Purple Basil LLC is committed to ensuring the highest level of accuracy in all of our content. Our Fact-Checking Policy outlines the care and diligence we apply to guarantee that the information we present is reliable and trustworthy. We understand that trust is the cornerstone of any journalistic platform, and we take every necessary step to maintain that trust with our audience.
1. Due Accuracy in All Our Content
For any journalistic platform, the trust of its audience is paramount. Trust is built on accurate, fair, and balanced reporting, and we are dedicated to achieving due accuracy in every piece of content we publish. We define “due accuracy” not only as meeting the necessary factual standards but also ensuring that our content aligns with the expectations and needs of our audience. Factors such as the subject, nature of the information, and the expectations of the audience are all considered in our pursuit of due accuracy. We are committed to presenting the most accurate account possible, corroborated by direct stakeholders, and we approach claims with skepticism, questioning assumptions and challenging conventional wisdom.
We acknowledge that uncertainty will always exist despite our best efforts to resolve it. However, the level of stringency we apply to fact-checking varies based on the nature of the story. For instance, the sources required for a positive report on an NGO’s work differ from those needed for an investigative piece. To ensure accuracy, we adhere to the following guidelines:
- We ensure that all information presented is derived from reliable sources based on concrete, corroborated evidence. If direct sources are unavailable, we attribute the information to the platform from which it originates.
- We verify claims, allegations, and information attributed to public authorities or individuals who may have ulterior motives. If we cannot corroborate such information, we will qualify and call out those claims.
- We stand behind the accuracy of the information we publish. If proven otherwise, we make changes as swiftly as possible and inform our audience of the updates.
- We prioritize the trust of our audience. Therefore, we do not intentionally misinform or present fabricated information as fact. When serious errors occur, we publicly acknowledge them and correct them promptly.
- We offer readers a fair opportunity to report inaccuracies or errors on our website through the “Suggest a Correction” segment, which appears at the end of all our published content.
Our journalists are responsible for reporting, writing, and fact-checking all content. Stories undergo multiple levels of scrutiny, including a rigorous internal fact-checking process. Each piece is thoroughly reviewed by one or more of our editors, with the level of editorial oversight depending on the complexity and sensitivity of the issue.
In the case of allegations, we ensure that all concerned parties are contacted, and we independently verify the information to reach the most accurate conclusion.
2. Sourcing Information for Our Content
We follow a strict set of guidelines to source and verify information to ensure the highest level of accuracy:
- Every piece of information is verified with at least two independent sources.
- If only one source is available, we verify the credibility of that source through corroboration with other available evidence.
- We prioritize documentary evidence over human sources whenever possible.
- For surveys, we provide transparency about the data collection methods and how the data was interpreted. If the data is questionable, we communicate any inconsistencies to our audience.
- Our goal is to present accurate information from the outset, rather than publishing it first and addressing potential doubts later.
- We strive to engage directly with stakeholders to provide as much transparency as possible, especially when using anonymous sources. In cases where anonymity is necessary, we explain why and offer readers the context to assess the reliability of the source.
- We share information about sources with our editors to assess whether the information is appropriate for use and how it may be presented. The discussions between reporters and editors regarding anonymous quotations are carefully considered.
- We engage in clear conversations with sources, especially those without prior media experience, to clarify their expectations regarding off-the-record or background information.
- We give individuals the opportunity to respond to any reporting that may portray them negatively, and we transparently explain the efforts we made to seek a response.
We also seek diverse sources, ensuring that we provide a balanced perspective, particularly when covering those who lack access to wide public platforms.
In cases where a reporter is unsure about the accuracy of information, the senior editorial team at Purple Basil LLC is always available for guidance to ensure that no incorrect information is presented to our audience.
3. User-Generated Content
User-generated content presents its own set of challenges, and we do not assume that such material is inherently accurate. We take reasonable steps to verify the authenticity of any user-generated content before incorporating it into our platform. We are particularly cautious when content is provided by individuals or groups with vested interests in the story, and we ensure that all user-generated content is clearly identified as such. Our guidelines for handling user-generated content include:
- We take extra care to verify the reliability of online sources. Just because a source may seem credible does not guarantee its accuracy. We ensure that the material is genuine by confirming its authenticity with the relevant individuals or organizations.
- We distinguish fact from rumor, particularly on social media, where misinformation can spread rapidly. We are cautious of material that may be distorted—whether intentionally or unintentionally—and ensure that such content is clearly marked.
- If user-generated content is used to corroborate a fact, we apply additional scrutiny, particularly if the material originates from social media or other online sources. We qualify and call out any material that was not gathered directly by our team.
If you have any questions or would like more information about our fact-checking policy, please don’t hesitate to contact us at februaryws2023@gmail.com.
At Purple Basil LLC, we are committed to providing accurate, fair, and reliable content, ensuring that our readers can trust the information we present. For more details, visit https://purplebasilllc.com.