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Vol. 72, No. 6, June 1999

Editor's Note

A New Look for Wisconsin Lawyer

By Joyce Hastings,
Editor

During this magazine's 72-year history, four editors took the publication through three title changes and at least six major redesigns. This month the editorial board and staff present a new look for the Wisconsin Lawyer, culminating more than a year of work that began last spring with a readership survey.

Clearly, our readers find the WL a valuable resource, with seven in 10 members reading one-half or more of a typical issue. Interestingly, solo practitioners and lawyers over age 55 are more likely to read an entire issue.

Developing editorial that appeals to the diverse interests of our readers is a challenge. Our instate readers want cutting-edge information about state law developments, while our 5,000 nonresident members want practice management tips. Women more frequently read articles about career satisfaction and transition. Those in practice less than 15 years are more interested in technology and practice management topics. Lawyers practicing for more than 25 years enjoy legal history.

Survey respondents tell us they like to read about their colleagues, particularly the "Personal Mentions" column. Supreme Court and Court of Appeals digests, disciplinary actions, and ethics advice also receive high readership. Eight in 10 readers want the WL to continue publishing the digests, even though there are other sources for this information.

Some design and editorial changes introduced in this issue - and future issues - are obvious, others more subtle. Some changes are targeted to appeal to a younger audience, while others are intended to appeal to the small-firm practitioner that comprises more than 50 percent of our membership, and other changes simply improve current offerings. Changes include:

• new typography that updates the magazine's look, including a ragged-right line ending to increase readability;
• an expanded "Personal Mentions" column, now known as "In the News," featuring photos to facilitate lawyer-to-lawyer networking and referrals;
• a more visually interesting table of contents and "Legal News & Trends" column, formerly titled "News Briefs";
• more frequent coverage of ethics issues, tips for running an efficient small practice, and advice on various career alternatives, among other topics; and
• a greater commitment to involve readers in the publication, whether it is through letters to the editor, how-to practice advice, or humorous real-life anecdotes.

The editorial board serves as the eyes and ears of the profession, devoting countless hours annually to evaluating material submitted to the publication and thinking about future direction. This support is invaluable. Of course, a magazine is only as good as the staff behind it. The WL staff is top-notch. I wish you could witness their enthusiasm and commitment to delivering a quality product to you each month - from their attention to detail to the excitement we share when we find the perfect art to accompany a well-written article.

Magazines are fluid. From issue to issue, the editorial board and staff reevaluate its content, tinker with its design. With your input we will continue to strive to deliver a forward-looking, insightful publication that addresses the issues you face.

Please let us know what you think.