Prefer email? We do too. For all communications related to CostBrief, send a message to hello@costbrief.org. That single point of contact helps our editorial, research, and policy teams coordinate replies and keep records accurate.
What to include in your message
To help us respond quickly and effectively, please include:
- Clear subject line — summarize the topic in a few words (example: “Data correction: school construction cost”)
- Relevant details — link to the page or dataset, include dates, figures, or screenshots if applicable
- Your role or affiliation — reporter, researcher, policymaker, vendor, member of the public, etc.
- Preferred outcome — correction, source citation, interview request, partnership inquiry, or general feedback
Types of inquiries we welcome
CostBrief focuses on clear, research-led coverage of public spending, budgets, and procurement. We encourage messages that relate to:
- Corrections and factual updates — spotted an error or outdated number on our site? Tell us where and why.
- Source documents and data — if you can share primary documents, datasets, or official reports that strengthen an article, that’s highly valuable.
- Research collaboration — proposals for joint studies, data partnerships, or academic queries tied to public-cost analysis.
- Media and interview requests — requests for expert commentary from our analysts or for background information.
- Reader feedback — suggestions for topics, story ideas, or user experience improvements.
- Partnerships and funding inquiries — for organizations seeking to support or partner with CostBrief.
Response expectations
We aim to acknowledge every message. Typical timelines:
- Acknowledgement: within 48 hours for most inquiries.
- Initial reply or next steps: within 5 business days for research, corrections, and media requests.
- Complex or collaborative proposals: may take up to 2–3 weeks while we coordinate internally.
If your request is time-sensitive, please indicate deadlines and the best phone number or time window for direct follow-up. While email is the only official route we use, providing a phone number in your message helps us prioritize urgent items.
Privacy and use of information
Messages are read by the appropriate members of our editorial and research teams. We treat sensitive information responsibly; if you need confidentiality, state that clearly in your message and explain why. We will consider requests for anonymity or embargoes where appropriate and consistent with our editorial policies.
If you haven’t heard back within the expected timeframe, please send a brief follow-up to hello@costbrief.org with the original subject line and date of your first message.