Wednesday, December 10, 2014
Crowd funding in 2014, the New Ecommerce strategy to gather capital for your project!
The twenty-first century, with break-throughs in technology has created innovative strategies for small and medium-sized businesses to raise capital to fund their projects. Conventional banks and lending institutions are crippled by extensive regulations including Dodd-Frank, which limits the amount of financial risk banks can take for small companies who want to market their product or service. As a result of this vacuum the need is being filled by the emergence of crowd funding. Crowd funding is becoming a lucrative source of capital for small businesses. This article will briefly look at 10 websites who are active players in this new industry. The Internet is filled with discussions about crowd funding. Fox news recently featured a 3D printing company who used crowd funding to bring their new $199 3D printer to market. New ideas create excitement and this draws millions of potential businesses and investors to this market place. Unfortunately we have found over 700 websites who claim to provide crowd funding. Our research has limited this number down to ten sites who are crowd funding sites with a strong track record of providing accurate and complete information to investors.
Let us ask the question… what crowd funding site is best for you?
As a crowdfunding industry reporter, I wanted to provide you an easy guide for which site to visit for your crowdfunding needs.
I’ll begin with a small overview of this industry, a short primer on the different kinds of crowdfunding models so you can find what you’re looking for, and then I’ll get to specific site recommendations.
The base of the Crowdfunding Industry
Collaboration on the web is an area of tremendous growth. Crowdfunding, or collaborative funding via the web, is one of the standouts for growth in this evolving collaborative economy.
The Crowdfunding Industry Report by Massolution provided data showing the general crowdfunding industry has raised $5.7 billion in 2013, across more than 2 million individual campaigns globally. In 2014 the industry is projected to grow to $7.1 billion.
Some of the most interesting developments in crowdfunding, which are expected to grow in the months and years ahead, include: investment crowdfunding, which is simply (becoming a shareholder in a company), localization (funding focused on participants in specific cities and neighborhoods), mobile solutions, and group-based approaches.
The JOBS Act that was passed in April of 2012 paved the way to investment crowdfunding; however, the JOBS Act Rulings by the SEC have yet to be fully implemented to formally start the market. Expect big movement and activity in this area in 2014 and 2015.
Crowdfunding Models
There are 2 main models or types of crowdfunding. The first is what is known as donation-based funding. The birth of crowdfunding has evolved through this model, where funders donate via a collaborative goal based process in return for products, perks or rewards.
The second and more recent model is investment crowdfunding, where businesses seeking capital sell ownership stakes online in the form of equity or debt. In this model, individuals who fund become owners or shareholders and have a potential for financial return, unlike the donation model.
Crowdfunding Sites You Can Choose From
Business owners are using different crowdfunding sites than musicians. Musicians are using different sites from causes and charities. Below is a list of crowdfunding sites that have different models and focuses. This list can help you find the right place for your crowdfunding goals and needs.
1. Kickstarter
Kickstarter is a site where creative projects raise donation-based funding. These projects will range from new creative products, like an art installation, to a cool watch, to pre-selling a music album. It’s not for businesses, causes, charities, or personal financing needs. Kickstarter is one of the earlier platforms, and has experienced strong growth and many break-out large campaigns in the last few years.
2. Indiegogo
While Kickstarter maintains a tighter focus and curates the creative projects approved on its site, Indiegogo approves donation-based fundraising campaigns for most anything — music, hobbyists, personal finance needs, charities and whatever else you could think of (except investment). They have had international growth because of their flexibility, broad approach and their early start in the industry.
3. Crowdfunder
Crowdfunder is the crowdfunding platform for businesses, with a growing social network of investors, tech startups, small businesses, and social enterprises (financially sustainable/profitable businesses with social impact goals).
Crowdfunder offers a blend of donation-based and investment crowdfunding from individuals and angel investors, and was a leading participant in the JOBS Act legislation. The company has localized crowdfunding and investment to help develop entrepreneurial ecosystems and access to capital outside Silicon Valley. Its unique CROWDFUNDING initiative in cities across the US and Mexico connects local investors with local entrepreneurs both online and offline, and does the work to validate top local companies in each city across the US and Mexico.
4. RocketHub
RocketHub powers donation-based funding for a wide variety of creative projects.
What’s unique about RocketHub is their FuelPad and LaunchPad programs that help campaign owners and potential promotion and marketing partners connect and collaborate for the success of a campaign.
5. Crowdrise
Crowdrise is a place for donation-based funding for Causes and Charities. They’ve attracted a community of do-gooders and fund all types of inspiring causes and needs.
A unique Points System on Crowdrise helps track and reveal how much charitable impact members and organizations are making.
