What is Podcasting: The Essential Guide to Multimedia Use

The word “multimedia” is a slogan for something that has to do with innovation. Indeed, technology makes every device worth its make.

And when it comes to innovation, practicality is the name of the game. This mean you can get almost everything that you need in a given device.

Since the onset of information technology, multimedia has distinctively created a new horizon for sounds and pictures. It has created a new breed of technological advancement that made every consumer satisfied with whatever he or she had bought.

One of the many examples technology has created and has landed on numerous MP3 players and iPods – podcasting.

Podcasting works like a radio. Once you have chosen a station, you are easily connected to your favorite songs every time you hook on that station.

In the same way, podcasting can readily provide you with “multimedia” files that you can download anytime. And when you mean multimedia, you can expect an array of entertainment files ranging from sounds, graphical images, or videos.

Podcasting uses a simple format that can automatically distribute files as they are produced. In most cases, podcasting uses a unique system known as RSS (Really Simple Syndication) feeds.

The Creation

In 2004, an ex-vee jay, named Adam Curry, has envisioned a greater future for multimedia as the idea of podcasting came into view. Through iPods and MP3 players, music and video enthusiasts can easily access to thousands of music and video files by simply subscribing to RSS feeds.

Even if podcasting sounds like that of the iPods, it has nothing to do with the item. The only connection between podcasting and iPods is the popularity that iPods have by the time podcasting was conceptualized.

However, because of this technology, the functionality of iPods was maximized. The connection between iPods and podcasting has been rationalized.

The Advantages

Since its inception, podcasting has created many benefits to many consumers, especially those who would like to experience a new form of entertainment.

Here is a list of some of the advantages of podcasting:

1. Convenience

With podcasting, consumers don't have to check on their favorite websites every single day to download the newest and the freshest multimedia contents. They can easily get access to thousands of multimedia files through RSS feeds.

2. Variety

The items that can be retrieved are innumerable.

3. Realism

With podcasting, you get to hear and view the world in a more realistic way.

Indeed, podcasting isn't just another fad that will soon fade away. It is something that is definitely here to stay.

Podcasting and ebook

First things first, have you ever heard of podcasting? Podcasting is a method in which files – like audio video programs, music – are transmitted thru the internet via RSS format or thru syndicated Atom. These files are then played back on computers and mobile units.

The name podcast was created back in the year 2004 where the word iPod was combined with broadcasting. This was coined even if it doesn't really require one to have an iPod to be able to broadcast on air.

The fame of the word pod was further boosted when an audio digital player released by Apple Computer was called iPod.

What is the definition of podcast?

Podcast basically means the way a particular content was delivered as well as the content. The host of the podcast, or the author, is usually labeled as the podcaster. A web site of a specific podcaster could offer a streaming download or a direct one.

The usual features of a podcast involve a specific type of show with episodes that are new which are released at particular intervals of the week or a day.

Podcast at Oxford

Podcast is so popular that the word has even made it to the Oxford Dictionary. This event has therefore solidified the existence of the podcasting term in the general conversation and language in an average American household.

The podcast market

There is a company called Interactive Voices that provide voice talents to particular podcast intros, sweepers. This company also celebrates the medium of podcasting with various events and activities such as Podcasting Week.

Podcasting ebook

Interactive Voices have also come up with an ebook called: The Podcasting Ebook.” This material is considered as a guide that provides all the necessary details one would need and would want to know about podcasting that has already received a positive review from PodcastLaunchpad.com. It has been touted as having a value that is exceptional.

Podcasting is it

Though still relatively new, podcasting is now being embraced by newspapers and media companies as an alternative method that could similarly draw as much audience as traditional methods of reaching out to a wider and diverse group of people.

Podcasting’s edge over the usual manner of gathering up a crowd is its ingenuity. Through podcasting, readers are able to listen to writers. Popular papers – and even the serious ones – are able to link the benefits of using the internet and paper therefore stimulating better participation between readers and a lot of journalists.

All in all, podcasting is a new way to entertain an old audience, and acceptance and openness to such a new technology causes a lot of satisfied people in the long run.

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vlogging and Podcasting: What Makes the Difference?

Vlogging and podcasting are the hottest items in communication and marketing these days. They have tremendously surpassed the popularity that blogging has created since its inception.

