RSS feeds allow websites to notify users of new or changed content so that they don’t have to remember to visit the website frequently. This makes it easier for internet users to keep up with new information from websites of interest, and helps website owners remind users of their websites. Read on to learn how you can subscribe to RSS feeds and/or create one on your website…

SUBSCRIBE: You will need to download and/or sign up for an RSS reader application before subscribing to RSS feeds, unless your web browser has a built-in reader (like IE 7.0 or Safari 3). These are usually free, and offered by a variety of websites, including Google, NewsGator, and RSSReader.com. Some are web-based, while others are stand-alone software applications. Then find a feed you are interested in and click the link to subscribe to it, or enter the feed’s URL directly into the reader. Many popular websites feature one or more feed, including Yahoo! News and CraigsList.org.

CREATE: There are several different methods to create a feed for your website or blog. You can enter the code yourself; some websites provide instructions on doing this, and it doesn’t appear to be especially complicated. You can also use software such as “FeedForAll”, hire a programmer, or use a blogging service which will automatically create your feed (like TypePad). According to webreference.com, it is also possible to convert portions of your website into RSS feeds using the DreamWeaver web design program. Books on how to create these feeds are available, such as “Syndicating Web Sites with RSS Feeds For Dummies” and “Beginning RSS and Atom Programming,” which are both listed on Amazon.com.

USES: These feeds can be applied to a variety of website content in addition to news articles. They can also be used to notify users of new website features, updates for software they download or purchase from your website, information on website downtime, or new accessories available for a particular product. If it isn’t obvious, be sure to explain why users should subscribe to your RSS feeds, and give them instructions on how to subscribe as well.

While RSS feeds have become quite popular, keep in mind that some users will continue to prefer more traditional notification methods like e-mail groups and newsletters, either because of their personal preferences or older computer hardware.

Overall, RSS feeds are not very difficult to subscribe to or create, and can be applied to a variety of useful purposes.

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