0 - Intro
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What is podcasting?
A method of distributing media files via subscription. It's been around since mid 2004 when Adam Curry created a simple application to exploit a previously under-utilized tag in RSS called "enclosure". More on this later, when we talk tech stuff. But this allowed users to "subscribe" to a "channel" much like you do to a newspaper. Whenever a new show is available on that channel it will be delivered to subscribers automatically (whenever their computer is available to receive it). This is a hybrid push-pull distribution model. The publisher pushes their shows to subscribers who receive it on their terms. They can then listen from their computer, wire it to their stereo, or put it on portable devices like an iPod, etc.In September, 2004, Curry published his first podcasts, I jumped on later that month (I think I was #121 or so) and by the new year there were over a thousand podcasts available. There are now 10s of thousands and it really has become a moot point as podcasts are now often created on the fly. It's that simple.
What is a podcast?
A media file, most often a simple MP3 audio file, but can be video, animation, graphics, etc.. Generally thought of as "radio" shows, but by no means should we limit our definition. I'll highlight samples of a variety of formats so you can see the possibilities that may apply to your organization's mission.What's required for podcasts?
A publisher (broadcaster) and an audience (listeners). We'll cover the technical aspects later, but the basics are the same as in broadcassting...put a signal out there and hope people listen. By creating captivating content and through a minimal amount of promotion, you can build an audience.How do you promote your podcasts?
It still works largely by word of mouth (or blog, etc.), but networks (or agrigators) like IT Conversations provide a wealth of content for segments of listeners who may share certain niche interests and therefore this is the most successful means to find your audience: target one that already exists and align yourself with partners in that niche.Steps to getting started
Most importantly, start producing content. This is not rocket science and the tools to get going are largely free. Shows don't expire (unless you want them to) and your audience can always catch up. Your biggest challenge is in designing and producing shows that have meaning to your audience and this takes time. The more you do it, the better you understand the dynamics involved. The cost of entry is so low that the only barrier is time and resources.What about DRM / Copyright / Ownership?
The content itself is a media file. Right now podcasting is based on an open standard and they are generally freely available, but there's nothing to keep publishers from controlling their content. The files themselves can be "protected" by DRM. The servers that host the files can be "protected" as well (an intranet or VPN, for example, isn't available to the general public). As the tools and client softwares evolve there will no doubt be any number of permutations emerging just as they have in every other distribution method.
Copyright and Ownership is in complete control of the creator. Podcasts are IP and are, by default, protected by US copyright law. There are licensing issues that remain somewhat fuzzy (is it a broadcast or a file transfer or a mechanical reproduction?). It is very important for producers to define the intended use of their content and act accordingly. Similarly, producers need to follow existing copyright rules about incorporating other people's IP within their own podcasts. There are no new rules here, but it does require attention if only to be able to communicate it appropriately.
downloadOctober 1, 2005 09:12 PM