Blogs had been the top most priority of almost all the people in the society, both professionals and non-professionals. They have seen the power that blogs can do.

However, as the technology evolves and revolutionizes into a new concept, fresher ideas of communication tools had been created. Among the many changes that had taken place, vlogging and podcasting are the most popular.

For ordinary consumers, vlogging and podcasting are fresher ways to customize their blogs.

Vlogging was primarily created to revolutionize the concept of blogging. Through this process, bloggers can use videos to share their items, messages, or ideas. On the other hand, podcasting distributes multimedia files through RSS feeds.

RSS feeds permit the distribution of videos and other multimedia files through subscription. In this way, consumers can readily get access to the newest and the freshest items without having to download and search for them manually.

For Internet marketers and online business owners, vlogging and podcasting are two of the greatest marketing tools they can use today. With these devices, they can disseminate their product’s information at a higher level of marketing technique.

Are They the Same?

As much as podcasting and vlogging are the same when it comes to popularity and efficacy, these are still two different things.

Podcasting and vlogging are both used to distribute multimedia files through RSS feeds. They can be utilized for marketing and personal use. However, the way they are accessed from the RSS feeds differ significantly.

In vlogging, multimedia files can be accessed either through downloadable files or for streaming only. This means that people can choose whether they would like to hear and see the video first before they download them into their computers and use them.

In this way, people get to choose better videos before using them on their blogs or on their websites.

On the other hand, podcasting allows people to receive multimedia files in downloadable format. This means that they have to download the file first before they can see or hear its content. Podcasting doesn't allow streaming.

In some ways, downloadable formats are beneficial for people who are always on the go. They can bring their files with them through iPods or MP3 players.

The only problem is that streaming facilitates easier viewing. This means that consumers can easily listen to any songs they want without downloading anything.

Given all that, whether you need podcasting or vlogging, it will truly depend on your needs.

Stock up On Them: Podcaster Supplies for Your Show

Podcasting is an inexpensive way to get a show running on the Internet. However, although it is relatively inexpensive, it isn't free. If you plan to develop and maintain a podcast site, you'll at least have to keep some supplies on hand.

If you were serious about putting up and maintaining your podcast syndication than look at the following tips on supplies you will need during the lifespan of your podcast show.

1. Good recording equipment. The first thing you will need when setting up your podcasts is a good recording setup. Never underestimate how much good recording can affect the quality of your show. In fact, it could spell the difference between a successful podcast and a mediocre one.

You will need good microphones, a good soundcard, and a decent desktop computer to serve as your recording studio. Some of the more professional organizations have a separate recording studio to remaster and remix audio input for professional quantity podcasts.

However, a good microphone will do. Just make sure you record your episodes in a relatively quiet conducive area. Remember, garbage in, garbage out. So make sure you get good input so that you could assure yourselves of making good output.

2. Backup devices. Some files eat up a lot of space. You will need good backup solutions to be able to keep your data in one piece. Although the final product of your recording will be a very small file optimized for the Web, you'll still want your raw files backed up and kept in a safe place.

To do this, you will need extra hard disks, may be a tape drive, optical storage and recording equipment. Make sure that every thing you record and compile are saved and stored in a safe place. This is the best way to keep track of your activities for further improvement, and for posterity.

3. Office supplies. You also need office supplies for your planning and execution needs. It is also handy to keep paper pens and other supplies and to aid you in your planning and brainstorming activities.

While most people shy away from planning and go straight to their microphones to do their recording, it always makes sense to prepare for and plan for a podcasts well before the date of recording. This way you are able to maximize your time and create the best quality of podcast you are capable of making.

Understanding Paid Podcasting

Podcasting is a fast growing market on the Internet. The online audio content that is transmitted via RSS feed is popular among techie crazed people. It brings more options in terms of audio content and online features than the average radio.

Moreover, as a listener, you can determine the exact location and time in podcasting. In this way, you can choose what type of program you may want to listen to and transmit it on your audio content.

Paid podcasting enables listeners to save radio archives and listen to contents any time they want. On the other hand, some podcasters have become bloggers who write newsletters as a form of a paid podcast. You may also find podcasters who became radio oriented personalities.

