In this paper the field of participatory design is argued as offering valuable theoretical insight to further understanding of journalistic practices in the context of digital media’s participatory possibilities.

Participatory design is referred to and used as perspectives sharing concern for a ‘more humane, creative and effective relationship between those involved in technology’s design and its use’ (Suchman, 1993). Tensions within the participatory design field concerning collaborative ethics are presented and discussed. Latour’s Actor Network Theory is argued as bridging participatory design with existing journalism research.

Gatekeeping, White’s (1950) classic concept, is used as an example what participatory design can mean for studying journalistic practices. The theoretical concept ‘relational gatekeeping’ is presented as valuable to understand gatekeeping processes in media and news production, adding insight by focusing on aligning formations, like alliances and affiliations.