The response to the survey was very positive about the current mix of content, perspectives and editorial focus. Thanks to all who provided words of encouragement and to those who warned us against complacency while exhorting us to continue to challenge ourselves and our readership!
Breakdown of results by question:
How and when did you first hear about Energy Bulletin?
62% of survey respondents have been reading EB for three years or longer, and another 32% for more than a year. The majority (56%) came to the site first through a weblink from another organization (typically, http://www.theoildrum.com, but also http://www.latoc.com and http://www.postcarbon.com). Interestingly, 14% of EB readers heard about the site through a friend (have you shared an EB link with your friends?). The remainder heard about EB through a speaker or conference (http://www.richardheinberg.com., http://www.kunstler.com, or http://www.aspo-usa.com, most often), or through searching.
How often do you visit Energy Bulletin?
What do you value most about Energy Bulletin?
The strong themes here were our readerships’ appreciation for the breadth of information and viewpoints. Many readers view EB as a ‘one stop shop’ to keep up with issues. Many readers commented that they value the quality of much of the content and the balanced nature of the editorial focus.
How could we improve/change Energy Bulletin?
50% of respondents to this question like the site as is and have no suggestion – quite a number of these say that we shouldn’t change it, or at least be careful about changing it gratuitously.
Of the suggestions, most were editorial with readers wanting either more articles on solutions, or more on a specific topic. Others had opinions on specific writing or types of article, a number would like a broader international perspective, and some just want more EB – more posts and more at weekends.
Some readers suggested new content types, or more of current ones like multimedia posts or book reviews.
Usability and technical suggestions largely focused on search functionality, indexing and tagging.
Some readers would like more interactivity – some want to post comments, some want to know how to get more people to read EB, some want to rate articles, a few want social networking, and others want to find folks in their area. Many of these understand that it would take considerable effort to manage such an effort.
What industry are you in?
The largest segment of survey responders, perhaps not surprisingly, are retired (13% of the total respondents). The next largest category, also perhaps not surprisingly, are educators (9%), which bodes well for our ability to increase the reach of our information and message. The combined energy sector came third with 8%, with “other energy” at 5% besting “oil and gas” and “coal” by a wide margin. Following on are business 8%, government 6%, health 6%, agriculture 6%, manufacturing 5%, and nonprofit 5%.
Are you involved in local energy/sustainability efforts?
50% of respondents are involved in local sustainability efforts. Of those who are not 23% wish there was one in their area.
Where do you live?
US – 36%
Other countries – 27% – many of these from all over Europe
Canada – 13%
UK – 11%
Australia – 8%
New Zealand – 4%
While a large percentage of readers are from predominantly English speaking countries, there is a strong following in Europe. EB also has readers in Japan, Mexico, Venezuela, Singapore, UAE and Chile.
What is your age?
Thanks you for all of your ideas and input. We will keep them in mind and in hand. We will not be making any radical changes in the near future but will implement fixes and changes as resources allow.
