When an article is prepared for publication at the Times, it currently has to go through a layered editing process. First, it is sent to "backfielders," editors who assign stories and work closely with reporters. Then it is sent to any number of copy editors, who write headlines, check facts and sources, clarify confusion and make sure the story meets Times standards. The Times plans to realign this system by replacing it with one layer of editors who will fill all of these roles.