Understand what your sources want
Journalism depends on sources, but sources also have interests, loyalties and reputations to protect. A person can be honest while offering only the part of the truth that suits them. Understanding that position is part of reporting, not a reason to give up on sources.
The essentials
Recognise the imbalance. Ministries, businesses and advocacy organisations may have experienced communications teams, while the reporter works alone under time pressure. Being skilled at interviews does not make a source disinterested. Preparation and method help you understand the version you are being offered rather than simply reproduce it.
Use the two questions associated with the Project for Excellence in Journalism. What are this source’s interests or agenda? How might those interests shape the view they give of the facts? The question is more subtle than whether the person is lying. Accurate information can still be selective or arranged to protect a particular position.
Then seek a corrective source: someone with independent knowledge who can challenge, complete or qualify the account. Do not assume the truth sits halfway between two statements. Establish what each person knows directly and what evidence supports the claim. The response to a source’s bias is neither automatic distrust nor blind confidence. It is further reporting that gives the audience a fuller understanding.
Take it to the field
For each source, note what they know directly and what they hope to achieve. Find an independent voice that can challenge or complete the account, without assuming the truth must lie halfway between competing statements.
Your turn
Choose three recent press releases, from government, business and an NGO. Answer the two questions about interests and viewpoint for each, then identify a corrective source you would consult before writing.