Digital media changing the information landscape

SALT LAKE CITY — Over the years, John Warnock has developed a reputation as a man of high intellect, creativity and vision.

He has earned several advanced degrees, including a doctorate from the University of Utah in electrical engineering. He holds seven patents and is the co-founder of computer software products company Adobe Systems Inc.

Warnock's resume and vast experience in digital technology development give some context as to why he was the featured speaker at the first-ever PushButton 2010 Summit — an event highlighting digital animation, gaming, mobile distribution, Web development, movies and entertainment.

Warnock said the world of how information is produced and disseminated has changed drastically and will continue to evolve and transform in the years to come. Traditional media outlets such as newspapers, radio and television will prosper only if they embrace technology and alter the way they do business, he said.

"The economics of old (business) models versus new models are entirely different," he told the Deseret News. "The business strategies are entirely different. The economic drivers are different."

He said digital media producers and users will need to "figure out" their place in the new paradigm and learn to adapt to the changing times.

"In our business, you can't hold on to the past," he said. "You have to move into the future."

Opportunities exist for those with creativity and talent, he said. The challenge will be finding out where everyone's talents lie and how they fit in the new digital media business model.

All online experience is dynamic, he told the crowd of several hundred people gathered at the Rose Wagner Theatre. Those with the fortitude and creativity to adapt to the constant change can be among the visionary few who shape the future of the digital media landscape, he added.

"The future of digital media is a very rich future," Warnock said. "The business models are in flux, so that is the reason there is a great deal of opportunity."

Warnock's message resonated with many, including Rich Riesenfeld, professor in the school of computing in the College of Engineering at the University of Utah, who moderated one of the event discussions.

"We're exponentially changing from one era to another," Riesenfeld told the Deseret News. "The question is, 'What will the outcome be?' But we will certainly adapt."

The PushButton 2010 Summit, presented by Grow Utah Ventures, concludes Wednesday.

e-mail: jlee@desnews.com