Scrollytelling
This introductory explanation will use location data selected by the reader. The chosen region will serve as an example to illustrate the data available in the dashboard. Additionally, three other locations from different categories will be highlighted. The explanation will conclude with a zoom-out, inviting users to explore the dashboard further.
Dashboard
Once the explanation is complete, users will be able to navigate the map using interactive controls. This map is based on extensive data collection conducted by FOPEA, the Argentine Forum for Journalism. Investigators from various regions of Argentina spent months gathering information on the state of local media. They meticulously compiled a list of all the news organizations they could find and asked the owners about the size of the newsrooms, their primary sources of revenue, their main areas of coverage, and over 23 related questions. With this information, the researchers also produced qualitative reports on the state of journalism in each province in Argentina. Our primary challenge was to develop an interactive interface that reflected the depth of this thorough investigative work.
Goal
Identify news deserts, areas lacking media coverage or where existing outlets are overly reliant on the government in various forms, leading to precarious conditions. In such environments, local journalism either does not exist or is extremely weak. This objective provides empirical data and scientific foundations to understand the dangers faced by media and journalists, particularly those in less developed regions of the country. It highlights the unequal access to critical news, which is essential for citizens to make informed decisions. This research positions Argentina among the countries that have recognized these "zones of silence," paving the way for measures aimed at promoting journalism and preventing further decline in media quality.
Methodology
The project features an interactive map designed to help users explore the information landscape of Argentina, focusing specifically on 'news deserts', regions lacking sufficient and high-quality professional journalism. This interactive map includes overlays, filters, and search boxes, allowing users to easily find and compare information about the regions that interest them most. Before starting this exploratory experience, users will see a brief explanatory section presented in a scrollytelling format that introduces the concepts of deserts, semi-deserts, forests, and semi-forests.
Credits
Irene Benito, Data and Journalist Coordinator;
Rodrigo Menegat, Data Journalist;
Fernanda Didini, Art Direction;
Vallery Nascimento, Product Designer;
Tiago Maranhao, Developer;
Alberto Cairo, Data and Design Consultant;
Juan Manuel Lucero, Data and Design Consultant;
Juan Manuel Lucero, Data and Design Consultant;
Fernando Ruiz, FOPEA Former President;
Julio Perotti, FOPEA Secretary.