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February 15, 2005
Why We're Abuzz About Blogs
According to Merriam-Webster, "blog" is the #1 word for 2004. And more and more of us are catching the blog bug this year. Here are five reasons why:
The word "blog" first surfaced in 1999 and has been gaining in popularity since then. Merriam-Webster defines it as "a Web site that contains an online personal journal with reflections, comments, and often hyperlinks provided by the writer." Translation: it's an online journal. A Pew Internet & American Life Project study estimates that 32 million Americans read blogs last year, translating to a healthy 58% increase in blog readership in 2004. But enough about last year, here's why blogs will be big this year and beyond...
5) They're short and easily digestible. Blog writers usually make their point and step aside.
4) They're frequently updated--usually daily. You're getting fresh news or at least a fresh point of view.
3) Blog writers are generally passionate and knowledgeable about the subject matter they're writing about.
2) You get to see what your colleagues have to say about the topic at hand.
1) It's your chance to get heard. Type your reaction. Hit post. You can try it right now.
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Comment
16 CommentsHow would one get into the blog information world?
February 15, 2005 6:14 PMHow do I access blogs?
It is all according to how you want to enter this exciting world, as a reader or a blogger.
As a reader of blogs you can read the blogs of choice and make comments on what you read. As a blogger you can create your own blog and use as your own personal journal.
To find blogs to read, go to any blog directory and search by topic. Here are some directories for you:
Blogwise, http://www.blogwise.com
Google Directory, http://directory.google.com/Top/Computers/Internet/On_the_Web/Weblogs/
Bloglines | Blog Directory, http://www.bloglines.com/dir
To create your own blog you can go to sites such as Blogger, http://www.blogger.com/start, and start your own.
We hope you enjoy our blog Industrial Market Trends and read it and comment on it often.
Welcome to the blogosphere!
Paul Gerbino
Publisher
ThomasNet Industrial Newsroom
http://news.ThomasNet.com
what does BLOG stand for?
February 16, 2005 9:23 AM"Blog" is not an acronym. It's a combination of "Web" and "log."
February 16, 2005 9:26 AMWhat are some opinions on blogs for business-to- business use? It seems to be a great outlet for current trends or events, but what about a 'product-centric' blog? Does it make sense? What is the marketplace response? What are some opinions about blogs being completely subjective and often self-serving?
February 16, 2005 10:42 AMJust another waste of time locked onto a computer reading opinionated advice that only leads to more wasted time on your computer, which only leads to more wasted time and weight gain, etc, etc. It's as bad as video games kids now waste all their time on learning how to kill and destroy. Rollen
February 16, 2005 12:52 PMWrong you are Rollen. Sure some Blogs are pure entertainment and soap boxes, but others are seeds to get people thinking and perhaps provide them with another way to look at things - it could be trivial or academic material.
PS - I find your comment about a waste of time to read opinionated advice ironic...
February 18, 2005 9:55 AM
