Using Facebook, Twitter in Haiti

By Doug Haddix

IRE Training Director

Manny Garcia of The Miami Herald explains how his newsroom is using Twitter and Facebook to cover the earthquake in Haiti and its aftermath. The social media tools have helped with logistics as well as story tips from people in Haiti. Garcia's advice applies to using social media tools for any big breaking news story. The influx of useful tips and information through social media led The Herald to designate a staffer to manage them for ongoing Haiti coverage and coordination. Garcia spoke at an IRE Ethnic Media Watchdog Workshop at Tulane University in New Orleans in January. The workshop was hosted by Tulane's Communication Department.