6. Somolend
Somolend is a site for lending for small businesses in the US, providing debt-based investment funding to qualified businesses with existing operations and revenue. Somolend has partnered with banks to provide loans, as well as helping small business owners bring their friends and family into the effort.
With their Midwest roots, a strong founder who was a leading participant in the JOBS Act legislation, and their focus and lead in the local small business market, Somolend has begun expanding into multiple cities and markets in the US.
7. appbackr
If you want to create the next new mobile app and are seeking donation-based funding to get things off the ground or growing, then check out appbackr and their niche community for mobile app development.
8. AngelList
If you’re a tech startup with a shiny lead investor already signed on, or looking for Silicon Valley momentum, then there are angels and institutions finding investments through AngelList. For some time AngelList didn’t say that they did crowdfunding, which makes sense as they have catered to the investment establishment in tech startups, but now they’re getting into the game. The accredited investors and institutions on AngelList have been funding a growing number of select tech startup deals.
9. Invested.in
You might want to create your own crowdfunding community to support donation-based fundraising for a specific group or niche in the market. Invested.in is a Venice, CA based company that is a top name “white label” software provider, giving you the tools to get started and grow your own.
10. Quirky
If you’re an inventor, maker, or tinkerer of some kind then Quirky is a place to collaborate and crowdfund for donation-based funding with a community of other like-minded inventors. Their site digs deeper into helping the process of bringing an invention or product to life, allowing community participation in the process.
These 10 crowdfunding sites cover most campaign types or funding goals you may have. Whether you’re looking to fundraise or not, go visit the sites listed in this article that grab your attention and become involved in this collaborative community.
ABCO Technology offers classes for Ecommerce and crowd funding strategies. Please call us at (310) 216-3067 between 9 AM and 6 PM Monday through Friday. You can Email us at: info@abcotechnology.edu for a schedule of classes.
Bring your new idea or project to market today.
For more information Visit us Online @
ABCO Technology City Search Review
ABCO Technology - Better Business Bureau Reviews
Wednesday, October 15, 2014
CompTIA Security+ course information for Los Angeles
This week ABCO Technology has been focusing on the field of Internet security due to the DOJ’s indictment of five Chinese government officials for hacking into several large United States corporations.
Today’s article will discuss the entry-level certification for an information technology professional to enter the growing field of Internet security.
The CompTIA Security+ is vender neutral and offers a student an excellent opportunity to experience Internet security from the ground floor.
Why Security+?
•Approved by U.S. Dept. of Defense to meet IA technical and management certification requirements
•Chosen by professional staff at Hitachi Information Systems (Japan), Prestariang Systems Sdn. Bhd. (Malaysia) and U.S. government contractors such as CSC, General Dynamics and Northrop Grumman
•Updated every 3 years and part of the CompTIA Continuing Education program
Relevant Job Titles
•Security Engineer
•Security Consultant
•Network Administrator
•IA Technician or Manager
Plan your Career Path
Certification Information
The Security+ exam covers the most important foundational principles for securing a network and managing risk. Access control, identity management and cryptography are important topics on the exam, as well as selection of appropriate mitigation and deterrent techniques to address network attacks and vulnerabilities. Security concerns associated with cloud computing, BYOD and SCADA are addressed in the SY0-401 exam.
While there is no required prerequisite, Network+ or the A+ certification is recommended before taking the Security+ exam.
CompTIA is an ANSI accredited Certifier - 0731. The CompTIA Security+Ce program is included in the scope of this accreditation. The CompTIA Security+ certification may be kept current through the CompTIA Continuing Education program.
Test Details
Number of questions Maximum of 90 questions
Type of questions Multiple choice and performance-based
Length of test 90 minutes
Passing score 750
(On a scale of 100-900)
Recommended experience Minimum of two years of experience in IT administration with a focus on security
Languages English initially; other languages to follow
Exam codes SY0-401
ABCO Technology offers a wide range of Internet security courses, which includes the CompTIA Security +. Please call us to day for more information about our Internet Security program. You may phone us between 9 AM and 6 PM Monday through Friday at: (310) 216-3067. If email is your preferred way to communicate, please email us at:
info@abcotechnology.com.
Become an internet Security Professional today. This field is in demand.
Article by Melissa Waltch
For more information visit us online @
ABCO Technology - Yahoo Local
ABCO Technology - Crunch Base
Today’s article will discuss the entry-level certification for an information technology professional to enter the growing field of Internet security.
The CompTIA Security+ is vender neutral and offers a student an excellent opportunity to experience Internet security from the ground floor.
Why Security+?
