Computing Magazine: A Legacy of UK IT Journalism
In the rapidly evolving world of information technology, few publications have witnessed as much transformation as Computing. Established as a cornerstone of the UK's professional landscape, it holds the distinction of being the longest continuously published magazine for IT professionals in the United Kingdom.
From its origins as a society journal to its current status as a digital-first resource, Computing has mirrored the growth of the computer industry itself, evolving its editorial focus to meet the changing needs of business and technical leaders.
Key Facts
- Founded: 1973 as the official magazine of the British Computer Society.
- Status: Longest continuously published IT professional magazine in the UK.
- Current Owner: The Channel Company (acquired in April 2022).
- Format: Transitioned from a print weekly to a digital-only publication.
- Primary Focus: A blend of technical and business-oriented IT content.
The Evolution of Publication and Ownership
Launched in 1973 and originally published by Haymarket Publishing, Computing began as the official voice of the British Computer Society. For much of its print history, it operated as a controlled circulation publication—meaning it was distributed free of charge to members of the British Computer Society and other accredited computing professionals, with production costs funded primarily through advertising.
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The magazine's ownership has shifted through several major media entities over the decades. In the 1970s, it was purchased by the Dutch publisher VNU Business Media, alongside Accountancy Age, to establish a UK presence. In 2007, VNU Business Publications was acquired by Incisive Media. Most recently, in April 2022, The Channel Company acquired Computing, as well as CRN UK and Channel Partner Insight, from Incisive Media.
Editorial Shift and Market Position
Within the UK trade press, Computing has long stood alongside Computer Weekly as a primary source of industry news. Historically, a clear distinction existed between the two: Computing targeted business-focused readers, while Computer Weekly provided deeper technical coverage. This divide began to blur in the late 1980s.
By 1998, IT Week entered the market to fill the gap in technology-focused business coverage. In response to these shifts, Computing eventually adapted its strategy to pursue a dual agenda, catering to both technical specialists and business executives.
The Digital Transition
The magazine embraced the digital era in early 2007 with a comprehensive relaunch of its website. This update introduced audio and video content and emphasized reader interactivity through the introduction of approximately a dozen regular bloggers, some of whose work was cross-published in the print edition.
The decline of print followed a gradual trajectory. On June 10, 2010, the publication frequency shifted from weekly to bi-weekly. By the mid-2010s, the print edition ceased publication entirely, and Computing became available exclusively online.
Leadership and Editorial History
The editorial direction of Computing has been shaped by several key figures. Bryan Glick served as a long-term editor before departing in November 2009 to become the editor-in-chief of Computer Weekly. He was succeeded in January 2010 by Abigail Warakar, who served until January 2012.
Following Warakar's resignation, Chris Middleton—a former editor of Computer Business Review and former deputy editor of Computing—stepped in as interim editor. Stuart Sumner took the helm in July 2012, and most recently, Tom Allen, who joined the publication in 2017 and previously served as deputy editor of Display Daily, became editor in October 2022.
| Period/Date | Event/Owner | Key Detail |
|---|---|---|
| 1973 | Haymarket Publishing | Launched as official BCS magazine |
| 1970s | VNU Business Media | Acquired to launch UK business |
| 2007 | Incisive Media | Acquired VNU Business Publications |
| June 2010 | Print Schedule Change | Shifted from weekly to bi-weekly |
| Mid-2010s | Digital Transition | Print publication ended |
| April 2022 | The Channel Company | Current owner |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Computing magazine?
Computing is the longest continuously published magazine for IT professionals in the UK, originally launched in 1973 as the official publication of the British Computer Society.
Who currently owns Computing?
Computing is currently owned by The Channel Company, which acquired it from Incisive Media in April 2022.
Is there still a print version of Computing?
No. The print edition transitioned to a bi-weekly schedule in 2010 and ended publication entirely in the mid-2010s. It is now available exclusively online.
How did Computing differ from Computer Weekly historically?
Historically, Computing focused on business-oriented readers, whereas Computer Weekly catered to those seeking more technical coverage, though this distinction dissolved in the late 1980s.
Who is the current editor of Computing?
Tom Allen has served as the editor since October 2022.