On the Web, the search for clues with which to adequately evaluate a work can be quite difficult. There is no guarantee that an author's name will be given or that his or her qualifications will be provided. Also, if an author's name is given on a page, it should not be automatically assumed that this person is the actual author. In addition, it is often difficult to verify who, if anyone, has ultimate responsibility for publishing the material. Accuracy Accuracy is the extent to which information is reliable and free from errors.
Traditional media utilizes a number of checks and balances to help assure the accuracy of content.
Authority and accuracy often are interrelated. We often make the assumption, usually with good reason, that a publisher with a reputation for reliability, objectivity, etc. will produce works that also are accurate. If a publication has an excellant reputation as an authoritative, reliable publication it usually is safe to assume that the information is accurate. On the Internet, people easily can make their works public, independent of the traditional publishing or broadcasting process and material can be published almost instaneously. However, the steps that contribute to the accuracy of traditional media frequently are condensed or even eliminated in the Web.