Artificial intelligence is rapidly transforming industries, and journalism is no exception. At WCPO 9, the integration of AI is approached with care, transparency, and a steadfast commitment to editorial integrity. If you’ve noticed disclaimers about AI on their web articles, it’s a sign of their dedication to keeping readers informed about how technology shapes their news experience.
The Human Heart of Every Story
Every story at WCPO 9 begins and ends with a journalist. From the initial pitch to interviews and fact-gathering, humans remain at the core of the storytelling process. AI is seen as a tool to enhance—not replace—the work of dedicated reporters and editors.
Where AI Makes a Difference
WCPO 9 leverages AI in several key areas:
- Copy Editing: Beyond basic spell check, AI helps ensure articles follow the right context and style, making stories clearer and more engaging.
- Script Conversion: With content spanning multiple platforms, AI assists in converting scripts for broadcast, web, and social media, adapting the style and format to suit each audience while preserving the original journalism.
- Platform Conversion: AI enables the transformation of horizontal video for TV or YouTube into vertical formats for Instagram or TikTok, maximizing reach and impact across channels.
- Creative Assistance: From headline suggestions to social media teases, AI offers creative input based on independently gathered and written material. Importantly, every AI-generated suggestion is reviewed by a human before publication.
What Remains Strictly Human
There are clear boundaries to WCPO 9’s use of AI:
- No AI-Generated Images or Video: All visuals are authentic, sourced by WCPO 9 or trusted partners like the Associated Press and CNN.
- No AI-Written Scripts: Journalists write every article and broadcast script. AI is never used to generate stories from scratch.
- No AI-Driven Research: Fact-checking and research are always conducted by journalists, ensuring accuracy and trustworthiness.
The Technology Behind the Scenes
WCPO 9 employs a variety of AI tools, including ChatGPT and Claude, all filtered through a secure internal platform. This system uses custom prompts to support editorial tasks while safeguarding sensitive information until it’s ready for publication.
Actionable Takeaways for News Consumers
- Look for Transparency: Disclaimers about AI use signal a newsroom’s commitment to openness.
- Trust Human Oversight: Even as AI assists, journalists remain responsible for the final product.
- Stay Informed: As technology evolves, so do newsroom practices. WCPO 9 pledges to update readers on any changes to their AI use.
Summary of Key Points
- WCPO 9 uses AI to enhance, not replace, journalistic work.
- All stories are written and fact-checked by humans.
- AI assists with editing, formatting, and creative tasks under human supervision.
- No AI-generated images or videos are used.
- Transparency and editorial integrity are top priorities.
By blending the best of technology with the irreplaceable skills of journalists, WCPO 9 sets a thoughtful example for responsible AI use in modern newsrooms.