one web day at Brave New Films

3 Things to Consider Before Using Web Audio

2009-01-08T00:40:56Z

There are three concerns, or questions, you need to consider before adding web audio to your media arsenal. The first question you need to ask is what's the purpose of my recording? Second, you need to decide the proper output format for your audio file. Properly formatting your file will allow the most users to listen. Also, whether you decide to use embedded audio or streaming audio will affect your server requirements. The last, and maybe most important, issue you will need to consider is your audience.

3 Things to Consider Before Using Web AudioBefore you create your audio recording, you will need to decide your recording's purpose. Too many recordings, or podcasts, are created without any planning or foresight. There are probably many topics that you are qualified to talk about. But that doesn't mean you should talk about all of them. Because podcasting is so widespread, your best option is to try to reach and underserved audience or introduce something new—or at least a new take on something old. Instead of trying to reach a massive audience, go for a small and focused group. Smaller audiences tend to be more loyal, especially if you're giving them something they want to hear.

Once you have your purpose, and topic, you'll need to pick an output option. Your choice of file format can greatly impact the quality of the audio. If you're speaking only, the MP3 format is the best. It's the most portable format and one most people are comfortable with. Whichever format you choose, you will need a good microphone and a decent sound editor to create your final product.

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Musings on the Podcasting Phenomenon

2009-01-08T00:40:55Z

Most people think of podcasting as the various independent audio shows that can be downloaded from websites. Podcast topics cover every subject you can think of — from marketing to gardening.

Musings on the Podcasting PhenomenonListening to podcasts is often referred to as radio on demand, similar to on demand television. There are endless options of content and programming. Listeners can decide when to listen, and where to listen, by downloading podcasts to a portable player such as an iPod.

Podcasting is having far-reaching effects on how we get our web content and is being used in new, creative ways. Web audio no longer represents downloading and sharing music files with your friends — as made popular earlier this century. Everyone from politicians to web marketers are now using podcasts to reach their target audience. Families are using podcasts to stay connected with each other while traveling for business or vacation.

Amateurs create podcasts on the fly as local, national, and global events unfold. Listeners are getting first-hand information from people who are in the midst of major events — often before the information hits the traditional media.

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Sunlight Foundation - One Web Day 2007

2008-10-24T09:30:59Z

In honor of OneWebDay the Sunlight Foundation created this video to spread the word about how the internet has helped create a more accountable government.

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