Writing Policies

Writing & Editorial Policies

IndiLinks Journalistic Standards & Creative Guidelines

Integrating newsroom rigor with creative brilliance since 2016

“We treat every brief like a news story. We investigate like journalists, write like novelists, and strategize like marketers. At IndiLinks, storytelling isn’t a department—it’s our DNA.”— Mr. Mukesh Saini, Founder & CEO
Former Senior Journalist, Network18/ETV | President, Journalists Association of India

1. Our Writing Philosophy

At IndiLinks, writing is not merely a service—it’s a discipline rooted in two decades of journalistic excellence and creative innovation. We bridge the gap between corporate communication and compelling storytelling, maintaining the credibility of a newsroom while delivering the impact of premium creative content.

Our approach is defined by what we call “Investigative Creativity”—applying journalistic rigor to commercial storytelling. Whether crafting a corporate film script, a defense documentary, or a social media campaign, every word is researched, every claim is verified, and every narrative is built on factual integrity.

The IndiLinks 4-Step Narrative Arc

Every piece of content follows our proven methodology:

  1. The Research Phase (Newsroom): Investigate, interview, verify facts, analyze data
  2. The Hook Phase (Creative): Find emotional connection, craft compelling narrative
  3. The Execution Phase (Cinema): Produce with world-class quality and attention to detail
  4. The Amplification Phase (Digital): Distribute through optimal channels for maximum impact

2. Specialized Writing Teams

Our human capital includes specialized writing divisions, each with distinct expertise:

The Deep Research Wing

Investigative researchers with journalistic backgrounds who verify every fact through multiple authoritative sources before writing begins.

Book & Special Projects Division

Ghostwriters, biographers, and authors specializing in full-length books, coffee-table books, and biography projects for industry leaders.

Creative & Scripting Squad

Screenplay writers, narrative specialists, and script doctors who understand the rhythm of dialogue and psychology of audience engagement.

Special Article & Op-Ed Writers

Expert writers crafting thought leadership pieces, opinion editorials, and feature articles for national and international publications.

The IndiLinks Human Capital Advantage

Our writing teams operate within a larger ecosystem of 100+ media professionals including cinematographers, editors, digital strategists, and brand architects. This cross-functional collaboration ensures that writing is never done in isolation—it’s integrated with visual storytelling, technical execution, and strategic distribution from day one.

3. Research Methodology

3.1 Primary Research Standards

  • Expert Interviews: Minimum 3 subject matter experts consulted for technical topics
  • Stakeholder Engagement: Interviews with all relevant stakeholders before narrative development
  • Field Research: On-ground investigation for authenticity in documentary projects
  • Direct Observation: First-hand observation of processes, facilities, and operations when possible

3.2 Secondary Research Protocols

  • Source Verification: Cross-referencing from minimum 2 independent authoritative sources
  • Academic Rigor: Review of peer-reviewed journals, official reports, and white papers
  • Data Validation: Statistical verification through multiple data points
  • Historical Accuracy: Consultation of primary historical documents and archives

Defense & Geopolitical Research: For defense, military, and geopolitical content, our research follows enhanced protocols including consultation with retired defense personnel, analysis of official defense publications, and adherence to security clearance requirements. Our Founder’s expertise in defense journalism ensures authentic, accurate, and responsible coverage.

4. Content Creation Workflow

4.1 Client Brief Analysis

Every project begins with our proprietary “Brief Deconstruction” process where we analyze not just what the client wants, but why they want it, who the audience is, and what success looks like.

4.2 Content Strategy Development

  • Tone & Voice Analysis: Defining the precise communication style for the audience
  • Message Hierarchy: Prioritizing key messages based on strategic importance
  • Channel Strategy: Adapting content for different platforms and formats
  • Cultural Adaptation: Localizing content for international audiences across 50+ markets

4.3 Drafting & Development

Our writing process includes:

  • Outline Approval: Detailed chapter-by-chapter or scene-by-scene outlines before full drafting
  • Iterative Drafting: Multiple drafts with increasing levels of detail and refinement
  • Cross-Team Collaboration: Writers work alongside visual artists, strategists, and technical teams
  • Client Checkpoints: Regular client reviews at predetermined milestones

5. Ethical Guidelines

Core Principle: Truth before creativity. No aesthetic flourish justifies factual inaccuracy.

