In the fourth chapter of Journalism Next, Briggs shares lots of interesting and valuable information about microblogging.
Microblogging has become one of the most popular and most talked about ways of online communicating over the past few years. In fact, Briggs says the most common microblogging program, Twitter, reached 44.5 million users in June ’09.
That’s not surprising.
Is there ever a day when you don’t hear some form of the word “tweet?” I am guessing probably not.
Although Twitter usually gets the most hype, other microblogging sites such as FriendFeed and Tumblr, have a very strong following as well.
Many people actually subscribe to all three sites and utilize them together for better microblogging.
When looking back to the beginning, Briggs discusses how text-based communication (text messaging and IM) was what inspired the microblogging generation.
Because of this huge following, journalists are getting to enjoy the benefits of having tons of “tweeter” friends that can provide them with up-to-date and breaking news.
In other words, journalist’s know it’s always about the interactivity, and microblogging is probably the best way to find it.
Credits to thefinestwriter.com
Unlike blogging or writing newspaper articles, microblogging really just involves writing one sentence or two, and also writing more frequently throughout the day. And sometimes you don’t even need to write anything at all because it’s common to just publish photos, video, or links to other different Web sites.
All in all, Briggs let’s us know that microblogging has become a way of life. And I don’t see that changing any time soon.
As for me, I think this chapter has convinced me to finally give in and join the 44 million+ microbloggers out there. I guess it’s time to start my tweetin’.
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