ABC News are expected to make major cuts Wednesday morning that will reduce the present 1,400 person newsroom division by 20 percent. 300 ABC employees are anticipated to lose their jobs, the consequence of weak advertising. The changes are part ABC’s attempts to reorganize their newsgathering tactics for a more streamlined approach.
ABC is not entirely unique in their restructuring, an increasing number of networks are looking to cut production costs by having individuals produce and shoot their own segments.
Volunteers will have the option of accepting buyouts as early as tomorrow morning. If voluntary exits are not sufficient, mandatory cuts will be made. The staff reductions are of concern not only to those at risk for cuts but the others who will stay on and attempt to adapt to the pared down production methods.
ABC News Preside David Westin is referring to the changes as “a fundamental transformation” looking toward a future of more digital journalists and multitasking staff.
In an interview this afternoon, Westin said "We have managed to keep our heads above water financially but not by much. ..it made us think long and hard to make sure we have a successful and thriving future going out over the next five to 10 years."
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