Guardian Labs has committed to a new initiative to improve transparency in its content creation. The organization will now accept funding from third parties, which will support both new projects and content that is already in production. This action is intended to help audiences by increasing transparency around outside financial interests that may shape or influence the content they receive.
The introduction of funding from third parties allows Guardian Labs to explore innovative projects while maintaining a commitment to quality journalism. By accepting these dollars, the organization hopes to stretch their artistic muscles and enhance the experience that they’re able to provide. At the same time, this funding model gives Guardian Labs the freedom to pursue more ambitious projects. These initiatives likely would not have happened without outside financial support.
Funding for New and Existing Projects
In response to inquiries, Guardian Labs has been explicit that the funding will not be used in this way. That includes funding support for new creative collaborative efforts to deliver exciting, fun content. Past projects will stand to gain from this funding as well, enriching their projects depth and reach. Their hope with this double approach is that the resulting overall content landscape will be more interesting and engaging for audiences.
Their demonstration of accepting third-party funding stands as an example of a rising trend within media organizations to develop new revenue streams. By leveraging their network of external resources Guardian Labs can not only make each piece more financially sustainable but fund the creation of even higher caliber original content. This strategy is especially important in an age when advertising dollars have all but dried up for local outlets.
Clear Labeling for Audience Awareness
In order to stay clear with their readers, Guardian Labs will have a system of labeling for sponsored content. Each time viewers go to watch something that has been funded through a specific model, they’ll see one of four unique tags pop up. In fact, these labels “Supported by,” “Advertising partner/Exclusive advertising partner,” “Paid content/Paid for by,” “Advertiser content/from our advertisers” are all too common.
Labeling is the single most important aspect of keeping your audience informed. It reminds them of biases or agendas that may be shaping the content they see. Guardian Labs goes to great lengths to label content that is financially supported by an external entity. This due diligence strengthens ethical journalism and builds long-lasting trust with the public it serves.
Commitment to Ethical Standards
Though it’s widely been perceived as a controversial move, Guardian Labs has made clear its editorial independence and integrity will never be sacrificed for third-party cash. The nonprofit has since focused on creating balanced, fact-based journalism in the public interest. The new funding model, paired with clear labeling, aims to enhance the audience’s understanding of how funding impacts content creation.
Media consumption is ever-evolving. Guardian Labs wholeheartedly adopts innovative practices in ways that remain true to its mission. This bold initiative aims to spark unexpected connections and creativity, while deepening the role of transparency in journalism.