It's true that information about virtually every topic under the sun can be found on the internet. And since it was born, the internet has become the go-to source for millions of people around the world who look for information on a daily basis. But while it only takes seconds to find what you're looking for, how can you be sure that what you're reading is credible?There are those information-seekers who will use whatever they find online in their research. But still others believe that even the slightest inaccuracy in online data is enough cause not to use it. Of course, no one can say they know everything about every topic. So how can one possibly evaluate the credibility of all of the information they find online?
Everyone Is an Author
The great thing about the internet is that it has brought together every culture, perspective, belief and expert into one shared space. Getting complementary information about anything is usually just a few clicks away. But along with all of the true knowledge that's out there, the internet has also given everyone the opportunity to become an author, which means that, in addition to the millions of credible sources, there are also many that aren't credible.
And the ability for everyone to become an author also means that anyone can be an editor, because online, the traditional process of review and revision simply does not apply.
Assessing Credibility: Five Ways to Tell
When Was The Information Published?Knowing when online material was published can be a great indicator of its accuracy. But another way to tell is to determine when the online document was last updated. If the update occurred recently and the information is still valid when you're reading it, these are both indicators that the information you've found is credible.
Is The Information Usable?
If your information source allows for easy navigation to, and reading and using of the information that's there, this can be a positive sign of credibility. So too can be clearly-explained links and a professional look to the web site.
Who Wrote It?
Who wrote the information you've discovered online? An author name or contact information should be readily available so that you can get in touch with your questions. Does the author state that they are associated with a credible company, reveal an education in journalism or other writer's field? Any and all author information you find can be used for further research into a source's credibility.
Why Was The Information Published?
While you're reading the information you've found online, try and see if you can detect any bias, as this could mean the author is trying to sway your viewpoint. Another way to gauge credibility is to determine whether what you're reading is an advertisement.
What Company Was The Publisher?
As important as the author's background is the one of the company who published the information. Try and discover whether or not the published information comes from a known organization or institution. If the document was published by the author themselves, it may contain more personal opinion than objectivity.
Keeping Information Credible
If you are an author, and want to be taken seriously as such, then the best way to gain credibility online is to be credible. This means being transparent to your audience by disclosing all of your sources for information, just like an offline journalist would. When publishing online, your online relationships will matter.
There are many good sources online for the information you want to publish, but in order to create a viable well of sources, a relationship with them must be established and maintained. Updating already-posted information and always placing a date on the content you publish will establish you as a credible source to those who visit your site for information.
Citations:
Ruth Suelemente
About the Guest Author:
Guest author Ruth Suelemente writes on a variety of subjects, particularly in the area of technology. She has contributed to http://www.highspeed-internet-providers.com/, an online resource dedicated to helping consumers find the best internet provider in their area. You can also find Ruth on Google.
Guest author Ruth Suelemente writes on a variety of subjects, particularly in the area of technology. She has contributed to http://www.highspeed-internet-providers.com/, an online resource dedicated to helping consumers find the best internet provider in their area. You can also find Ruth on Google.