COMMUNICATION MANAGEMENT AT WASPADA ONLINE IN NEWS PUBLICATION

Abstract

This study aims to analyze the internal communication management between editors and journalists at Waspada Online in the news publication process and to identify the factors that support and hinder the effectiveness of internal communication. The study employed a descriptive qualitative approach, with data collected through observation, in-depth interviews, and documentation. The research was conducted at the editorial office of Waspada Online in Medan City and involved two purposively selected informants: a managing editor and a journalist who were directly engaged in the news production and publication process. Data were analyzed through the stages of data reduction, data display, and conclusion drawing, while data validity was established through source triangulation and methodological triangulation. The findings indicate that internal communication management at Waspada Online is carried out through four management functions: planning, organizing, actuating, and controlling. The planning function is implemented through editorial briefings and the determination of news coverage agendas; organizing involves the allocation of tasks and responsibilities; actuating is conducted through direct communication and digital platforms such as WhatsApp, telephone, and the Content Management System; while controlling is performed through editing, verification, revision, and evaluation of news content prior to publication. Factors supporting the effectiveness of internal communication include structured briefings, clear task allocation, two-way communication, the use of communication technology, and editorial supervision. Meanwhile, inhibiting factors include deadline pressure, network disruptions, limited access to field information, differences in perception, and repeated news revisions. This study demonstrates that structured internal communication management contributes to effective coordination, information accuracy, and the credibility of news publication at Waspada Online, although its effectiveness remains influenced by time constraints and the dynamic nature of digital media work.