Ohsfbmedia.com Editorial Standards & Practices for shared reporting
Purpose
These standards outline how Ohsfbmedia.com ensures the quality, integrity, and trustworthiness of the content created and shared by its members.
All participants in the collaborative agree to follow these principles when producing or sharing content.
CORE PRINCIPLES
1. Editorial Independence
- We produce journalism that is free from undue influence.
- Editorial decisions are made by the digital editor, not funders or outside interests
- We avoid real or perceived conflicts of interest
- We disclose any relevant funding or partnerships
2. Accuracy
- We strive to get the facts right.
- Verify information before publishing
- Use reliable sources
- Provide context so information is not misleading
- Correct errors clearly and promptly
3. Fairness
- We treat people and perspectives responsibly.
- Seek relevant viewpoints
- Represent people’s words and actions accurately
- Give subjects a reasonable opportunity to respond when appropriate
4. Transparency
- We help audiences understand our work.
- Clearly identify sources whenever possible
- Label opinion, analysis, or sponsored content
- Explain decisions when necessary
- Disclose partnerships or funding
5. Accountability
- We stand behind our work.
- Respond to questions or concerns from the public
- Correct mistakes promptly
- Learn from feedback and improve
6. Inclusiveness
- We aim to reflect the communities we serve.
- Include diverse voices and perspectives
- Be mindful of language and representation
- Cover issues that matter to underserved communities
HOW WE APPLY THESE PRINCIPLES
1. Fact-Checking
- Verify key facts before publishing
- Confirm sensitive or controversial claims with multiple sources when possible
- Corrections
- Fix errors quickly and clearly
- Be transparent about what changed
- Use of Sources
- Use named sources whenever possible
- Use anonymous sources only when necessary and explain why
- Content Sharing (Collaborative-Specific)
- Shared content should not be altered in ways that change meaning
- Proper attribution must always be included
- Significant edits require permission
2. Conflicts of Interest
- Avoid situations that could compromise credibility
- Disclose any potential conflicts
3. Social Media
- Apply the same standards as published content
- Avoid misleading or sensational framing
- Correct errors publicly when needed
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