steps I will take in building a robust solutions practice in a newsroom:
- Define our goals. What do you hope to achieve with your solutions practice? Do you want to help readers find solutions to their problems? Do you want to hold institutions accountable? Do you want to build community? Once you know your goals, you can start to develop a plan for how to achieve them.
- Identify our audience. Who are you trying to reach with your solutions journalism? What are their needs and interests? Once you know your audience, you can start to tailor your content to their needs.
- Find experts. Solutions journalism often requires the expertise of people who work in the field you are covering. Build relationships with experts who can help you understand the issues and find solutions.
- Be creative. Solutions journalism doesn't have to be boring. Get creative with your storytelling and find new ways to engage your audience.
- Measure our impact. It's important to track the impact of your solutions journalism. This will help you see what's working and what's not, and it will help you make improvements to your practice.