Here’s this week’s list of items that have caught my attention, and why I recommend that you check them out.
At the top of this week’s list:
Corporate Blogging, by Fredrik Wackĺ , for the Danish publication Kommunikations Forum, July 5.
Need a good, basic article on corporate blogging to help persuade your boss that your company should try it? One that sounds positive but realistic, and that clearly acknowledges the pitfalls of company blogs? Something that’s practical, brief, and not too technical? This is the one. (Yes, it’s in English.)
Read the rest of this week’s list…
- A blank canvas is too confusing (July 4, Infosential’s Cutting Through weblog): Disputing a June 9 contention made by Frank Carver, this brief Cutting Through entry observes that people often need some specific guidance if you want them to start experimenting with a new collaboration tool such as wikis in their work environment. Presenting them with a “blank page” often produces blank stares.
I’ve seen this phenomenon too. But usually, I don’t think the problem is that people are confused. Personally, I’ve observed that many people are terrified of creativity – either their inner critic is too powerful, or they worry (perhaps justifiably) about having their first fumbling efforts scrutinized and criticized by peers or colleagues. In short, they’re afraid to just “play.” That’s a sad situation, but it’s a reality that must be faced when introducing change – especially creative or collaborative change. Don’t fault people for being scared of a blank page. Give them some direction. They’ll generally ease up once they feel safer.
- If you were a bike, what would you blog? This cracks me up – The Austin American-Statesman publishes a blog that purports to be written by Lance Armstrong’s bike. Yes, his bike. It’s actually pretty funny. Now I’m just waiting for John Edwards’ comb to start blogging from the campaign trail. (Thanks to Cyberjournalist.net for that link.)
- Intriguing corporate use of webfeeds: Check out the Nokia Content Syndication Forum. Nokia is using a set of webfeeds to keep its developers of wireless applications and content updated. It’s quite extensive and detailed. Read the FAQ to learn more. A creative and ideal use of this new medium.
- The game of politics: For awhile now, some news sites have recognized the potential using interactive games as tools to explain various aspects of news stories. That concept is spreading. In Political games online, Cyberjournalist.net gives several examples of how online games are being used to explore, explain, and mock current politics and politicians. Personally, I’m waiting for someone to debut a “Presidential Horserace” game.
- My favorite headline of the year, so far: From Wonkette, June 28, concerning the early transfer of power in Iraq: Premature Iraqulation.
- Stupid Web Tricks from Builder.com. Normally CONTENTIOUS doesn’t cover Web development or design, but this is a very practical, concise, and fun collection of tips that I’ve found helpful on many occasions. Some of them specifically relate to content presentation issues, such as dynamic content.
