This is commendable. But you don't need four-part spreads and ten thousand words to make the case. Contrary to conventional wisdom, USA Today and the networks provide excellent business coverage because they put market movements, economic statistics and other business events in a context that shows people what it means. Context is crucial today, given the constant stream of business reports coming from radio, cable TV, Internet business sites and wire services. With all these voices, it becomes essential for thoughtful ones to rise above the babble, make sense of the news and give it some perspective.
Historical context is important in business coverage.
When a business fails, shareholders, analysts and various audiences may forgive it, but they will never forget it. It becomes a case study on what not to do. The financial press also needs to take the long view. Certainly journalism is the first draft of history. But when the first draft can shape events, the press needs perspective.