Digital shift of print media in North Sumatra: monetization & impact

The transition from print to digital media is a global phenomenon driven by technological advancements, changing consumer preferences, and economic pressures. This study explores the transformation of local print media in North Sumatra, Indonesia, with a focus on monetization challenges and their impact on public information consumption. Employing a qualitative descriptive approach, data were gathered through in-depth interviews with media practitioners, document analysis, and literature reviews. The findings reveal that local outlets such as Harian Waspada, Analisa, and Sinar Indonesia Baru have adopted digital platforms to cope with declining readership and advertising revenues. However, they face persistent monetization obstacles, including intense competition from global platforms like Google and Facebook, limited success with paywalls, and reliance on digital advertising. This digital shift has also altered public information consumption patterns, with a growing preference for online platforms and social media due to their immediacy and accessibility. While digitalization offers broader reach and reduced operational costs, concerns remain regarding the decline in journalistic quality and the spread of sensational content. This study underscores the urgent need for innovative digital business models and stakeholder collaboration to ensure the sustainability of local media in North Sumatra. The findings contribute to a deeper understanding of regional media transformation in the context of global digital disruption.