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"Shift by MSNBC", which aired in 2015, was a pioneering endeavor by the cable news network MSNBC to cater to the dedication and enthusiasm of a digital audience who favor online media over traditional cable news content. The show was a novel, digital-only spin-off that prioritized streaming over broadcasting, underpinning the changes in news consumption patterns at the time. It signified a strategic transition and adaptation to the internet era, marking MSNBC's venture into digital-first broadcasting.

Shift by MSNBC was more than just a regular cable news program, it was a bouquet of niche multimedia presentations, focusing on a wide array of topics. These ranged from politics, technology, and global news, to pop culture, documentaries, and innovative original programming. The show capitalized on short-form storytelling techniques coupled with long-form journalism, thereby catering to various audience tastes and needs. The format broke away from the traditional hard-news and conversation-driven programming seen on the main network, and instead, ventured into a diverse, richly layered form of multimedia journalism.

The show enlisted an impressive roster of MSNBC's finest from print, web, and television to bring their depth of knowledge and reporting expertise to Shift. These journalists helm their shows, delivering exclusive content on themes they are passionate about and have a deep well of knowledge in. Notable names included Luke Russert - a renowned political correspondent, Seema Iyer - a former criminal defense attorney and legal analyst, and Beth Fouhy – a seasoned politics expert. This diverse mix of reporters and experts made for a level of engagement and perspective that was distinctive to Shift.

One example of pioneering multimedia content was Road Map - a globe-trotting geopolitical segment hosted by MSNBC Foreign Correspondent Ayman Mohyeldin. This show offered viewers a deep-dive contextual analysis of international news stories, well beyond the basic headlines. “The Docket”, another exemplary segment, focused more on the interface of law and justice, helmed by Seema Iyer.

Moreover, Shift by MSNBC followed a flexible and fluid programming schedule, unlike typical cable news programming. It was live from Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. ET, although the platform was accessible 24/7, fitting comfortably into the 'on-demand' culture of the internet age, allowing audiences to catch up on missed shows at their own convenience. Individual videos were also available for those who wanted quick news updates or short takes on their favorite subjects.

Equipped with a visually elegant and minimalistic design, the digital interface greatly benefited the user experience. It was designed with a clean layout and allowed simple navigation, encouraging viewers to effortlessly move from one story or show to another. Social media functionality was integral to Shift. The inclusion of social sharing features allowed viewers to share their favorite segments directly to their social media profiles, thus extending the audience reach.

Interestingly, MSNBC recognized the importance of audience interaction and social commentary in Shift's programming strategy. This was evident in their inclusion of live chats during shows, where viewers were encouraged to share their thoughts, ask questions, and interact with other viewers. Also, the #ShiftonShift hashtag invited users to share their opinions on the news of the day on social platforms like Twitter.

In conclusion, Shift by MSNBC was not just another news show, but an exemplar of how traditional media houses adapted to the rise of digital media. It emphasized a dynamic blend of diverse programming genres with interactive elements aimed at the evolving needs and tastes of the digital audience. MSNBC’s Shift was a step ahead of its time, understanding the transition towards digital platforms and the changing pattern of news consumption.