In fact, paid podcasting is becoming the most in demand media that can support its own. While blogging is making its mark as a paid advertising tool on the Internet, you won't be surprised that in the near future many online marketers will embrace podcasting as an advertising tool that can transmit marketing plans via audio content materials. Here are some reasons why podcasting is considered as an effective tool in transmitting results and information to attain marketing goals.

1. Paid podcasting offers a variety of options in transmitting results to local, virtual, and a wider group of customers and employees who you may want to inform.

2. It is also recognized as a marketing tool for businesses that have a world wide market. They often use podcasting in sales meetings via online teleconference medium.

3. It is also considered as an effective online tool for distant learning and will conveniently inform your business team to know what areas they should improve.

4. Business consultants can use podcasting to get information to customers by interviewing customers, summarizing success stories, becoming a credible advisor and a valuable source in gathering information.

5. Businesses can use podcasting in adding more customers by advertising the reputation and credibility of the business through paid podcasting. You may also expand your network and introduce it to your prospective clients.

These are some valid reasons why many businesses acknowledge the efficiency of paid podcasting in transmitting results to achieve marketing goals to leverage your market. In this way, you can generate customers that are more loyal and expand your network by communicating to targeted customers this online audio tool.

The Value of Podcasting

When a customer makes a purchase, interaction is achieved. Should the same individual make come back and buy another item, then a relationship is born.

There are many ways to reach out to people. The conventional way of using billboards, flyers, the radio and the television. The turn of the 21st century has brought the emergence of another tool called podcasting.

How different is it from usual pop ups that are done for e-business? Well, aside from the pictures that feature the product, the entrepreneur can add audio or video files to help sell the product. This is very unique from the images seen on the website and clicking on it to get a better view of the item.

Podcasting can also be used in advertising. The files people download can show the civic works and other projects that the company is involved in. This creates brand awareness, which encourages people to support it.

Since podcasting doesn’t require the user of the Ipod to stay informed, those who have computers can also learn about the company enabling it to reach new markets.

One of the greatest features of podcasting is its ability to automatically update customers because of the RSS features it provides. People don’t have to log on site to know what is new since the person will be immediately informed after turning on the computer.

But podcasting isn’t only for external customers. It can also be used for those who are working inside the company. This allows one department to communicate with another to increase efficiency and productivity.

Podcasting is also a two way street. Not only will people stay informed but the company can also use it to get feedback. By listening to those who buy the product, defects and other problems can be addressed so improvements can be made.

This becomes another way for customers to give comments rather than waiting for this to come from the customer service hotline or through email.

But podcasting isn't only for large corporations. Those who have a small time business operating in an office or from the home can also use this to make money. Since this doesn’t work all the time, the person must first check if this is the right medium to convey the message.

By being able to determine what the customer wants and needs, anyone who wants to use podcasting will undoubtedly succeed in whatever endeavor the entrepreneur seeks to accomplish.

Two Great Ways to Earn Using Podcasts

Podcasting can even be used to make money over the Internet. If you're wondering how some people are able to turn their podcasts into revenue-generating machines, you will be surprised that it isn't as complicated as it sounds. However, it does involve a great deal of hard work, some luck, and rapport with your subscribers.

There are a few ways to make money using your podcast. Here are two of them that may apply to your podcast. Each of them can be used to make your hobby, or your podcast, worth its weight in gold.

1. Corporate sponsors. Your Podcast may have increased in popularity so much that major sponsors have begun to perk their ears. There have been many popular podcasts that have gained substantial revenue from commercial sponsors. These commercial sponsors will ask you to insert their ads in your podcast. In exchange for this, they will pay you quite a good amount for airtime.

But how do you find commercial sponsors. First of all you have to make sure that your podcast is gaining in popularity. If your podcast has a listening audience that is substantial, the commercial sponsors themselves might come and look for you. But if you do know a few people, and your podcasts is pretty popular, you can approach them seeking commercial sponsorship.

This is a great way to make money using your podcast. Revenues from commercial sponsors are nothing to laugh at since they do rake in quite a bit.

2. Donations and Subscriptions. Your podcast may also earn through donations. Popular podcasts let people download episodes for free. You could however, ask these people for donations. And if you're syndication is popular enough, even tiny donations from these people could amount to a great amount.

