OLJ TASK: RSS

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Image Source: Smashing Magazine

RSS

RSS stands for Really Simple Syndication and can be used in libraries and information services to provide,”…alerts of changes and for syndicating content” (Godwin & Parker, 2008, p.25).  In this ubiquitous information age, RSS functionality allows the user to tailor information that is relevant to them. This is achieved by the user subscribing to a feed and is sent information to either a feed reader, email or internet browser. 
It is important to point out the ever changing nature of these technologies has seen in recent weeks Google Reader (which was a very popular news aggregator) has chosen to cease operation due to decline in usage. This gave users a very short time to download a copy of their saved information before all was lost.

Information Organisations and their use of RSS.

To illustrate, as a way of meeting Information needs, Bond University have installed RSS feed on their e-publications (scholarly information and research webpage).  This notifies subscribers of recent papers that have been lodged. The feed is also embedded into maybe databases where the end-user and subscribe to topics of interest.  Alternatively, Brisbane City Council Library use RSS feeds as a broadcast mechanism for events being held over the City Libraries.  

Godwin, P.&Parker,J.(Eds.).(2008). Information Literacy meets Library 2.0,London:Facet Publishing.

Google Reader Dies(2013). Retrieved from, http://www.ibtimes.com/google-reader-dies-end-internet-1329741#

OLJ TASK: Module 2 Web 2.0 Technologies and Software

It is with great interest I read this module, specifically micro blogging within organisations.  Many organisations have recognised the value of providing social networking opportunities for their staff to actively 'connect' with each other. Being connected through social media in the workplace is becoming increasingly popular. As Grenfell (2011) states, the main purpose of micro blogging is to offer a tool for members of an organisation to 'engage, listen and learn' (2011).  Last year my University management send a directive out that there were too many emails being distributed to the student body and staff.  As a result one staff daily digest is distributed along with implementation of Yammer as a communication tool.  Facebook inspired, Yammer provides a social media platform to facilitate projects, communicate updates and encouraging staff to collaborate, listen and learn.  Unofficially, the Associate Director of our organisation smiles upon usage of Yammer, the goal of our Librarians group is the same as many other social media goals, to create conversations and facilitate collaboration with the staff.  A few of my work associates I spoke to just groaned when I tried to pick their brain about Yammer, to them it is just ‘another tool to use’ and frankly they don’t have time or really the inclination to post or read other people’s posts. In my organisations case, the postings are limited to a passionate few. This highlights the fact, that just because social network is encouraged doesn’t guarantee participation. Less than 5 per cent of users actually participate, with many being passive participants (Grenfell,2011). So although I am not quite a Librarian, I joined the Librarians group with my personal goal of looking involved, yet I have not posted, I am too nervous that my posting will not be of quality.  Could it be that I am a passive participant or a lurker of social media?

Grenfell, Catherine, (2011), Deploying microblogging in organisations, retrieved from http://www.steptwo.com.au/papers/kmc_microblogging/index.html