I’ll admit it. I’m about to earn a Master of Technical and Professional Communication degree, but I’m not technologically saavy. I can write about and communicate technical information to others, but doing it is a different story. For instance, before a couple weeks ago, I knew what a podcast was (sort of), but much like I am still mystified by the inner workings of the Web, I didn’t know how it worked. I also didn’t really see the point of podcasts or understand why people couldn’t just turn on the radio or the TV for audio information. Isn’t the Web for exchanging visual information quickly and conveniently, and maybe downloading your favorite music? No, Karen, it’s not just for that. And for anyone else who is quick to cast doubt on podcasts…no fear, I’m here to enlighten you.

As a technical communicator, I can tell you that podcasts pass the user-friendly test. Meaning…they are easy to use AND useful! The best way I’ve heard them described, actually, is as a combination between the immediacy and relevance of an RSS news feed (see previous post for the scoop on RSS!) and the online audio that MP3s allow. You can subscribe to podcasts, meaning your favorite audio information comes to you rather than you having to search for it. And, much like the forum phenomenon I talked about last week, there is a podcast for everyone. Interested in gardening? Politics? Video games? It’s all there, accessible through just a few clicks. A health-oriented podcast like the one produced by NPR is more my style. As a burgeoning hypochondriac and self-proclaimed crazy runner, I want to be sure I get regularly stressed by the latest health concerns.  NPR, it’s no suprise, has podcasts to meet just about everyone’s interests (or obessions), including music podcasts. What was a surprise to me was how easy it was to subscribe…just click “subscribe” and choose how/where you’d like to access it, using programs like iTunes and Yahoo.com. What’s easier to access than iTunes and Yahoo?!  You only have to subscribe once, and you will automatically receive updates of your chosen podcasts.

But why do we need to listen to this information, instead of the “old-fashioned” way of simply reading it online? In my case, there are hundreds of websites I can visit to learn more about health. But I don’t, mainly because I am too busy with school and whatnot. Podcasts allow you to multi-task (I <3 multitasking)! I can simply listen to the latest health tips and trends while I’m researching online, cleaning, running, getting ready for class, etc., instead of having to take the time to read the information. Glorious!

There are other benefits of producing your own podcasts, too, particulary for businesses and individuals with a message to deliver. Different people  like to access their information in different ways, so you can reach a broader audience. It also helps match a voice to a product or service, which helps you build a more intimate relationship with customers.

Still need more convincing about the usefulness and efficiency of podcasts? Social Media Trader explains the ease of using them and elaborates on the benefits I mentioned.