Accuracy: can it be verified?

Accuracy is about providing enough detail to verify a claim that’s been made. In the workplace, accuracy is an expectation.
Before making or relying on a statement, ensure it can be verified with reference to data or other material, and preferably corroborated by a third party.
Where this is not possible, you should have a reasonable explanation for why you produced or relied on the information.
Relying on inaccurate material could be embarrassing; producing inaccurate material could cost you your job.

The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission’s (ACCC) guidelines for accuracy in advertising are a helpful resource for the workplace (opens in new tab).

Do

give current and correct information
use appropriate language
check that the overall impression is accurate
back up claims with facts and documented evidence where appropriate
note important limitations or exemptions
correct any misunderstandings
be prepared to substantiate.

Don't

guess the facts
omit relevant information
make ambiguous or contradictory statements or use unnecessary jargon
make promises you cannot keep, or make predictions without reasonable basis

4.2.3.1 Activity - Accuracy

Read this excerpt and answer the question below.

Excerpt from online article from the ABC about movie piracy. Image shows photo of producer Nelson Woss talking about the problem of film piracy in Australia. Village Roadshow executive Graham Burke s

After reading this article (opens in new tab) consider what questions would you ask the creator to verify its accuracy and then answer the questions below.

Note - Please make sure you check your answers to complete the activity and record your result. Use the arrows to move between questions

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