Journalism Transparency and the Public Interest

Publication Date: January 2005

Publisher: Aspen Institute

Author(s): Jon Ziomek

Research Area: Media, telecommunications, and information

Keywords: Best practices; Public trust; Journalism

Type:

Abstract:

The report offers firsthand accounts of how a new ethic of transparency--enabled by developing communications technologies and driven by heightened audience expectations for openness and accountability--is taking hold in American journalism. It also examines the continuing fragmentation of media and media audiences and the effect of fragmentation on journalistic quality as products are tailored toward more individualistic and interactive market niches. Finally, the report urges the field of journalism toward as practical a level of transparency as possible. In doing so, the report offers a set of best practices for media to use as a resource in developing strategies that enhance their relationships with readers, viewers and users, and strengthen their newsroom operations and professional performance.