Reporter/Multi-Skilled Journalist
Since much of Bryce’s reporting referenced documents, it was important that he learned how to integrate documents for the reader to view them firsthand. This hyperlink (in photo below) allowed readers to view the press release word-for-word.
The Apple Leaf opened a poll to users and by the end of its run, it generated approximately 250 responses from students, faculty and parents when the school board voted to move the location of the graduation ceremony. The poll served as an excellent tool for engagement and gave another opportunity for readers to read the story.
The use of mugshots and pull quotes proved powerful online, especially when stories were lengthy. When a story is visually appealing, it’s easier to read, which also increases the amount of time users spend looking at web pages. As of Jan. 25, 2015, this story was the second-most-read on The Apple Leaf’s website for the school year, with users averaging nearly six minutes of viewing time. Bryce believes this is a direct result of the page’s design.
As Online Editor, it was Bryce’s responsibility to choose designs, fonts, colors, photos, and more for the homepage, with the goal of keeping it fresh and updated on a weekly basis.
A key aspect of any design includes superb photos. The homepage design is clean and easy to navigate. Bryce contributed a solid effort to always ensuring balance of the homepage widgets to reduce as much white space as possible.
