At the intersection of technology and community journalism, the Reynolds Journalism Institute Innovation team is transforming how newsrooms serve their audiences. From source diversity trackers to advising newsrooms on AI-powered workflows, RJI helps journalists and media organizations find new ways to advance their work through open source resources, programs, workshops, and other tools.
The Institute spoke with Kat Duncan, director of innovation at RJI, on how journalists can improve innovation within their newsrooms.
What does innovation look like in newsrooms right now?
Duncan: We collaborate with newsrooms across the country to help them innovate and experiment. The projects we work on with them vary from producing zines to testing AI tools, building automations, or creating new community-centered structures for public events.
We see innovation as any needed change in how we help newsrooms serve our communities that strengthens, deepens, and improves their ability to do so.
Which emerging technologies are you most excited about, and why?
Duncan: I think news games are underutilized in how we help our communities understand information and make choices that affect their lives. There are some great games out there that really break down complex topics in a way that makes them engaging, informative, and relevant to the person playing them, but these games are usually one-off special projects.
I’d love to see our industry embrace more game building as a way to help our communities understand complex issues and make informed choices.
How can someone effectively pitch an innovative idea within their newsroom?
Duncan: I think one misconception with innovation is that trying something new requires a huge lift that costs tons of money, time, and/or hiring new staff. I take our partners through a process that helps them identify low-lift but high-impact ideas that they can embark upon in their newsrooms without exorbitant funds or additional staff.
I think to effectively pitch an innovative idea, you need to have a few key facts ready for your editor/manager: How long will it take; how much will it cost; what staff/resources will be involved; and, of course, what is the possible benefit for your newsroom. It may engage underserved communities or add a new revenue stream. It can be long-term or short term.
One great part about experimentation with a brand-new idea or tool is that you can plan the structure of implementation with a specific goal in mind that helps you assess success and impact.
What advice do you have for newsrooms or freelance journalists working with a limited budget when exploring new technologies?
Duncan: I think one of the best developments of the last decade in journalism has been the flourishing of journalism support organizations like RJI that build tools, training, and resources for journalists. Everything we build is free and accessible to all, and we build with the small newsroom and independent journalist in mind.
There are tons of resources out there to help you in your experimentation! If you aren’t sure where to find them, I’m always here to help.