Editorial process
Behind the scenes
of ۴ýConnect®
Creating a blog isn't easy, and it isn't quick. (At least not if you want to do it well.) At ۴ý, we strive to create content that is relevant, informative and inspiring to our audience of lifelong learners. And while all that sounds good on paper, the process is admittedly involved. Here, we pull back the curtain on how we do what we do.
The big idea
To be fair, there are a lot of big ideas, and they come from all over the University. We consider everyone, from ways our degree programs can serve as stepping stones for reaching educational goals, to career advice to help in the job hunt, to alumni stories that inspire everyone to keep striving.
Then we make sure we commit ourselves to creating the highest quality content possible. How? Read on.
The process
Qualified authors
Our robust network of professional writers and industry veterans is just that: real people who have honed their craft over the course of years. Some are leaders in their fields, others are expert researchers. By cultivating strong writers from diverse backgrounds, we can responsibly and authoritatively cover topics that help readers pursue their educational and career goals.
In-depth research
To create accurate and up-to-date content, our writers:
- 𱹾government datafrom the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics and related sources to ensure that statistics, especially around employment data, are both current and factual.
- ٳܻscholarly sourcesand news journals to understand the conversation around a topic.
- Speak tosubject matter expertsfrom ۴ý and beyond to input a relevant industry perspective.
- AI is a powerful tool in research and content development. As with any new tool, however, it must be handled expertly and with transparency. That’s why we require full disclosure from any writer who uses AI during content production so that we may double-check for accuracy and originality. We also request our writers review and align with University policies regarding the use of AI.
Editing and review process
We leverage our staff’sextensive and diverse editorial experienceto make sure every article is coherent and informed.
The three-step review process includes:
- Two, sometimes three, rounds of edits to ensure quality and readability
- Review by subject matter experts to ensure each article is accurate and relevant
- Copyediting (no one likes a typo)
When it comes to our subject matter experts, the college deans have experience and knowledge you can’t find anywhere else. But it isn’t just deans. Alongside the deans, we work closely with fellow subject matter experts in pedagogy, career services, financial aid, student services and accreditation, they lead an editorial advisory committee comprised of their team members that review all of our content with the same eye for detail and accuracy that they apply to our curricula, career tools and student support offerings.
The reward
We told you it wasn't easy or quick to create a blog. But it is possible. Once this process wraps up, we are ready to post. And we do it every day. Why? To inform, engage and delight the people we care the most about: you.
Editorial advisory committee
Meet the department leads of our editorial advisory committee.