The only problem with this type of revenue earning is that it doesn't earn as regularly as other means. However, if you have a lot of subscribers, it could turn out to be a very substantial amount. Also, setting up a donation page on your web site, is easier then looking for a corporate sponsor. Anyone can do this.

Another option is to make your podcasts subscription-based - meaning that people have to pay to download your podcasts. However, the downside to this thing is that it could create a decrease in the popularity of your podcast, since not everyone has access to your shows.

You could, alternately, post some of your content for free, and leave some of your content for subscription. The free content serves to drum up interest in your podcast-leading people to subscribe to other episodes out of curiosity.

Technology Potentially Harmful: Why Podcasting Is Not For Everyone

Podcasting is a very popular Internet tool today. It can really save you time from searching through different websites for the things you want by just placing the information or data in an RSS feed. There is a lot of business done and profit made through podcasting. It definitely has advanced since it was first introduced in the market. Since 2004, podcasting has continued to grow, almost in exponential terms, and there are no signs of it slowing down. In fact, more and more people are seeing the power and potential of podcasting and are getting into it as well. However, it is important to note that podcasting isn't for everyone.

Many podcasters use this particular Internet service as a hobby, mainly for sharing audio and video data. These are the types who just point and click, using a program such as iTunes, which offers podcasting as one of its options. These types of podcasters would probably have a hard time using podcasts in other areas, such as business or blogging, since their knowledge is limited. Podcasting isn't as simple as it seems, which means that it isn’t a tool for everyone to use.

Podcasting, because of its popularity, has increased in terms of unpleasant data. Pornography has increased in podcasts – giving birth to the term “podnography”. The data can show up in fake filenames, fooling you. Some data in podcasts are planted by those creating viruses, worms, and spyware, giving you headaches when it comes to dealing with your computer. If you don't know how to properly guard against these things, then podcasting isn't for you. It will only do you more harm than good.

Here’s a tip: don't venture deep into podcasting if you have yet to gain proper knowledge about it, because you’ll be asking for trouble. Allow the experts in podcasting to teach you – you can use the Internet to learn more about it, or attend a podcasting and digital media conference, or some other method. Advanced podcasting without the proper tools (including your knowledge) can be risky.

Podcasting is a great advancement in technology and show the genius of man. However, it isn't for everyone as there are dangers present in podcasts as there are in other forms of digital media sharing. Before optimizing podcasts, research and learn more about it first.

Podcasting and Podcatcher

Podcasting is the latest and most popular Internet technological advancement today. It became the most sought out tool in transmitting audio contents via the Internet. In fact, many individuals start their broadcast media careers from podcasting. Podcasting is the process of receiving and transmitting audio content at a specific time and location.

In order to download a particular podcast, you may need podcatcher software. This program instantly transmits and downloads everything you receive from the podcasting source. You may find a list of podcatcher software available. Here are some recommended podcatchers.

1. Apple computer introduces the iTune podcatcher that features a media player, built in directory podcatcher, and a iPod updater. The operating systems available for this software are Windows Professional XP and MAC OS X.

2. Odeo podcatcher was created by Noah Glass. It comes with a Mac OS Widget, a deprecated built in directory and a podcatcher. It can be used on a Mac OS or 10.4 Window operating systems.

3. Another podcatcher is the Wizz RSS News Reader. Created by Wizz Computer Corporation that features a podcatcher that can read RSS downloads. Operating systems used on this software are Firefox Extension, Professional XP 2000, Mac OS X, and Mandrake 10.0 Window.

4. The Winamp podcatcher created by Nullsoft Corporation features a media player, a built in podcatcher that can update your mp3 downloads, and a music store. It can be uploaded in any kind of Windows operating system.

5. AmaroK podcatcher is also a product of Apple Computer that features a media player, an iPod updater and a built in directory. Operating systems needed is Linux KDE.

6. The Juice podcatcher created by the Juice Team Corporation features a software that has a built in directory podcatcher and a media player. Operating system needed to download files are Windows, GNU/Linux, and Mac OS X 10.3+.

7. Padlova podcatcher was introduced by Active8 Corporation and features a podcatcher that synchronizes with its web-based competition Padnova software. Operating systems for uploading files can be GNU/Linux, Windows, and Max OS 10.3+.

