After making the assignment, the associate editor
writes it on the master assignment sheet, which should
be placed in a central location in the editor’s office. The
master assignment sheet can be designed like the one
shown in figure 7-3. If you prefer a larger format, you
can convert the sheet to a master assignment board using
a chalkboard, dry marker board or a large piece of plastic
or plexiglass. In offices with LAN word processing
computer systems, assignments can be listed (without
paper) in a master document via electronic mail.
COPY LOG
The associate editor should maintain a copy log,
similar in format to the master assignment sheet. The
copy log, however, is a list of stories already done and
ready for layout in the paper.
TRAINING
The training (and cross-training) considerations
discussed in Chapter 1 apply to your newspaper staff as
well. Cross-train your editors (sports, leisure, classified
ads, and soon) about once a year. Make sure the sports
editor, in addition to writing sports stories, is given
several opportunities to write straight news stories
during his tour in the department. Similarly, the leisure
editor should be competent in news and sports writing.
It is important that you make cross-training a habit.
NEWSPAPER STAFF CREDENTIALS
Issue credentials to all newspaper staff members. A
typical credential consists of a black-and-white
photograph with the individual’s name, organization
Figure 7-3.-Master assignment sheet.
7-9
