Writers
Research Assistants
This page is for active contributors to The DataVerse Blog.
It outlines how we work, what to expect, and where to find the resources you’ll need as part of the publication.
If you’ve recently accepted a contributor role, this is your starting point.
How the publication works
The DataVerse Blog is an editorial publication focused on data, AI, and digital systems in African contexts. We prioritise writing that is clear, grounded, and informed by lived experience, research, or practice.
Our workflow is intentionally lightweight:
- Editors commission or review story ideas
- Contributors draft and revise pieces collaboratively
- Final editorial decisions sit with the editorial team
- Published work is attributed and archived as part of the publication
Timelines vary depending on scope and capacity, but we aim to communicate clearly at each stage.
Roles & expectations (at a glance)
Writers
- Propose or respond to story ideas
- Draft essays, analysis, or field reflections
- Work with editors on revisions and clarity
Editors
- Review submissions and provide structured feedback
- Support clarity, structure, and coherence
- Coordinate revisions with contributors
Research Assistants
- Support background research and sourcing
- Assist with verification and contextual review
Graphic Designers
- Create simple visuals, diagrams, or graphic treatments
- Support clarity rather than decoration
Newsletter & Digital Publishing
- Support curation, formatting, and distribution
- Help maintain consistency across platforms
Social Media Managers
- Support amplification of published work
- Translate editorial content into platform-appropriate formats
Role responsibilities may evolve as the publication grows.
Communication norms
To keep things organised:
- Email is used for editorial feedback, decisions, and detailed communication
- WhatsApp is used for announcements, coordination, and time-sensitive updates
- Editorial discussions and feedback should not happen exclusively on WhatsApp
We aim to acknowledge messages within a reasonable timeframe and will communicate clearly if timelines shift.
Resources & access
Contributors are given access to shared resources as needed, including:
- Editorial and style guidelines
- Story briefs and working documents
- Shared folders for drafts and visuals
Access is typically granted after role confirmation and onboarding.
If you’re missing access to something you need, reach out by email.
What happens next
If you’ve recently joined:
- Confirm your role via the acceptance form
- Review the contributor guidelines
- Wait for a story brief or editorial follow-up
- Join any role-specific coordination group (if applicable)
We’ll guide you through each step — there’s no need to rush ahead.
Questions or clarifications?
If you have questions about your role, expectations, or workflow, please reply to the email that brought you here.
We’re glad to have you contributing to the publication.
— The DataVerse Blog Editorial Team