Computer Weekly: A Legacy of Technology Journalism
Launched during the dawn of the computing era, Computer Weekly established itself as a cornerstone of technical reporting. First published on September 22, 1966, it holds the distinction of being the first weekly publication dedicated entirely to technology, providing critical insights to IT professionals for over half a century.
Key Facts
- Founded: September 22, 1966.
- Format: Transitioned from print to digital-only in April 2011.
- Ownership: Digital assets and events acquired by TechTarget.
- Distribution: Historically free for qualified IT professionals.
- Major Achievement: Won the 2024 British Journalism Awards for reporting on the Post Office Horizon scandal.
Editorial Leadership and Evolution
The publication's direction has been shaped by several key editors over the decades. Chris Hipwell led the magazine for its first ten years, followed by John Lamb during the 1980s and 1990s. Tony Collins served as executive editor for over two decades, from 1989 to 2010. Currently, Bryan Glick, who joined in November 2009, serves as the editor-in-chief.
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Business Model and Circulation
Unlike traditional consumer magazines, Computer Weekly operated primarily as a free resource for IT professionals who met specific circulation requirements. While a small number of copies were sold in retail stores, the publication's financial viability relied heavily on display and recruitment advertising. During the 1990s, the demand for IT talent was so high that issues frequently contained up to 100 pages of advertisements.
Circulation grew steadily over the years. In August 2007, the publisher reported a circulation of 135,035. By its 50th anniversary on September 22, 2016, the reach had expanded to 200,000 weekly magazines, with an additional 400,000 counted through monthly and quarterly regional editions.
| Year/Date | Milestone |
|---|---|
| September 22, 1966 | First issue published |
| August 2007 | Circulation reached 135,035 |
| April 2011 | Final print edition; transitioned to digital-only |
| September 22, 2016 | 50th Anniversary celebration |
| July 28, 2021 | Launched Most Influential Woman in UK Technology awards |
Impactful Journalism and Awards
Beyond reporting on hardware and software, Computer Weekly has a history of high-impact investigative journalism. The publication won the UK Periodical Publishers Association (PPA) "Campaign of the Year" award five times within a seven-year span. These campaigns covered critical societal issues, including the costs of the NHS computer system, accessibility of websites for disabled people, and the Chinook crash on the Mull of Kintyre.
In more recent years, the publication gained significant recognition for its role in uncovering the Post Office Horizon scandal. Coverage of this systemic failure began in 2008 and culminated in the publication winning the "Campaign of the Year" category at the 2024 British Journalism Awards. Former reporter Rebecca Thomson, who led the early coverage of the scandal, was appointed Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) in the 2025 New Year Honours for her services to justice.
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Frequently Asked Questions
When did Computer Weekly stop printing physical copies?
The last print edition was produced in April 2011, after which the publication moved to a digital-only format following TechTarget's acquisition of its website and events business.
How is Computer Weekly funded?
The publication is available free to qualified IT professionals. Its primary revenue streams are display advertising and recruitment advertising.
What was the Post Office Horizon scandal coverage?
Computer Weekly began reporting on the scandal in 2008. This investigative work was recognized with the "Campaign of the Year" award at the 2024 British Journalism Awards.
Who is the current editor-in-chief?
Bryan Glick has been the editor-in-chief since joining the publication in November 2009.
Does Computer Weekly still offer a digital edition?
Yes, the magazine continues to be available as a free PDF digital edition.