For journalists, a freelancing career usually means a life of instability and, in the Internet age, can result in partnerships with less-than-reputable publishers and institutions. Just like the quality of freelance jobs, freelancers also vary in quality—but now content network Studio One is launching a program to certify its freelancers in an effort to assure the production of high-quality content. 

According to the guidelines, a Studio One freelancer will have at least three years of professional experience, demonstrated Web experience, knowledge of the content area they’re writing for and a keen understanding of SEO practices. Peter Sikowitz, Studio One's evp of content and programming, told Adweek that the certification is a formal application of a process they’ve been using to produce content for years.