•Approved by U.S. Dept. of Defense to meet IA technical and management certification requirements
•Chosen by professional staff at Hitachi Information Systems (Japan), Prestariang Systems Sdn. Bhd. (Malaysia) and U.S. government contractors such as CSC, General Dynamics and Northrop Grumman
•Updated every 3 years and part of the CompTIA Continuing Education program
Relevant Job Titles
•Security Engineer
•Security Consultant
•Network Administrator
•IA Technician or Manager
Plan your Career Path
Certification Information
The Security+ exam covers the most important foundational principles for securing a network and managing risk. Access control, identity management and cryptography are important topics on the exam, as well as selection of appropriate mitigation and deterrent techniques to address network attacks and vulnerabilities. Security concerns associated with cloud computing, BYOD and SCADA are addressed in the SY0-401 exam.
While there is no required prerequisite, Network+ or the A+ certification is recommended before taking the Security+ exam.
CompTIA is an ANSI accredited Certifier - 0731. The CompTIA Security+Ce program is included in the scope of this accreditation. The CompTIA Security+ certification may be kept current through the CompTIA Continuing Education program.
Test Details
Number of questions Maximum of 90 questions
Type of questions Multiple choice and performance-based
Length of test 90 minutes
Passing score 750
(On a scale of 100-900)
Recommended experience Minimum of two years of experience in IT administration with a focus on security
Languages English initially; other languages to follow
Exam codes SY0-401
ABCO Technology offers a wide range of Internet security courses, which includes the CompTIA Security +. Please call us to day for more information about our Internet Security program. You may phone us between 9 AM and 6 PM Monday through Friday at: (310) 216-3067. If email is your preferred way to communicate, please email us at:
info@abcotechnology.com.
Become an internet Security Professional today. This field is in demand.
Article by Melissa Waltch
For more information visit us online @
ABCO Technology - Yahoo Local
ABCO Technology - Crunch Base
Certified Ethical Hacking course for Los Angeles Explained
Today’s network environment is dominated by the threats of networking penetration, social engineering and direct fraud. Network professionals are required to possess a wide variety of skills to protect a network against attack. The United States government has indicted five Chinese government officials for hacking into the networks of United States private companies. Hackers are after information, which they believe to be highly profitable.
The practice of hacking once carried out by youth with a lot of time on their hands has given way to highly trained and professional hackers who are backed by major companies and governments having one goal in mind, which is stealing information, which will bring a large profit to the organization who can obtain this information.
Companies having proprietary data to protect are requiring their network professionals to have a certification demonstrating skills and knowledge in the field of computer hacking. This certificate is the Certified Ethical Hacker sponsored by EC Counsel. In this article we will provide an overview of the specific skills, which are required for the Certified Ethical Hacker Certificate.
Certified Ethical Hacker
Course Description
The Certified Ethical Hacker Program certifies individuals in the specific network security discipline of Ethical Hacking from a vendor-neutral perspective. A Certified Ethical Hacker is a skilled professional who understands and knows how to look for the weaknesses and vulnerabilities in target systems and uses the same knowledge and tools as a malicious hacker.
Course Duration
40 hours
Target Student: The Certified Ethical Hacker certification will fortify the application knowledge of security officers, auditors, security professionals, site administrators, and anyone who is concerned about the integrity of the network infrastructure.
Delivery Method: Instructor-led, group-paced, classroom-delivery learning model with structured minds-on and hands-on activities.
Benefits: This class will immerse the student into an interactive environment where they will be shown how to scan, test, and secure their own systems. The lab-intensive environment gives each student in-depth knowledge and practical experience with all current essential security systems. Students will begin by understanding how perimeter defenses work and then be led into scanning and attacking their own networks. Students then learn how intruders escalate privileges and what steps can be taken to secure a system. Students will also learn about intrusion detection, policy creation, social engineering, open source intelligence, incident handling, and log interpretation.
What's Next: The CEH Program certifies individuals in the specific network security discipline of Ethical Hacking from a vendor-neutral perspective. The Certified Ethical Hacker certification will significantly benefit security officers, auditors, security professionals, site administrators, and anyone who is concerned about the integrity of the network infrastructure.
Course Objectives:
• Developing the hacker's mind.
• Network surveying.
• Port scanning.
• System identification/OS fingerprinting.
• Vulnerability research and verification.
• Service identification.
• Internet application testing.
• Document grinding.
• Recognizing security issues within an organization.
• Performing legal assessments on remote/foreign networks.
• Examining an organization for weaknesses as through the eyes of an industrial spy or a competitor.
• Implementing the right tools for each task of the Methodology
• Competitive Intelligence.
• Exploiting vulnerabilities remotely.
• Examining appropriate countermeasures to thwart malicious hacking.
ABCO Technology offers a complete program to assist students interested in network security, which includes the Certified Ethical Hacker Certification. Call our school from 9 AM. To 6 PM. Monday through Friday at (310) 216-3067 to obtain more information about this program. You may Email our team at:
info@abcotechnology.com. ABCO Technology is located at 6733 S Sepulveda Blvd. Ste 106 Los Angeles, Ca. 90045.
