Content Standards for VerseDB

Maintaining high-quality, accurate, and well-documented information is essential for the integrity of VerseDB. This guide outlines the content standards contributors should follow when submitting or editing comic data.

Accuracy Requirements for Comic Data Submissions

Ensuring the accuracy of comic data is crucial for maintaining a reliable database. Contributors should adhere to the following guidelines:

• Fact-Based Submissions: All information must be sourced from official or reputable sources, avoiding speculation and personal interpretations.
• Complete and Consistent Data: Provide full details, including issue numbers, release dates, character appearances, and creator credits.
• Avoid Misinformation: If uncertain about a detail, do not submit it. Use placeholders or notes for missing information.
• Cross-Check Information: Verify data across multiple credible sources before submission.

Citation Standards for Factual Information

Proper citations help maintain credibility and transparency. When submitting factual data:

• Preferred Sources:
  • Official publisher websites (e.g., Marvel, DC, Image, etc.)
  • Creator interviews and verified statements
  • Official press releases and solicitations
  • ISBN records and retailer listings (e.g., Previews, Amazon, bookstores)
• Avoid:
  • Fan wikis or community-edited databases unless they provide direct source links.
  • Social media rumors or speculative content without publisher confirmation.
• How to Cite:
  • When adding specific details (e.g., first appearances, retcons, release dates), mention the source in the submission notes.
  • Link to official sources whenever possible.

Guidelines for Handling Conflicting Source Material

Sometimes sources may provide contradictory information. In such cases:

• Prioritize Official Sources: Publisher announcements take precedence over third-party listings.
• Compare Multiple Sources: If inconsistencies exist, seek corroboration from at least two independent credible sources.
• Document Discrepancies: If no clear resolution is available, include all major conflicting reports with citations.
• Use Contextual Notes: Provide additional context where necessary, such as explaining publishing errors or editorial changes.

Quality Expectations for Descriptions and Summaries

Content clarity and readability are essential for VerseDB. Follow these quality standards:

• Concise Yet Informative: Keep descriptions clear and to the point while ensuring they provide relevant context.
• Avoid Subjective Language: Stick to neutral, fact-based writing. Avoid personal opinions or exaggerated claims.
• Proper Grammar and Formatting: Use correct spelling, punctuation, and grammar. Maintain consistent formatting across entries.
• Character and Series Summaries:
  • Provide a brief but comprehensive overview.
  • Include relevant milestones (e.g., first appearance, major story arcs, notable creators).
  • Avoid unnecessary speculation or spoilers unless clearly labeled.

Policy on Mature/Adult Content and Appropriate Age Ratings

VerseDB aims to provide appropriate content classifications to users. Adhere to the following policies when submitting mature or adult-rated content:

• Respect Publisher Ratings: Use the official age rating provided by the publisher (e.g., "Teen+," "Mature").
• Mark Explicit Content Clearly: Any comic with adult themes, strong language, violence, or sexual content must be labeled accordingly.
• No Unauthorized Explicit Material: Do not submit or link to unauthorized scans, leaks, or unofficial adult material.
• Context for Mature Themes: If a comic addresses mature themes (e.g., violence, horror, political themes), present this information factually without sensationalizing.

By adhering to these Content Standards, contributors help ensure that VerseDB remains a high-quality, accurate, and well-structured resource for the comic book community.