Transitioning from the printed word to online media was somewhat of a struggle for news organizations. Headline positions had to be completely reinvented, and a foundation for user-navigation had to be created. How is a conventional news website constructed, and how do they succeed?

First, consider that the conventional online news format is not most efficient, it is simply the best online adaption of a newspaper. The New York Times original website was a perfect example of this (they recently updated their design) — a standardized look with emphasis on the gray overtones and blue links.

The primary benefit of using this conventional news format is familiarity. Visitors will instantly recognize the website as a news. However, it can also turn them away if it lacks an aesthetic identity. One of the most tell-tales of news sites is the tabular columns and blocky feel. This “online newspaper” style is evident on CNN, BBC, and even Google News. They construct it so for just that reason - the online newspaper. It is the theory that people will easily transition to their service because it reads conservatively and locally.

A plethora of new sites, such as digg and Newsvine are coming up with completely unique designs for delivering the news. Conventional news websites are fading quickly. Web users these days are familiar enough that they want the most efficient and fun way to get information. Even big-name companies are reinventing their online identity to serve the news fresh.

The convential news website is a dying breed, but it is probably for the better.