Routes to New Networks

A Guide to Social Media for the Public Transportation Industry

Media Blogs

Audio/Video Blogs

An audio/video blog is a blog – often referred to as a podcast – that is prerecorded for users to watch and listen to rather than read. These are similar to written blogs in that authors create the content and broadcast via their medium of choice, but more closely parallel a talk radio show or television program. Podcasts have gained popularity due to their ability to be downloaded to a computer or mp3 player and accessed at the user’s discretion. The term “podcast” can also refer to a series of these audio or video blogs.

Top Transit Usage

Podcast

Create podcasts for riders who may need additional instruction on hopping aboard.

Because podcasts are performed much like a talk radio show or television program, they often have a focus around informing the public about a specific issue or topic. With freedom for users in creating the length, format, and approach, podcasts have the ability to appeal to a very “niche” audience. However, to appeal to a broader audience, podcasts should have a conversational tone and be more entertaining rather than purely educational.

Key Terms:

  • Episode - one “podcast” in a series.
  • Podcaster - a creator of podcasts.

Many podcasts are created by bloggers who wish to discuss to their blogs with readers or address topics in their industry. Users can also find podcasts through the syndicating services. The two most common podcast syndicating services are iTunes™ and Podcast. com™. A full analysis of each tool can be found on the following pages.

Examples

The Chicago Transit Authority posts monthly 30 minute television programs.



How to Create and Upload a Podcast

i-Tunes™
To upload a Podcast to iTunes your organization must have a valid iTunes ID. Users must submit their Podcast via the iTunes store and wait for approval by Apple.

Podcast.com™
To add a Podcast you must fist have it hosted on another site. To submit a Podcast to Podcast.com on the homepage click “Add a Podcast” and insert your organization’s Podcast RSS feed.



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(2.9 MB PDF
Nov 23, 2009.)