Key Findings

1. A networked structure necessarily requires that ICIJ relinquish control of the investigation and content produced by partner organizations, which can result in reporting errors.
2. Measuring the impact of one organization and one project is difficult. Even knowing about the far-flung impact of ICIJ partner stories is near impossible.
3. Collaborations, however complicated, result in increased capacity, larger audiences, and greater potential for impact.
4. ICIJ’s above-and-below distribution strategy has proven effective. Large, international media generates attention to issues from international elites, while local and national media generates awareness among the most affected populations.
5. A rolling thunder approach whereby reporters stick with the story long after the initial publication keeps the spotlight on the issues.