Podcast

=What is a podcast?= A podcast is an episodic media file (either audio or visual and audio) that is downloaded using RSS (Really Simple Syndication). Basically, once you subscribe to a podcast, the RSS feed will automatically download new content to your RSS feeder or podcasting site (like iTunes). The files are then available to you whenever you need them. These files can be viewed or listened to on any device that can play them (computers, mp3 players, smart phones).

=**Who uses podcasts?**= The uses of podcasts are practically infinite. They have been used in many genres of media, from public services such as audio tours of museums to promotional material such as previews and behind the scenes footage for movies. Podcasts can provide information, educational material, news, politics, or entertainment. They are a very versatile medium that can be used in many areas of society.

Since podcasting is free to download and cheap to make, anyone can use it. All they need to do is go to a podcasting site and download the podcast they are interested in or make their own podcasts. People can release podcasts to share their opinions or expertise and learn from others who do the same. Teachers can use them to share lectures and information. In turn, students can use educational podcasts to watch missed lectures or to supplement their notes. News sources can use podcasts to release audio versions of stories and interviews; people who subscribe to these podcasts can stay up-to-date on current events. Podcasting is a versatile technology that is equally useful to both creators and consumers.

=**How is this relevant to technical communication?**= Any position that requires the use of audio or visual files that are easy to update and release can use podcasting. Some specific examples include:
 * Creating guided tutorials for products
 * Sharing professional knowledge with others in the field
 * Releasing news about updates or new releases of products

=**Related information/resources**= These sources can go more in-depth about what podcasting is.
 * []
 * []
 * []

http://www.edisonresearch.com/2010%20Edison%20Podcast%20Study%20Data%20Graphs%20Only.pdf
 * Statistics taken from study conducted by Edison Research**