[Collaborative Name] Editorial Standards & Practices for shared reporting
Purpose
These standards outline how [Collaborative Name] 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.
Mission (Optional)
[Insert your collaborative’s mission or purpose]
CORE PRINCIPLES
1. Editorial Independence
We produce journalism that is free from undue influence.
Editorial decisions are made by journalists, 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
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
Conflicts of Interest
Avoid situations that could compromise credibility
Disclose any potential conflicts
Social Media
Apply the same standards as published content
Avoid misleading or sensational framing
Correct errors publicly when needed
When in Doubt
If you are unsure how to apply these standards:
👉 Consult with collaborative partners or project leads
👉 Prioritize accuracy, fairness, and transparency
👉 These standards are a starting point and should be adapted to fit your collaborative
Don’t go it alone
You don’t have to figure this out from scratch. We’ve worked through the same challenges—structure, trust, participation, momentum—and we help other collaboratives do the same.
👉 GSNC: Strategy, facilitation, and collaborative design
👉 Plucky: Tools to share content and scale your work
Start here: www.collaborativenh.org/consulting