Digitalfirst

Digitalfirst is a strategy and design approach that prioritizes digital channels and formats in the creation, distribution, and monetization of content and services. Under digitalfirst, products are designed for online delivery first, with offline or traditional channels treated as secondary or as outputs of the digital system.

The term gained prominence as consumer behavior shifted toward online access and mobile devices, especially during the 2000s and 2010s. It is used across media, publishing, marketing, government, and enterprise domains to reflect a shift from print- or brick-and-mortar-first workflows to digital-first workflows.

In publishing and media, digitalfirst often means publishing content to websites, apps, and streaming services before producing parallel print editions, or even replacing them. Content is tested with digital audiences, data-driven adjustments are common, and formats are optimized for search, sharing, and accessibility.

In government and business, digitalfirst can denote digital-by-default service design, emphasizing online self-service, data reuse, and interoperability across platforms. This often involves agile development, continuous deployment, and a focus on user experience and accessibility.

Benefits include faster iteration, broader reach, and better alignment with modern consumer habits. Challenges include revenue model dependence on digital channels, platform risk, digital divides, security and privacy concerns, and the need for new skills and infrastructure.

Related concepts include digital transformation, mobile-first or responsive design, and omnichannel strategy.