Challenge #3 - RSS

Really Simple Syndication.

Seriously. That what it stands for.

And we know you've seen the symbol too.

Looks familiar, doesn't it?

RSS is actually a file format for delivering regularly updated information over the Web. Further translation: the news and information you want will COME TO YOU instead of you going to it.

Again, we'll check in on Lee at Common Craft for a really simple summary of RSS:




So here's the deal. All those web pages you find yourself checking multiple time per day?? No need to do that anymore. All you need is a reader and subscriptions to your favorite sites.

There are lots of available readers out there, including Bloglines, Newsgator, and Google Reader. Since you've already set up an iGoogle page, Google Reader is a logical choice, as it can be added as a gadget on your home page.

Our Challenge to You:

• Set up an account with Google Reader. Use the same username/password you did for your iGoogle page.
• Important: Look around on this blog for the RSS icon and click on it, the select "Add to Google." You'll have a choice between adding it to your iGoogle page or to your Google Reader. Add it to the GOOGLE READER. (Adding it to the iGoogle page makes each subscription separate, while adding it to your reader keeps all subscriptions together). Adding Kurt & Kelly's Web 2.0 Challenge to your reader will ensure that you get each upcoming challenge that we post.
• Go to the "Add Stuff" link on your iGoogle page, search for the Google Reader gadget, and add it to your page.
  
• Never miss a news story or blog post again. They'll come right to your Reader in your iGoogle home page!
  
• Click on the screencast below for a step-by-step tutorial.

Points of Discussion for Your Blog:

• Have you made use of RSS feeds and readers before this?
  
• Do you think this is a Web 2.0 tool that you'll continue to use? Why or why not?
  

Take It a Step Further: (Optional)

• Set up Google Reader on your phone. (See the article below for assistance.)
• Check out the "Top Recommendations" on your Google Reader page. These suggestions are made to you based on your current feeds.
  

Want to Know More?

The Official Google Reader Blog - by Google
Google Reader on your Phone - by Google Mobile