I really appreciated Adam Westbrook's "check-list," because, in light of many conversations I've had with colleagues, it has become more and more apparent to me that journalism needs to sell in more ways than one. It's not just about being accurate anymore (because, with the ability to link, theoretically, it's tough to not at least fake being accurate). It's about being flashy, selling your brand, and having a purpose. No one is going to read an article just because it is factual: there needs to be something that captures the attention of the ADD-rampant masses.
...which is why I decided to look up other "chceck lists" that come up when you "Google search" "journalism checklist." And here's.... what I found (accuracy on accuracy on lack of making your article sell). Maybe that is why journalism is a "poor man's profession"....
1. Santa Barbara College-- breaks down checklists by specific field (investigative, sports, etc.)
2. Business Journalism-- more like an English class outline than a checklist; focuses on grammar
3. Stuff Journalists Like-- Really liked this one--focuses on the reality of being a journalist-- but more of a satire than a "checklist." (highly reccomend a read)
4. Poynter-- EXCELLENT start--talking about importance of checklists though anectdotal example of Captain Sully Sullerberg's co-pilot-- but then it's the same grammar outline as #2
5. The Ethical Journalism Initiative-- nice focus on checklists to have when you enter a new newsroom.. but mostly about the news environment (and remember we're trying to see beyond that!)
6. The Buttry Diary-- LOVE it. Excellent analysis by indy blogger about how linking sources might have saved the Mant'e Teo Girlfriend Affair. But not a checklist. Wah.
7. Columbia Journalism Review-- Again, focus on the importance of checklists. Not an actual one.
8. Accuracy Checklist-- The same outline. Again. Can't tell if I feel like a broken record or a Buzzfeed article.
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