It has been said that in October 2004 a Google search returned fewer than 6,000 results for the term “podcasting.” Today, a similar search returns more than 857,000 results. Like the blogging phenomenon, podcasting came out of nowhere and attracted an enthusiastic audience.
While some traditional radio talk shows have started offering podcasts of their regularly scheduled broadcasts, most of the podcasts that have emerged tend to be independent broadcasters with a fascination with technology. As a result, some podcasts are a bit crude. However, it is clear that technology offers significant opportunity and potential. Even naysayers believe podcasting is more than just a fad.
Podcasting is RSS that is used to distribute and distribute audio files. Podcasting contains an audio file in the attached tag of the RSS feed. An enclosure tag is used in RSS feeds to include certain types of files. The file contained in a cabinet label can be: an image, a data file, a video file, or an audio file. Podcasting specifically refers to RSS feeds that contain audio files in their attached tag. The RSS version that currently supports box tags is RSS version 2.0. All podcasts are currently created using this specification.
The benefit of podcasting is the fact that users can sync content to their media player and listen to it whenever and wherever they choose – radio on demand. And while this technology is not limited to music, it appears to be the area that has received the most attention.
Podcasting is generally inexpensive to implement. Investing in a good quality microphone will ensure that the recording is audible. Depending on knowledge and experience, some podcasters invest in audio conversion, compression, and editing software applications. Additionally, the bandwidth of the web space and software is needed to create the podcast feed. Still, the initial expense is relatively small.
Podcast Publishing
In three easy steps, independent broadcasters can make their voices heard:
1. Editors create audio content and post it on a website for listeners.
2. Create or edit an existing RSS feed that includes a link to the audio file in the “attachment” field of an RSS 2.0 feed, by uploading it to a website.
3. Tell the world there is a podcast available.
Listen to the podcasts:
In three simple steps, Internet users can listen to podcasts:
1. Download a news aggregator or RSS reader that supports podcasting or sync a wireless device such as an iPod with your computer.
2. Enter the URL of the podcast feed into the news aggregator or podcast management software.
3. As new items appear in the aggregator, review the podcast description and listen to those that interest you.
As popularity rises, many voices are likely to drown, but for now, an independent broadcaster with a microphone and unlimited bandwidth can make a name for itself, create an image, and change the world.
Helpful tools for podcasting:
Create podcast source: http://www.feedforall.com
News aggregator that supports podcasts: http://www.feeddemon.com or http://www.primetimepodcast.com
See also Podcasting Tools: http://www.small-business-software.net/podcasting-tools.htm