5.1 Plagiarism Policy

Zero tolerance for plagiarism. All sources must be properly credited. We use advanced plagiarism detection software and maintain meticulous source documentation.

5.2 Fact-Checking Standards

  • Three-Source Rule: Major claims require verification from three independent sources
  • Expert Review: Technical content reviewed by subject matter experts
  • Statistical Verification: All data points verified against original sources
  • Quote Authentication: Direct quotes confirmed with speakers when possible

5.3 Conflict of Interest Management

  • Full disclosure of any potential conflicts before project acceptance
  • Recusal of team members with personal or financial interests
  • Transparent client relationships and partnership disclosures

5.4 Cultural Sensitivity & Inclusion

  • Content adapted for cultural contexts across international markets
  • Inclusive language that respects diversity and avoids stereotypes
  • Sensitivity readers consulted for content involving marginalized communities
  • Regional expertise leveraged for location-specific content

6. Quality Assurance Process

Every deliverable undergoes our 5-layer quality assurance process:

6.1 Layer 1: Technical Accuracy Review

  • Fact-checking against source materials
  • Technical term verification
  • Statistical accuracy confirmation
  • Compliance with industry standards

6.2 Layer 2: Editorial Excellence

  • Grammar, syntax, and language refinement
  • Tone consistency and brand voice alignment
  • Structural coherence and narrative flow
  • Clarity and readability optimization

6.3 Layer 3: Strategic Alignment

  • Alignment with client objectives and KPIs
  • Audience relevance and engagement potential
  • Competitive positioning and differentiation
  • Call-to-action effectiveness

6.4 Layer 4: Legal & Compliance

  • Copyright and trademark compliance
  • Defamation risk assessment
  • Privacy and data protection compliance
  • Regulatory requirement verification

6.5 Layer 5: Final Polish

  • Formatting and presentation standards
  • Cross-platform compatibility
  • Accessibility considerations
  • Final proofreading and error correction

7. Specialized Content Categories

7.1 Defense & Geopolitical Content

Our specialty area with enhanced protocols:

  • Background checks for team members
  • Security clearance requirements where applicable
  • Consultation with retired defense personnel
  • Adherence to Official Secrets Act and related regulations
  • Sensitive information handling protocols

7.2 Corporate & Executive Communications

  • CEO messaging and thought leadership
  • Annual reports and investor communications
  • Crisis communication and reputation management
  • Merger & acquisition announcements
  • Employee engagement communications

7.3 Documentary & Long-Form Content

  • Historical accuracy and archival research
  • Interview transcription and narrative construction
  • Visual storytelling synchronization
  • Educational value and audience engagement balance

7.4 Digital & Social Media Content

  • Platform-specific optimization (YouTube, LinkedIn, Instagram, etc.)
  • SEO integration and keyword strategy
  • Viral potential and shareability factors
  • Community engagement and conversation design

8. Technology & AI Integration

8.1 AI-Assisted Writing

Our policy on artificial intelligence in writing:

  • AI tools may be used for research assistance and initial ideation
  • All AI-generated content undergoes human editing and fact-checking
  • Final creative direction and strategic thinking remain human-driven
  • Clients are informed if AI tools contribute to their projects
  • We maintain human oversight for all client deliverables

8.2 Digital Tools & Platforms

  • Advanced plagiarism detection software
  • SEO optimization and analytics platforms
  • Collaborative writing and editing tools
  • Content management and workflow systems
  • Accessibility checking tools

9. Training & Development

Our writing teams undergo continuous training including:

  • Journalistic Ethics Workshops: Quarterly sessions on media ethics and standards
  • Industry Specialization: Training in defense, technology, healthcare, finance, etc.
  • Cross-Functional Skills: Writers train in basic video editing, SEO, and design principles
  • International Standards: Training on USA/UK/EU content standards for global projects
  • Legal Compliance: Regular updates on copyright, defamation, and privacy laws