Harnessing Data and Digital Journalism in Latin America Cultures and Contexts

The plurality of different journalisms worldwide is not always apparent in the industry. In this chapter, we discuss how the Latin American news ecosystem is evolving and reshaping the relationship between newsrooms and audiences. News media in the region are embracing new tools and capabilities that have been influencing nearly every facet of their business, despite the lack of technological and research resources available in Western democracies. In summary, we describe a fourfold approach commonly observable in the region: (i) the adoption of new norms, routines, and practices characterized by the technological and behavioral disruptions, (ii) the ongoing search for sustainable business models, (iii) the adoption of data storytelling and collaboration in news production, as well audience participation, (iv) the strong dependence and influence of platforms and philanthropic foundations in the region. The chapter concludes by arguing that the future of journalism is interwoven with technology, as we are moving toward “ubiquitous journalism.”