Understanding Medium's Distribution Changes for Writers Today
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Chapter 1: Overview of Medium's Distribution System
If you’ve been writing on Medium for a while, you may have noticed the numerous times the platform's algorithm has been updated. Since 2017, Medium has seen various transformations that elicited both praise and criticism. Recently, the platform has redefined its approach to content curation and distribution.
In a statement by Scott Lamb, Medium's VP of Content, he explained:
"This also means that stories do not need to be curated to be distributed. There is no waiting period for curation review and approval; stories are distribution eligible at the time of publishing."
What Does This Mean for Writers With Fewer Followers?
This shift indicates that your stories will reach your existing followers as before. Additionally, they will be shared with a broader audience based on the tags you use. For example, if you write about 'technology,' which has a following of about half a million, your piece will not only go to your followers but also to those interested in that topic.
Does This Increase Your Chances of Going Viral?
Not necessarily! The potential for a story to go viral hinges on how many readers engage with it. The absence of a curation process may allow your story to appear on more homepages, but the ultimate success still relies on the quality of your content and its ability to captivate readers.
This brings us back to the original question: does this mean any significant change for the average writer?
The answer is no! It is vital to concentrate on your writing, the value you provide as an author, and the overall quality of your stories.
Does This Mean Curation Is Obsolete?
Not at all! According to Medium's VP:
"Curation is still very much a thing. Think of this as a 'yes, and' approach—human taste and the algorithm."
Editorial judgment will continue to play a role in promoting high-quality stories. Medium recognizes that readers gravitate towards stories that resonate with them, and the algorithm serves to connect those stories with the right audience.
What Should Writers Focus On?
Keep writing! Your creativity, skill, and dedication should not be overshadowed by changes in the platform's algorithms. Today, it's Medium, and tomorrow it could be another platform. As a writer, your focus should remain on producing quality content and engaging stories that resonate with readers.
Regardless of the modifications Medium implements, as long as you write consistently and deliver compelling content, success on the platform is within your reach.
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