What is a Blog?
A blog (a blend of the term web log) is a web site that is frequently updated with single articles (known as posts) that are displayed typically in reverse chronological order. These posts typically contain a mix of commentary, photographs, and video and generally are related to a particular topic. Many blogs allow visitors to interact with the author by leaving comments or sharing the article through social media. It is this two-way communication that distinguishes a blog from a typical web page.
How are Blogs Used?
Blogs are typically used to share ideas and information with a group of people on a variety of subjects. These can include but are not limited to:
- Personal diaries
- Opinion and editorial regarding a certain subject
- News and information
- Humor and entertainment
- Personal improvement
- Hobbies and crafts
Do I need a blog?
A blog can be a powerful tool and its benefits can be realized by its appropriate and frequent use. In fact, it’s a lot like a pet: it needs constant attention and responsible decision-making in order for it to prosper. If you feel like you are ready to begin the responsibility and challenge of coming up with content to write about on a regular basis for a sustained period of time, you are likely ready for a blog.
How can I get my own blog?
Blogs hosted by the University of St. Thomas are available to faculty and staff of the university. In order to get an official university blog please contact the IRT Tech Desk to begin a consultation.
What’s RSS stand for and what’s it mean?
RSS stands for “RDF Site Summary” but is often referred to as “Really Simply Syndication” and is a file format, or “feed” which contains itemized and summarized information about a website’s contents.
By owning a blog, these “feeds” allow editors of websites an easy way to automatically syndicate their content across a wide variety of devices and media.
Readers benefit by subscribing to RSS feeds which allow them to read summarized content of their favorite blogs and news sources without having to travel to the website itself. In addition, readers have the option of receiving updates in a timely fashion whenever their favorite website has new content. RSS Feeds can be read by a type of software called an RSS reader. These types of readers are available in a variety of formats including desktop software, mobile phone applications, and interactive websites.
Is it true that a blog can attract visitors to my website?
In short, yes. By creating articles that refer to your primary website and by writing on a regular basis, you increase the likelihood that additional visitors will find your website and explore its contents. For a longer explanation on how blogging can affect your website’s traffic please contact Web & Media Services for a consultation.