Pioneering the media convergence: lifestyle media production in the digital age in China

ABSTRACT An interpretivist methodology was adopted in the research using interview and observation techniques to build a broader qualitative picture of media convergence and innovation of lifestyle media organisations in PRC. By tracking the convergence of three media from 2014 to 2017 in China, this study has found that in the transitional period, the macro-political system unavoidably plays a restrictive role while the motivation of media organisation leadership to innovate is the key factor to success. Furthermore, original content production based on accurate positioning of the target as a niche player is positively linked to performance and profitability. The research team argues that it is not the mainstream news media, but instead the small and agile niche-player media that may pioneer the process of media convergence and innovation.