FavaNews-CNN plans to standardise the way it solicits and handles user-contributed news amid an industry-wide move to let consumers play a more prominent role in the news gathering process,Reuters reported

The cable news network has created a new program to let users send in digital audio and video from breaking news events in their region. Users can email or upload so-called "I-Reports" directly from CNN's site.

Contributions are vetted by seasoned editors much in the same way all news tips are followed up, CNN senior vice president of news Susan Bunda said in an interview.

The news network also has created a new web site, CNN Exchange <http://www.cnn.com/exchange>, which will house user-generated audio and video submissions.

"This is an opportunity to hear the very personal stories of people who know the events ... and are able to share with the world," Ms Bunda said.