#14: In Conversation with Chris Durso, about Modernizing a Flagship Print Magazine to Lead the Content Plan

Today’s guest is Chris Durso. Chris lives in Arlington, Virginia, right outside Washington, DC. He is the editor-in-chief of Construction Executive magazine, which is published by Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC). He has more than 30 years of experience as an editor, writer, publications leader and content strategist across a variety of industries.  In January/February 2023, Chris and his team at ABC debuted a redesigned and reimagined Construction Executive magazine, along with the new look of its accompanying newsletter. The magazine is published nine times a year and has a circulation of 50,000 — about half are members, the rest subscribers. With the flagship print magazine leading the content plan, they are now in the midst of redesigning the magazine website and boosting their social media strategy.  In this episode, we talk about:  How they began the process of reimagining and redesigning their print magazine, along with a magazine website and newsletter.  How they chose a new outside design firm.  How this process differed from Chris’ previous experience with association magazine redesigns.  They debuted the new look via the magazine-associated newsletter, CE This Week, then debuted the new look of Construction Executive magazine.  What they changed about their newsletter.  After the magazine and newsletter redesign, they are now in the midst of redesigning the magazine website, www.constructionexec.com.  They increased their art budget to lean into the visual aspect of their industry.  The importance of taking the time to find the right vendor partners.   Why it’s beneficial to look outside the association world for redesign inspiration.  Resources: Construction Executive magazine Chris on LinkedIn Chris on Twitter Check out Melanie’s other podcast for freelancers, consultants and solo business owners: Deliberate Freelancer (free on any podcast app).