We report independently

THE DECODER acts independently as an editorial team and is not influenced by the interests of individual parties, companies, persons or interest groups. We report up-to-date and are guided by facts. No one in the editorial team can be persuaded by internal or external pressure to report contrary to his or her convictions.

We promote diversity of opinion within the editorial team through discussion and strengthen the sense of responsibility of individual editors. Opinion pieces are explicitly marked as such ("commentary").

Advertising and editorial content are clearly separated from each other without exception.

We value diversity and equality

In our reports, we value diversity of perspectives and equality between cultures and genders. We report without bias toward people and use gender-equal language.

How does THE DECODER verify the truthfulness of information?

As a rule, we go back to the original source. When possible, we also check a piece of information against multiple sources. In our research, we also rely on established, trustworthy sources from journalism, academia, experts and directly from companies.

We check our own sources and disclose them transparently. If the source wishes, we protect it. In the case of unknown sources or rumors, we point this out or refrain from reporting.

The decision to publish is made by the editorial team to the best of its knowledge and belief.

How does THE DECODER deal with errors?

If there are errors in the content of our articles or if the information turns out to be incorrect despite conscientious checking of sources, we change the corresponding passage in the article. We make this change transparent in a note in the article. In serious cases, a separate correction may be the more appropriate measure.

How does THE DECODER test?

We discuss our content in editorial conferences and plan it in an editorial schedule. Possible product tests and field reports are the responsibility of the individual editors, who present and discuss their assessments with the editorial team before publication.

How does THE DECODER handle test samples and invitations to events?

Occasionally, companies invite us to events or promotions. We state this transparently in articles. There is no influence on reporting through, for example, a sample or an invitation. The editors of THE DECODER are committed solely to their readers.

How does sponsoring work at THE DECODER?

We offer so-called "Sponsored Posts" and sponsored job advertisements for companies and organizations. The content of a Sponsored Post is determined by the commissioning company/organization independently or in consultation with a senior editor. Sponsored posts are advertisements and will be marked accordingly as "Advertisement". They do not reflect the opinion of the editorial team and are not part of our regular reporting.

How can I learn more about the editorial team and their work?

You can reach the editorial team at any time via our contact address or via the editors' individual e-mail addresses. You can find the e-mail addresses on the team page.