The Washington Post plans to let everyday readers submit opinion columns. To support this, the paper will use an AI tool called Ember.
The tool, which will guide non-professional writers through the writing process, is part of a large project known internally as Ripple.
What Is Ember?
Ember is an AI writing coach. According to The New York Times, Ember helps users structure and improve their writing.
It offers a “story strength” meter to show how the piece is progressing, a sidebar with key elements like the thesis, supporting points, and ending, and prompts and questions to guide development.
Writers will use Ember as they write, however, Editors will still review every piece before publication.
Who Can Submit Columns?
Almost anyone: Substack writers, Bloggers, Independent thinkers, and even everyday readers with unique stories. No formal writing background is required.
How the Process Works
The Post will launch the program in stages with early partnerships beginning in the summer. Ember’s role will expand in the final phase so that testing can begin in the fall.
Notably, these new opinion pieces will be free to read: a new subscription is not needed.
Changing the Voice of Opinions
Ripple represents the paradigm shift towards broader participation rather than narrow opinions. It wants to offer more “breadth,” according to internal sources.
