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On giving up certain “rights” as a writer

I was flipping through a popular technology magazine with local content recently and I couldn’t believe my eyes as I almost skipped through one of the gadget review pages. I had to double check the product review written by “writer x” because from what I know about this person’s professional background, he (or she) is currently affiliated with the same company that produces that particular device. The person in question also happens to be a writer as I’ve seen the name frequent technology publications.

But a line has to be drawn somewhere – and this is what you get when the editorial staff of the said publication is not very critical about who writes the review. The review was fair – but I do have to admit, would you, as an editor allow a product manager (or someone in a similar status) write a product review of devices manufactured by the company he or she works for?

The answer is obviously … Nope. This is a sad day in the local tech media.

I’m not sure if the editorial staff knows about this current affiliation. I obviously withheld names out of prudence to this particular magazine, the writer and staff because I don’t want this to become a huge controversy. It’s just … sad.

I don’t have a problem with the writer contributing for a technology magazine. I take issue on the position this person is in to write such a review. There are just certain rights you have to give up. Be careful next time 🙂

By Jayvee Fernandez

Jayvee Fernandez is a tech enthusiast and sitting Techbology Editor for The Philippine STAR.

He is also an EAN certified SCUBA Diver and underwater photographer based in Metro Manila, Philippines. His photos and videos have appeared in various international and local publications including Random House Germany, Discovery Channel Canada, and CNN.

7 replies on “On giving up certain “rights” as a writer”

i’m rummaging through my piles of local mags as to who this PM cum writer is. i know i’ll find out soon. afterall, this industry is just a small world.

allan, are you implying that you think its with the magazine you write for? 😛

tsk tsk!

thanks for the wii remote hack link by the way. 🙂

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