Newspaper Editors’ Interactions with Journalistic Serendipity

Making newsworthy news: The integral role of creativity and verification in the human information behavior that drives news story creation

“…Several studies have explored the intersection of information acquisition and creativity in the work of, for example, designers (Damen & Toh, 2019; Makri et al, 2019; Mougenot et al, 2007), scientists (Bawden, 1986), theater artists (Medaille, 2010), and music composers (Eaglestone et al, 2007). In a journalism context, Bird‐Meyer and Erdelez (2021) highlighted the role of creativity in journalists' serendipitous encounters with information, as “the concept of creativity is critical in the exploration of journalistic story ideation in how environment and structure help inspire serendipity” (p. 439). Creativity can be considered both a driver and outcome of information acquisition, reflected in both process and product—i.e., what is created with the information found (Makri & Warwick, 2010).…”

“…Information acquisition and use provides “a foundation for creative work” (Medaille, 2010, p. 344) as information is transformed into new products. In this way, while the context of news organizations might constrain journalistic autonomy (e.g., stories are likely to be assigned by editors rather than encountered by journalists), creativity is considered a key element in story idea generation (Bird‐Meyer & Erdelez, 2021).…”