I recently read a Wired Magazine article by Paul Boutin touting the death of Blogging, Twitter, Flickr, Facebook Make Blogs Look So 2004. Based on the needs and standards mentioned in the article, I agree with the "Blogs are Dead" pronouncement. It's the standards I don't agree with, or should I say, no longer agree with.
The idea that a blog is the best way to publish your personal memoirs is certainly passe, but that's not it's contemporary purpose. As mentioned in the article, Blogs have evolved into a convenient and useful way to publish long form content. I have to laugh at the idea that blog posts are now considered long form. Twitter's 140 char. limit has certainly redefined the meaning of long form.
As a dyed in the wool historic preservationist, I still see blogs as useful. Not as a historic relic, but as a candidate for adaptive reuse. By placing your blog closer to your web site, (similar graphic design, menu placement and such) I see not only a continued usefulness, but a bright future as well.
The word blog may disappear, but I believe the publishing structure will endure. In fact, I intend to expand my use of blogs to accomplish the following specific goals:
-
Newsletter Blog - The greatest benefit? Automated article archiving.
-
What's New Blog - When integrated into an existing website, creates a quick and easy way to update your content.
-
Individual Topic Blog - Creates a global platform for your favorite topic.
-
Event Blog - Used within a limited time-frame, allows you to connect and interact with attendees before, during and after an event.
-
Public Relations Blog - Compare the page layout of a blog to an online media room and you'll have a clear reason to use a blog to post and archive your press releases.
I've been involved with mobile telephony since the mid-80s, yet I now use a simple cell phone. I don't see the need to chase the latest technology because I know I'll have to read the manual, buy a different car adapter and reenter my entire phone book.
I can accept Twitter, Facebook and such as a better, more robust platform for online expression, but what happens when they grow up and get replaced with younger, sexier technology? Will we have to start the acquisition, learning curve all over again?
If I were you, I'd keep your blog, but perhaps invest in a face-lift or at least a banner tuck. One of the best ways to extend a blog's usefulness is to connect it to your other online channels. This blog is published using TypePad and allows me to connect to Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn and any other service I choose.
There are many ways to extend the value of your existing technology. I invite you to add a comment to share your favorite!
