* 59 writers
* 24 fact-checkers
* 16 editors
* 15 image designers
* 11 copy editors (who correct spelling, grammar, and ensure consistent style)
Where do these numbers come from?
Groupon.
So... what does a breakout of Groupon's creative staff mean to the pajama clad webdev pounding laptop keys in the night's quiet while his family sleeps?
It means that for every hour spent writing:
--24 minutes should be spent confirming the facts.
--15 minutes should be spent acquiring/creating accompanying imagery.
--11 minutes should be spent checking spelling, grammar, and style.
--10 minutes should be spent on planning, direction, and approval.
Note: I dropped editorial from 16 to 10 to remove some managerial hierarchy. And neatly sum to one hour.
Yes, I am slightly tongue in cheek, but only slightly. By all means adjust the ratios, but never ever forget that content must not only be written - it must be true, it must be correct, it must be consistent, imagery must be unique and compelling, and it all must have purpose. Writing is only half the job.
