Introduction
If you are new to Internet Marketing, then acronyms like RSS and XML probably sound closer to a vaccine than a helpful tool to boost your business. Below I will teach you the basics of RSS, so that you don't sink in the sea of IM terms.
Before I dive into the nitty gritty details, let's get a few definitions out of the way:
XML (Extensible Markup Language):a set of rules for encoding documents electronically. Essentially, it provides a flexible format for creating structured computer documents.
RSS (Really Simple Syndication): a family of web font formats coded in XML used to provide subscribers with frequently updated information. It is a way to get information from blogs and other sources without actually logging into the blog.
Web Syndication:website material is made available on a number of different websites such as RSS Feeds, news, and press releases.
Web Feed: Allows feed readers to access a site automatically when looking for new content and the post updates about that new content on other sites.
Learning RSS Basics Essentially, you use RSS to subscribe to the web feed of a site, blog or other media content found online (including video, music, or any other digital media).
When you syndicate, you no longer need to visit the actual site to read or receive the latest posted content. Alternatively, you use feed-reading software or websites to view the most recent content.
The glamour of it all is that rather than visiting all of your favorite sites each day to catch up on the latest news, you will receive everything of interest all in one place. This is a highly efficient way for you to get your favorite content as soon as it posts.
I won't bore you with XML information because it is really of no value unless you are a tech-junkie. I will stick with the basics so that you better understand the value of web feeds.
Feed Reading: Software or Web-Based If you perform a Google search for RSS readers, you will find several viable options. Search for one that is free and functional for what you want. Test out 2 or 3 before deciding on your favorite. Remember there is always a learning curve when trying out new software. Once you start receiving your feeds, the software will become easier to understand.
RSS reader software is a wonderful option, but there is a downside. You can only receive RSS feeds on the computer to which you installed the actual software. If you have more than one computer in your life (which most of us do), then you may want to opt for a web-based feed reader.
Web-based readers are fantastic because they are entirely Internet based and you can access your syndicated feeds online from any computer location. You also have the option to share your feeds with others and search what others are reading.
Subscribing to a Web Feed You have probably noticed at the top of blogs or other sites an orange RSS link button. This is what you use to subscribe to feeds. Click on the RSS link button, then copy and paste the web link into your feed-reading software or web-based reader. Sometimes you will have to name the feed, but other times the feed will be aptly named so you remember what it is.
Any blog you read will have a link to subscribe to. They come in various names including RSS, Atom, or Syndicate. Regardless what it is called, they all do the same thing. Like any new technology, different standards have been set to create web syndications. Much like DVD technology beating out the old Laser Disc, RSS seems to be winning this competition.
Though the rage of RSS began in the blogging world, many other forms of web content are catching onto the syndication fad. Many of the larger corporations and major sites are offering syndication for nearly all content.
Next time you click on a big site to read an article, check and see if it offers syndication. Most likely, you will find that it does.
Another form of syndication that is catching on rather quickly is Podcasting. A podcast is essentially an audio show that you are able to listen to on your computer or an MP3 device. Many sites like Apple's iTunes allows you to subscribe to various podcasts for free.
Syndication is the New Future Become familiar with the technology of RSS because as an Internet marketer, you will likely find it to be a useful tool for your business. Even if you aren't a blogger, syndication is a great tool to help your customers and viewers make an easier life on the Internet.
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