Case Study: Planet Detroit measures journalism impact with The Work Department

Planet Detroit measures impact across 2019–2023 with The Work Department

Planet Detroit, a media organization providing environmental and public health journalism in Southeast Michigan, needed to better understand and document the reach and effectiveness of its reporting. To meet this challenge, they partnered with The Work Department to conduct a comprehensive impact study.

The Work Department designed and implemented a multi-method research approach, which included surveys and interviews with readers, partners, and policymakers. This work culminated in the creation of the 2019–2023 Planet Detroit Impact Report and a custom impact tracker tool. These deliverables provided a structured analysis of the organization's influence and established a system for ongoing measurement, helping Planet Detroit strengthen its reach, inform its reporting, and sustain its critical journalism.

Planet Detroit