CNN is shutting down its New York City-based graphics department, centralizing all graphics staffers in its Atlanta headquarters.

A spokeswoman for CNN explained the decision in a statement:

Our current graphics software can no longer meet our business needs, and the new technology requires operation from a central location. Consequently, we are moving all graphic positions to Atlanta, where the majority of the graphics staff are based already.

In addition to the technological improvement, we think this new structure will be helpful to create consistency across all of our platforms.

A tipster tells TVNewser that NYC-based graphics staffers are being offered positions in Atlanta, or will receive buyouts from the channel. Another tipster adds the graphics unit at CNN in Washington, DC got the same notice.