Why is timeliness considered a crucial element of newsworthiness?

Timeliness is considered a crucial element of newsworthiness because it directly correlates with the public's interest in current events. In the realm of public relations and journalism, people are often more engaged with stories that relate to the immediate context or recent happenings. When news is timely, it captures the audience's attention, as individuals tend to prioritize current information that affects their lives or communities. This heightened interest in up-to-date stories can drive conversations, influence decision-making, and enhance the overall relevance of the information being shared. In contrast, elements like the length of a story or the costs associated with media production do not inherently affect the perceived importance of the news; rather, they may influence other aspects of the storytelling process but not its timeliness or relevance to the audience. Similarly, while knowing the target audience is important for strategic communication, it does not define the impact of timeliness on newsworthiness.