Crane Hot Line is part of the Catalyst Communications Network publication family.
Nearly four decades ago, at the start of my career as a B2B magazine editor, a seasoned industry journalist and mentor explained my role. “Our job is to figure out what our readers need to know and give them information they can use to improve their company’s operations,” he said.
It’s a lesson I have carried with me and a goal I have strived to achieve since then, and over the years, it’s been one of the main criteria I consider when deciding whether to join the staff of a publication. If a magazine — or in more modern terms an industry media outlet — is not focused on serving their readers it is no place for me.
When the opportunity to begin writing for Crane Hot Line came my way, however, the decision was simple. I had known Mike Larson, editor emeritus, for several years through an industry association, and knew we were cut from the same cloth. Moreover, Crane Hot Line had proven to be a very valuable resource for its audience.
More recently, with the acquisition of this publication by Catalyst Communications Network and the opportunity to expand my role, the choice was never in doubt. From my first discussions with the company’s leaders and continuing today with the content team, it has been clear that reader value will always be a top priority.
In Crane Hot Line, I also saw an opportunity to use the expertise I have developed serving at truck fleet, and transportation and logistics magazines. Immediately apparent were the similarities between the information needs of these vital industries. Across the board, the management of commercial assets comes with many of the same challenges. The idea that I could help industry stakeholders solve them by providing solutions was of immediate and great interest.
Going forward, the information needs of Crane Hot Line readers will be the driving force behind the development of our editorial content. We will explore current and long-term issues with sources among crane users, manufacturers and providers of services and industry entities. We will tell your stories accurately, and in an engaging way.
Our editorial calendar lists some of the many topics we will be covering, including features that focus on all types of cranes, the specialized transportation they require, management practices for operations, personnel and maintenance, safety and a wide range of products, solutions and technologies. At the same time, our digital media and newsletters allow us to bring you information in a timelier manner.
We will also be relying on you to help us achieve that goal by reaching out to gauge your interest and to provide us with material to address your needs. Working together, we will “figure out what our readers need to know and give them information they can use to improve their company’s operations.”
