From design to back-end functionality, the California Watch site had to embody the "new journalism" ethos that reflected their goals and expertise in pushing for more and better community-powered journalism, while emphasizing the team's outstanding investigative reporting on important issues in California.
A new initiative to provide in-depth investigative reporting, combined with guides and resources for citizens to get involved, lights a path towards "new journalism."
The home page was designed to draw people in to the site's rich content, without cluttering up the page.
The main topic areas have their own featured stories — a mix of investigative articles, blog posts and data sets.
The Resources area provides visitors with leads, tips and more for their own local investigations and reporting.
Additional featured stories are touted in a block below articles.
Overall the site as a clean look.
Result
The site has been a huge success. In November 2010, California Watch won the ONA 2010 Award for General Excellence in Online Journalism.
