other experts to answer the frequently asked questions they get from potential customers. The Q&A format is quick and easy to read, and I know I'm helping readers who are new to the industry, and probably answering some interesting questions of veterans, too. It's also an easy way for nonwriters to contribute to my magazine."