This is one of the most pivotal moments in product and technology we’ve ever faced.

Over the past year, INMA has documented the shift of media companies from chasing traffic to ruthlessly serving core customers, reinforcing core product principles, and doubling down on audience value.

While we’re standing on the edge of a cliff of change — aware of what’s coming but not yet seeing it reflected in most consumer behaviour — early warning signs are here in the form of traffic drops for some publishers. AI is moving at breakneck speed, and one regret we consistently hear from CEOs is not moving quickly enough to adapt.

In this end-of-year report card to INMA members and the wider news industry on the work of the Product & Tech Initiative, we’ll reflect on the progress made to prepare members for what is next.

We’ll focus on processes and principles that keep audiences at the centre, explore the changing distribution landscape, and outline the urgent next steps to stay ahead. This town hall will be both aspirational and practical, tackling the most critical product and tech issues news media must address now.