VaNews to begin including online-only content
When it began aggregating news in June 2011, VPAP has included only those news articles that appear in the print edition of newspapers.
That is about to change.
Starting Monday, VaNews also will include "original news reporting" found online from broadcast TV and radio, online-only newspapers and blogs. In making this change, the VPAP Board of Directors adopted a policy that recognizes innovations in online reporting, while preserving a high standard for what is considered "news."
ONLINE NEWS POLICY
Frequently Asked Questions
What non-print newspaper content are you likely to include in VaNews?
You're most likely to see original news reporting from broadcast TV and radio stations and from well-known online-only organizations such as Politico and The Washington Times.
VaNews also will consider content from other online-news sources and blogs that fit our definition of "original news reporting." The three-part test for "original news reporting" is:
- Evidence that the reporter attended an event or conducted his/her own interviews.
- A narrative structure that consists of more than (1) a string of social media postings, (2) excerpts from other media sources, or (3) video and audio clips without additional context provided.
- Consists of more than the reporter’s analysis or commentary, and is primarily news oriented.
Where will the online-only news articles appear?
Toward the bottom of the report will be new sections: "TV/Radio" and "Online News." The online news articles will go here, regardless of topic.
How will VPAP decide what online-only news to include?
VPAP will consider online-only news that appear in the following places:
- Google News search for "Virginia news" -- items found on the first pages.Articles emailed
- Browsing the websites of online providers that routinely generate "original news reporting" about Virginia government and politics.
- Articles emailed for consideration to vanewscontent@vpap.org
What about blogs that are overtly partisan?
Blogs items that fit the definition of "original news reporting" will be included. The policy recognizes that we now live in an era in which there are news providers that cater to specific political viewpoints. Online news providers (including blogs) will need to meet the following criteria:
Published daily or weekly for at least the past six consecutive months.
- Has in place an editor review process that includes fact checking and verification of sources
- Works independently of any government, industry or advocacy organization
- Does not engage in lobbying of the General Assembly or executive branch.
- May not accept news articles placed for payment, unless clearly indicated.
Sept. 29, 2016