Exchanges between researchers and journalists can go beyond interviews. They can also improve how journalism serves communities.

For example, take findings from the nonprofit research organization More in Common. The group is well-known for its “Hidden Tribes” research, which helped illustrate how most Americans are not on the extremes of issues but instead make up the “Exhausted Majority.” They also have demonstrated the extent of the “perception gap” between Americans, or how Americans often overestimate how many people on the “other side” hold extreme positions. These concepts of the Exhausted Majority and perception gaps can be reported on as findings, sure. But with more consideration and effort, they can transform the journalism.