It is becoming increasingly clear that a business model built on offering free online content supported by advertising isn’t working. It’s economically unworkable – at least as the only way to generate revenue – and unless something more viable emerges, the disappearance of magazines and newspapers will continue to happen.

The cracks within the free model are starting to become more obvious. The Economist, for example, has announced that articles older than 90 days old will only be available to subscribers. It’s not a radical move but a small step towards embracing a business model that makes sense for The Economist and its readers.

The Economist’s move comes shortly after Gourmet magazine closed on Monday after 70 years in business. It will now continue as an online-only entity.

While newspapers will continue to struggle with free vs. fee, my sense is the magazine industry will start to embrace fee. It’s a market that is more fee-friendly because many magazines are not producing content that’s a commodity. In many cases, the writing offers unique perspective and insight, which people should be willing to pay to read.