If you are going to read one discussion of the collapse of Science Online, you need to read our own Eva Amsen’s analysis on her personal blog:
When I went to Science Online the last time, in 2014, it was very different from that first time in 2007. There were communication specialists and YouTubers and startup founders and publishers. I was there on behalf of a publisher. My trip had been paid for. I couldn’t just have fun – I had to work. It was different now. – Eva Amsen
The Finch and Pea 