8. Nimiq podcatcher created by the Nimiq Team features a podcatcher especially made for Windows and a built in Bittorrent client upload. All windows program can run the software.

Podcatchers are new technological advancements created for the comfort of computer users. Users may have the luxury of choosing any kind of audio content to transmit. You may choose from the list of podcatchers to make your podcasting easy to grasp and understand.

Advertising Tips for Businesses New to Podcasting

According to Webster’s Dictionary, podcasting is the word of the year for 2005. Apple CEO Steve Jobs declared that over 10M iPod units have been sold and 80% of this has been racked up in 2004 alone. That doesn’t even take into account the rest of the MP3-MP4 market where spawns and imitations of iPod are sold for cheaper prices. Obviously, if a company wants to find a direct way to reach its target market, going live through podcasting is the only way to do it.

Fearless Prediction about Podcasting

The head honcho of Apple, the pioneer company in the MP3/MP4 audio player industry, believes that although podcasts are likely to remain free, users however must start getting used to having their feeds littered with commercials or advertisements. On the other side of the disc, experts believe that the future might see podcast providers charging their customers for specialized content.

Why Advertise through Podcasts?

Groundbreakers – In spite of the phenomenal popularity of iPods, it’s still considered as new technology. Thus, the podcast generation is made up of members unafraid to take the lead in technology and other fields. These people are always updated about what’s going on around them and are always “in the know”. If that matches the characteristics of your target market, you know what to do next.

Interest Guaranteed – Podcast ads lasts less than half a minute. Since these ads are so short, listeners wouldn’t bother skipping them. If your ads are placed at the beginning of the podcast, your ads are sure to be heard, whether the listeners intend to or not.

Perfect Match – If your ad’s significantly related to the podcast theme, your listeners would surely welcome hearing about your product, too.

Tips on Creating the Perfect Podcast Commercial

Keep it Short but Sweet – Time is of the essence; if you choose to make your commercial more than 15 seconds or 20 seconds tops, the length of your ad would force your listeners to skip it completely.

Simplicity is the Key – You have their attention, so there’s no need to accessorize your ad with sound effects. Get the message across in a straightforward manner.

No Funny Voices – Act natural. Podcasters are looking for great content, no more and no less.

The Last Tip:

It’s always better to have your ad placed at the beginning, or if possible, in the middle of the podcast. If it’s at the end, your listener might simply choose to end the session immediately without bothering to listen to the rest of your ad.

Podcasting Software, Anyone?

Lo and behold this long list of available podcasting software that enables everyone to listen and view podcasts galore.

See for yourself and check them out.

Audacity, this site has an open and free software that allows the easy editing and recording of sounds. Also, the site Easy Podcast is a graphical-user interface tool that is a cross-platform that allows the convenient publication of podcasts.

Windows has podcast software too

Contrary to popular belief, podcasts aren't dedicated solely to iPod or Macintosh users. The following are software available in Windows format.

BlogMatrix Sparks! This software is a solution that provides a complete answer to all your podcast needs. It allows you to mix, record, publish, share, listen and store, all in one package.

Another software is ePodcast Creator. This is an application that integrates podcasting features such as recording, editing, creating a feed in RSS and uploading the podcast file.

Podcasting software, and the list goes on.

The software ePodcast Producer is another complete software package that allows you to edit, record, create a feed in RSS, upload the podcast feed via one interface. Also, this software boasts of a compatibility to Real Audio and a CD ripping integrated feature, among others.

Another software is Escapepodder. This software allows you to generate automatically a feed in RSS as well as HTML for podcasts that are mp3 based in any given directory.

The FeedForAll software is a specific application that allows the streamlining, publishing and creating of feeds in RSS. Another software is Folio First, this basic software application supports podcasts and RSS.

The software Free Podcast Maker is another software that is simple and easy to use for the purpose of creating XML podcast files.

Podcast Accelerator is a module for podcasts for the automation system called NexGen Digital. Meanwhile, Podcast Auto Cue is a software used for cueing that displays one’s text in a window in a scrolling fashion.

Podifier is another simple software application that allows the automation and creation of a feed in RSS as well as enclosing mp3 files, ftp applications in order to upload these to a particular server.

