Volume 4, Number 3, Winter 1996
Reality Check for Quarterdeck
Quarterdeck magazine began in March 1993 as a four-page, black-and-white newsletter. From the beginning, the central purpose of the publication was outreach and not internal communication. The goal remains to explain to our readers what we do and why it matters.
The newsletter evolved into a two-color magazine format in 1994. It has grown in size and sophistication since then, but the mission has not changed. As you will note from the present example, each issue features a science theme article written in accessible language, amplified with related side pieces, and illustrated with clarifying graphics. Each issue also includes short articles about department activities, new faculty, student perspectives, and briefs written by recent graduates explaining their thesis or dissertation research.
After four volumes of Quarterdeck, it is time for a thorough review. The magazine is justified by the service component of our department mission and it appears to be a wise use of our limited resources. We must determine if this is, in fact, the case and whether significant course corrections are needed. Thus we are embarking on a review that will refine the purpose, scope and mechanics of Quarterdeck magazine, and I will be asking for your help. The process has already begun with an internal review by oceanography faculty, staff, and students.
It is most important that we hear from readers outside the environment of oceanography at Texas A&M. I want to be sure we are not just "preaching to the choir." In an upcoming issue we will include an anonymous survey soliciting your comments about the magazine. The questionnaire will require only a few minutes to complete and will be easy to return, perhaps using our website for readers with that option. However they are provided, your suggestions will make a difference and I will read each one. |
Comments to: web@ocean.tamu.edu
Last updated January 31, 1997
