For journalists and reporters, managing a multitude of tasks, sources, and deadlines is paramount. This Action Items Template provides a structured approach to capture, prioritize, and track all critical follow-ups, ensuring no lead is missed and every story detail is accounted for under tight deadline pressure.
Story/Project Details
Investigative Report: City Council Corruption
Enter the main title or topic of the story or project.Jane Doe, John Smith (Researcher)
Identify the primary reporter and any contributing team members.MM/DD/YYYY - 5 PM EST
Specify the final submission or publication deadline.The Daily Chronicle
Note the media outlet or publication for this story.Interview Follow-ups
Mayor Thompson
Record the name of the individual interviewed.10/26/2023
Enter the date the interview took place.Verify quote on budget figures; Request official statement on policy change.
List specific tasks related to this interview, such as fact-checking or additional requests.10/28/2023
Set a deadline for completing this interview-related action.Pending/Complete/Blocked
Update the current status of the action item.Source Verification/Research
Claim that 'X' amount of funds were diverted.
Describe the specific piece of information or claim requiring verification.Cross-reference with public financial records; Contact independent auditor.
Outline the steps or sources needed to confirm the information.Research Assistant
Indicate who is responsible for this verification task.High/Medium/Low - Critical for story accuracy
Assign a priority level to this research task.Editorial Meeting Actions
10/25/2023 - Weekly Editorial Pitch
Note the date and main topic of the editorial meeting.Draft headline options for lead story; Follow up with photo desk on imagery.
List tasks assigned during the meeting.Editor-in-Chief / Photo Editor
Identify the person responsible for completing the action.10/27/2023
Specify the date by which the action should be completed.Press Conference Follow-ups
Mayor's Q3 Economic Update
Enter the name or topic of the press conference and its host.10/24/2023
Record the date of the press conference.Clarification on 'new infrastructure spending' details.
Note the specific question asked or topic of interest during the conference.Request detailed budget breakdown from Mayor's office; Interview City Planner.
Detail the follow-up actions needed based on the conference.Open/Contacted/Awaiting Response
Track the current progress of the follow-up.How to Use This Template
- Open the 'Action Items Template for Journalists & Reporters' in CraftNote.
- Fill in the 'Story/Project Details' section for each new story or investigation you begin.
- As interviews conclude or new information emerges, add specific 'Interview Follow-ups' and 'Source Verification/Research' tasks with due dates.
- During or after editorial meetings and press conferences, populate the respective sections with assigned actions and responsible parties.
- Regularly review and update the 'Status' fields to maintain an up-to-date overview of all pending tasks and ensure timely story completion.
Customization Tips
- Duplicate the 'Interview Follow-ups' section for each major source if you have multiple, complex interviews requiring distinct sets of actions.
- Add a 'Multimedia Requirements' section with fields for 'Image Request', 'Video Footage', and 'Graphic Design' if your stories frequently involve diverse media assets.
- Create a 'Legal Review' section with fields like 'Counsel Contacted', 'Documents Sent', and 'Legal Feedback' for sensitive investigative pieces requiring legal oversight.