Research
How we made the Ecosystem Research Toolkit
We applied the basics of product development to design a user-centered, actionable guide for local funders.
Launching today: How to commission an effective local news ecosystem assessment
The Reynolds Journalism Institute (RJI) and the Local News Impact Consortium (LNIC) have launched Commissioning a Local News Ecosystem Assessment: An Operational Toolkit, a resource to streamline research into the forces and players that shape local news.
Take our survey on Hostility, Silence and the Fight for Trust
We need your valuable perspective for a new public national survey about Hostility, Silence and the Fight for Trust.
New research effort examines impact of ‘no comment’ by public figures in news articles — and what can be done about it
After a landmark study of burnout in journalism that concluded in 2024, RJI is once again partnering with research firm SmithGeiger for a national survey of news professionals and — this time — members of the public to learn more about the evolving relationship between the industry and public figures.
Inside the business of obituaries in weekly newspapers
Study shows that paid obits bring in little income but are nearly universal.
A new resource for taking the guesswork out of ecosystem research
These assessments reveal who is informing communities, where gaps persist, and how resources can be deployed more strategically.
Ad dollars from cities or states could be a lifeline for community news media
But efforts to require agencies to take out ads with local news sites have had spotty results.
Introducing ‘Public Policy and Journalism’
State-by-state resources to see how state legislatures are working to keep community journalism alive.
Introducing AskRJI, an experimental chatbot
AskRJI places a wealth of knowledge and resources about community journalism at your fingertips.
Naming a news desert or oasis doesn’t tell the whole story
Researchers are developing more nuanced tools to help newsrooms understand their audiences.