In today's digital media landscape, understanding what readers actually want has become essential for newsroom survival. A new report by FT Strategies and editorial analytics provider smartocto outlines how the user needs model can help news organisations create more relevant content that resonates with audiences and drives revenue.

The model categorises why people consume news into eight distinct needs across four angles.

Rather than focusing solely on what journalists think is important, this framework helps newsrooms understand and address the specific needs driving audience consumption.

According to the report, today's readers are "demanding, selective, and overwhelmed by choices." They do not just want facts; they want to understand why news matters, how it affects them, and what they can do about it.

Stories that address these specific needs create stronger relationships with readers, driving engagement, loyalty and revenue.

The report highlights how publications have benefited from implementing the user needs model.

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