Another software is PodProducer, this is a Windows application that offers free podcasting. Propaganda meanwhile is a software used for editing, reording and podcast publishing.

All in all, there are as many podcasting software currently available on the market as much as there are many podcasters out there who want to podcast their way to the world wide web. It is yours for the choosing and podcasting. Goodluck and pick wisely.

Selecting the Best Podcasting Format

Besides content and voice projection, format is another factor that affects the success of your podcasts. If you end up choosing the wrong content, the podcast may not be as effective and entertaining as it should be.

Types of Podcasting Formats

Interview Format – Your podcast will consist of one or a series of interviews. When using this format, make sure that you have a purpose for interviewing a particular person. If there is more than one person to be interviewed, there should be a clear link among all the interviewees. It’s okay, for instance, to make random impromptu interviews of strangers spending time in the park if you intend to ask them the same question, or you simply want to know how they’d react in a certain situation.

Call-In Show – Technically speaking, this is a difficult format to create, but it’s a very effective style to use, if you have a lot of wisdom to share on a particular topic.

Monologue – This format is dangerous to choose, as the listener can easily get bored. With monologues, you need to keep it short – if not, make sure the content is very interesting. Speaking of content, you need to talk about something that you have extensive knowledge of, or at least something that you’re PASSIONATELY interested in. Lastly, your voice must not be the type that puts people to sleep.

Dialogue or Debate Format – Interactions are usually more enjoyable than one-person-speeches. If there’s great chemistry between or among the speakers, this would be immediately felt by the listeners. The best topics for this format are those that people rarely agrees to, or are presently controversial.

Creative Format – You can do whatever you want. You can make a movie, sing a song, or recite lines of poetry. The content however must be original. And if you want your audience to grow, the content must again be very interesting!

Quiz Show – This is very easy to accomplish. Just make sure you have the right questions.

The Importance of Length and Content Matching

Besides focusing on the best podcasting format to use, make sure as well that you focus on other and equally important factors. Always choose a format that complements the topic of your podcast. Secondly, make sure that your podcast has the correct length: some podcasts last for only a few minutes, while others can last as long as two hours, just like a full-length movie. Never make your podcast longer than it should be, lest you want to risk boring your listeners.

The Corporate Podcasting Summit and How it Helps Present and Future Podcasters

Podcasting since its conception in 2000 has become a major part of online advertising and information dissemination. Indeed even non profit organizations are benefiting from the advantages that podcasting has given web surfers in terms of easy to access and distribute information.

The Corporate Podcasting Summit, having its own website at www.podcast-summit.com is one of the attempts of podcasting enthusiasts and other major business podcasters at introducing future business podcasters to the industry as well as giving out tips and guides to beginners in the field.

The Corporate Podcasting summit isn’t just a mud pit for beginners and green horns, case studies as well as recent developments that can be useful both to newbies as well as veterans in the field are also presented by the hosts.

And also partly due to the success of the North-American Podcasting summit, a European as well as an east coast summit is now under way for 2007.

Basically, the corporate podcasting summit covers topics such as:

- The resources that you’ll be needing and the actual cost of putting up a podcast in terms of actual dollars that you have to spend and labor.

- Investment return measurements are also provided in the summit.

- Because of the blurred lines in the law for this new technology, the summit discusses the basic legal and digital rights issues that a business podcaster needs to know.

- If that’s not enough, it also shows you the benefits of being an enterprise podcaster.

Among the Basic Topics discussed during the 2006 corporate podcasting summit are the following:

1. the past present and future of podcasting

- This topic includes how podcasting became an enterprise, the right way of podcasting as well as numbers, yes numbers, how many people are actually listening and how often they listen.

2. Podcasting 101

- The basics of podcasting, targeting portable devices, how to design infrastructure as well as hosting and other major technologies for podcasting and videoblogging.

3. Use of present Social media to your advantage

- A presentation to help understand how local media affects podcasting and how podcasting affects media. Also includes ways to connect and strengthen relationships with key audiences.

4. RSS 101

- Using RSS in podcasting, how many people are actually using RSS to receive podcasts, and how many people are switching to RSS. It is also a presentation on how to use RSS to your advantage by targeting audiences as well as optimize the relationship between the audience and the business.