Accurate content builds trust, supports the institution’s credibility, and ensures the website remains a reliable resource for all users. Follow these steps to review and verify page content:

Review for Accuracy

  • Check all names, dates, titles, statistics, and geographical locations for correctness. 
  • Identify and flag outdated or stale information, such as past events, old faculty titles, or old programs. 

Key Questions to Ask:

  • Are all details factually correct? 
  • Are quotes attributed to the right individuals? 
  • Are classes, dates, and other time-sensitive details current? 

Fact-Checking Tips

Always double-check the basics:

  • Spelling of names and places: Verify against official directories, organizational websites, or published materials.
    • Example: A professor’s name may be misspelled on an event page—check against the department’s directory. 
  • Titles and affiliations: Confirm these with organizational charts, email signatures, or professional profiles. 
    • Example: Ensure a faculty member’s listed title matches their official appointment. 
  • Gender and preferred pronouns: Use the individual’s preferred terms, referencing profiles, biographies, or direct confirmation. 
  • Dates: Check dates for accuracy, especially for past events, deadlines, or historical facts. 
    • Example: Ensure “Fall 2023” aligns with the correct calendar months for the institution. 
  • Numbers and statistics: Double-check figures, especially if small errors can significantly change meaning. Example: Ensure a fundraising goal of $1.5 million isn’t accidentally listed as $1.5 billion. 
  • Geographical locations: Verify that place names are accurate and spelled correctly. 

Avoid Common Errors:

  • Memory reliance: Avoid relying on memory. Look up facts, even for seemingly straightforward details. 
  • Assumptions: Verify facts, especially those that “seem obvious.” 
    • Example: A link labeled “campus map” should be checked to ensure it points to the current map, not an outdated version. 
  • Second-hand sources: Avoid using unverifiable secondary accounts. Prioritize information directly from the source. 
    • Example: Use the original research paper or official website, not a third-party blog summarizing the information. 

Resources: Fact checking your content


Red Flags to Watch For 

Be cautious with these content types: 
  • Sweeping statements: Avoid vague claims like “experts say” unless backed by credible research or citations. 
  • Absolute claims: Avoid phrases like “the only” or “the first” unless you can confirm with reliable evidence. 
    • Example: “Our college is the first to launch this program” should link to documentation supporting the claim. 
  • Contradictory advice: If a statement conflicts with known sources, cite reputable evidence. 
    • Example: A new dietary recommendation should include references from authoritative health organizations. 
  • Potentially harmful content: Be especially careful with medical, legal, or investment-related information. Erroneous details could harm users or lead to legal liability. 
    • Example: A health article claiming a treatment has “no side effects” requires strong evidence from peer-reviewed studies. 

Tip from Training:

  • Err on the side of caution with sensitive topics. Consult MarCom for support with any questionable claims.  

Identifying Reputable and Stable Sources

When verifying or sourcing information, ensure the content meets these criteria: 
  • Ensure all links point to reliable sources, such as institutional websites, peer-reviewed research, or reputable news outlets. 
  • Avoid linking to user-generated platforms unless absolutely necessary (e.g., Wikipedia for general context). 
  • Test all links to confirm they work and lead to the correct destination. 

Reputable Sources: 

  • Credibility: Is the source well-known for accuracy and reliability? Examples include .edu, .gov, and reputable .org websites. 
  • Authority: Does the source have expertise in the subject? Peer-reviewed journals, official organizations, and industry leaders are strong examples. 
  • Transparency: Can the claims be traced to clear, documented evidence? Avoid sources that lack citations or references. 

Stable Sources: 

  • Longevity: Use links that are unlikely to break or become outdated quickly (e.g., avoid temporary news links). 
  • Updates: Ensure the source is maintained and regularly updated. 
    • Example: Link to the college’s official calendar instead of an event-specific landing page. 
  • Trusted Platforms: Use trusted digital libraries or databases instead of user-generated platforms like forums or wikis. 

Examples of Reputable Sources: 

  • Government and educational sites (e.g., .gov or .edu). 
  • Authoritative organizations (e.g., WHO, IEEE). 
  • Well-known publications with rigorous editorial standards.  

Tools and Collaboration 

  • Use DubBot to identify broken links, spelling errors, and accessibility issues. 
  • Consult your MarCom liaison for complex issues or to verify sensitive content. 

Tip from Training: 


Regular Review Cycles 

  • Fact-check content as part of regular review cycles (e.g., quarterly or annually). 
  • Flag outdated content for revision or removal during these reviews. More Information & Resources Fact Checking Your Content