In a world where technology and AI are reshaping information flows, and civic space is shrinking in many regions, the ability of independent media to adapt quickly and strategically has never been more critical.
That is why RNW Media has launched the Digital Transformation Assessment – a new, free tool that provides insights to media outlets navigating constant digital and organisational change. Developed in collaboration with partners worldwide, the tool gives each respondent a personalised 17-page report with a Digital Transformation Score, alongside insights into their current set-up and practical next steps.
This new online tool builds on RNW Media’s offline Digital Maturity Assessment, evolving it into a more nuanced and forward-looking framework. At its core is a focus not only on independent media’s systems and processes, but also on the motivational and behavioural dimensions of transformation – how independent media engage with change, build momentum, and sustain it over time.
“By providing robust data insights and scoring, this assessment tool offers individual media organisations tailored guidance in driving their own digital transformation,” says Boris van Westering, Senior Media Viability Expert at RNW Media. “It not only supports strategic internal conversations, but also opens the door to meaningful engagement with funders and stakeholders – ultimately contributing to a stronger, more innovative digital media ecosystem.”
“We were delighted to work with Boris and the team at RNW Media on this,” says Jason Lambert, Founder of Felixe. “This was a chance to go deeper – not only into how independent media create and distribute content and use online tools, but also how their teams adapt to transformation.”
Conceptualised by RNW Media, designed and built by Felixe, and with visual enhancements by Naksu Design, the assessment draws on three established frameworks:
- The Star Model explores organisational design – strategy, structure, processes, rewards and people – as key enablers of transformation.
- A simplified version of Kotter’s 8-Step Model assesses readiness for change, focusing on urgency, strategic direction, and the capacity to generate momentum.
- An adapted Value Chain Analysis evaluates how digital tools are embedded across core activities such as content creation, distribution, monetisation and collaboration.
The tool was co-designed with insights from RNW Media’s partners KirkukNow, Nairobits and Raseef22, whose experiences helped shape its relevance for media working in diverse and often challenging environments. Sillon Estudios and We Are Europe tested the solution and suggested additional, valuable refinements.
About RNW Media
RNW Media is an international media development organisation based in Haarlem, the Netherlands. We harness the power of independent digital media to uphold human rights and advance the public good.
Active in more than 40 countries across Europe, North Africa, the Middle East, West and East Africa, East Asia, Central and South America, we work to defend media and internet freedom, and to protect the universal rights to information and freedom of expression.
With over 75 years of experience, RNW Media has evolved from an international radio broadcaster into a leading champion of independent digital media. Together with our partners, we are building a diverse, resilient, and trustworthy digital media ecosystem that informs people, shifts narratives, influences social norms, and drives policy change – reinforcing the vital role of independent media in open and democratic societies.
Felixe focuses on improving prospects for media outlets amid rapid technological advancements and growing threats to their existence.