Editorial board

Definition

An editorial board is a group of individuals responsible for overseeing the content, direction, and policies of a publication, typically in print or online media. They play a crucial role in ensuring the integrity and quality of the journalism produced, particularly when it comes to investigative stories that require careful consideration and ethical standards. The members of an editorial board usually include senior editors and experienced journalists who collaborate to guide the overall vision and mission of the publication.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The editorial board plays a key role in determining which investigative stories are pursued based on their relevance, impact, and newsworthiness.
2. Members of an editorial board are typically experienced journalists who bring diverse perspectives and expertise to discussions about content strategy.
3. The decisions made by the editorial board can influence public opinion by shaping narratives around important issues through their investigative reporting.
4. Editorial boards may also issue formal statements or opinions on significant issues, thereby engaging with the community and asserting their publication's stance.
5. Collaboration within an editorial board fosters an environment where rigorous debate can lead to more thorough vetting of investigative stories before they go to print.

Review Questions

• How does an editorial board contribute to the quality and integrity of investigative journalism?
  • An editorial board contributes to the quality and integrity of investigative journalism by overseeing the selection and development of stories that meet ethical standards. Their collective experience allows them to identify potential issues, ensure rigorous fact-checking, and uphold journalistic values. By guiding the editorial direction, they help prevent biased reporting and promote accountability in the newsroom.
• Discuss the relationship between an editorial board and the editor-in-chief regarding content decisions.
  • The relationship between an editorial board and the editor-in-chief is collaborative yet hierarchical. While the editorial board provides guidance on content policies and story selection, the editor-in-chief makes final decisions on what gets published. This dynamic ensures that diverse viewpoints are considered while maintaining a clear chain of command in editorial matters. Together, they work towards aligning the publication’s goals with its reporting practices.
• Evaluate how an editorial board's decisions can shape public discourse around significant issues in society.
  • The decisions made by an editorial board can significantly shape public discourse by determining which investigative stories are brought to light. Their ability to prioritize certain narratives over others influences what information reaches the public and how it is framed. By addressing crucial societal issues through their reporting, they can drive conversations, challenge power structures, and hold entities accountable. This impact highlights the responsibility that editorial boards have in fostering informed communities.

Related terms

editor-in-chief: The editor-in-chief is the highest-ranking editor in a publication, responsible for making final decisions on content and direction.

fact-checking: Fact-checking is the process of verifying the accuracy of information before publication, often overseen by the editorial board to maintain journalistic integrity.

editorial policy: An editorial policy is a set of guidelines established by a publication that outlines its values, ethics, and standards for content creation.