Microblogging
What is it?
Microblogging is a form of blogging that allows users to make posts with a limit of 140 characters which is similar to the Short Messaging Service used in cell phones. A microblog is a shorter version of an actual blog with each post containing just one or two sentences. It can be done from anywhere; through instant messaging, cell phones or even through e-mail. Microblogging services are offered by various sites for example Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook, MySpace, etc.
Different microblogging services:
Twitter is one of the top microblogging sites in the world. When we say microblogging, we immediately think of Twitter. Twitter is used by millions around the world and is very easy to use. You can make posts via any device as long as you have an internet connection.
Jaiku
Jaiku in many ways is very similar to Twitter and hence is its closest competitor. Many features are similar and both and very smooth and easy to use.
Pownce
Pownce is a fairly recently established microblogging site. In addition to the normal posts and updates, it also offers the possibility to sharing pictures, links and videos easily with your friends. But Pownce is being shut down now. It’s joining the team of SixApart.
Tumblr
It is one of the best looking microblogging tools with new and innovative temples made by a specially hired designer. It does have some downfalls like it does not allow you to import your contact book and also it does not allow you to send private messages to your friends. But it emphasizes sleekness and elegance and is very simple to use.
Fraz
This site is mainly for the French and German. It is very similar to twitter but is not in English.
Facebook, LinkedIn, Tumblr, etc.
They use microblogging in just one or two sentences; known as status updates.
Twitter ranked 287 in Alexa as of March 2009. Here are other popular English microblogging sites (with Alexa ranking): Tumblr (2,551), Plurk (6,629), Jaiku (59,281), Kronologger (347,889) in Indonesia, Hictu (719,358), Pacmee (899,739) in Malaysia, MoodMill (964,712), I Rate My Day (1,066,114) and MySay (1,846,084).
Uses of microblogging
Many microblogging services like Facebook and twitter are being used for advertising and brand promotion. This is a clever strategy used by public relation officials as more and more people nowadays are entering the world of microblogging,
Police use the help of microblogging sites to catch disturbed individuals and dangerous criminals.
As microblogging is the shorter version of blogging it is preferred by people who do not have time to sit and write long blogs or for those who prefer using their cell phones.
Disadvantages of microblogging:
One of the issues with microblogging or actually any type of social networking is privacy. It is difficult to maintain. Users themselves are not careful about publishing personal information on their blogs. This makes it even more difficult for the sites to protect their users’ privacy.
The character limit of just 140 words may feel limiting to some people but if those people want to write long essays then they should make use of normal blogging sites like www.blogger.com
Conclusion
Microblogging is the new fad taking over the lives of the present generation. It is not a bad thing as it improves communication between individuals and strengthens bonds. It helps fans follow the lives of their favorite celebrities and lots more stuff. My advice to everyone is: Just go with the flow.
- Karnika Ray
Tags: blogging, facebook, microblogging, privacy, simple, social networking, twitter
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