Improve your network security skills today!
Article by Melissa Waltch.
For more information visit us online:
ABCO Technology - Yahoo Local
ABCO Technology - Crunchbase
The practice of hacking once carried out by youth with a lot of time on their hands has given way to highly trained and professional hackers who are backed by major companies and governments having one goal in mind, which is stealing information, which will bring a large profit to the organization who can obtain this information.
Companies having proprietary data to protect are requiring their network professionals to have a certification demonstrating skills and knowledge in the field of computer hacking. This certificate is the Certified Ethical Hacker sponsored by EC Counsel. In this article we will provide an overview of the specific skills, which are required for the Certified Ethical Hacker Certificate.
Certified Ethical Hacker
Course Description
The Certified Ethical Hacker Program certifies individuals in the specific network security discipline of Ethical Hacking from a vendor-neutral perspective. A Certified Ethical Hacker is a skilled professional who understands and knows how to look for the weaknesses and vulnerabilities in target systems and uses the same knowledge and tools as a malicious hacker.
Course Duration
40 hours
Target Student: The Certified Ethical Hacker certification will fortify the application knowledge of security officers, auditors, security professionals, site administrators, and anyone who is concerned about the integrity of the network infrastructure.
Delivery Method: Instructor-led, group-paced, classroom-delivery learning model with structured minds-on and hands-on activities.
Benefits: This class will immerse the student into an interactive environment where they will be shown how to scan, test, and secure their own systems. The lab-intensive environment gives each student in-depth knowledge and practical experience with all current essential security systems. Students will begin by understanding how perimeter defenses work and then be led into scanning and attacking their own networks. Students then learn how intruders escalate privileges and what steps can be taken to secure a system. Students will also learn about intrusion detection, policy creation, social engineering, open source intelligence, incident handling, and log interpretation.
What's Next: The CEH Program certifies individuals in the specific network security discipline of Ethical Hacking from a vendor-neutral perspective. The Certified Ethical Hacker certification will significantly benefit security officers, auditors, security professionals, site administrators, and anyone who is concerned about the integrity of the network infrastructure.
Course Objectives:
• Developing the hacker's mind.
• Network surveying.
• Port scanning.
• System identification/OS fingerprinting.
• Vulnerability research and verification.
• Service identification.
• Internet application testing.
• Document grinding.
• Recognizing security issues within an organization.
• Performing legal assessments on remote/foreign networks.
• Examining an organization for weaknesses as through the eyes of an industrial spy or a competitor.
• Implementing the right tools for each task of the Methodology
• Competitive Intelligence.
• Exploiting vulnerabilities remotely.
• Examining appropriate countermeasures to thwart malicious hacking.
ABCO Technology offers a complete program to assist students interested in network security, which includes the Certified Ethical Hacker Certification. Call our school from 9 AM. To 6 PM. Monday through Friday at (310) 216-3067 to obtain more information about this program. You may Email our team at:
info@abcotechnology.com. ABCO Technology is located at 6733 S Sepulveda Blvd. Ste 106 Los Angeles, Ca. 90045.
Improve your network security skills today!
Article by Melissa Waltch.
For more information visit us online:
ABCO Technology - Yahoo Local
ABCO Technology - Crunchbase
Tuesday, October 14, 2014
Apple’s new iPhone six could be a real game changing device in Apple’s brand history.
With the iPhone 5S and iPhone 5C, which were simple updates to previous models, there's a lot of pressure placed on the birth of the iPhone 6.
As per the norm, the internet is filled with rumor, speculation and some might say lies over this next-generation handset, which is why we spent our time reading through each nugget of information, debating its merits and curating it into this easy-to-read article for the technical land of iPhone 6.
According to a survey of 4132 US consumers, the iPhone 6 is the most anticipated Apple smartphone in the company’s history, with interest easily outstripping that of the iPhone 5S and iPhone 5.
Let’s peak at what Apple may have in store for us on the iPhone 6, thanks to the announcement of iOS 8 at WWDC.
From a bigger screen and camera to health monitoring and more storage capacity.
•What iOS 8 tells us about the iPhone 6
Some of you might have been expecting the iPhone 6 to have debuted in 2013, but given the iPhone's past history, from the 3G onwards, there's always been a half-step S model before the next numbered iPhone. We were never going to receive the iPhone 6 until 2014. In fact, it will actually be the iPhone 8 when the new product finally launches. But, who’s counting iPhones these days?
One thing is for sure, with the Samsung Galaxy S5, Sony Xperia Z2 and HTC One M8 now out, Apple needs to be on its game with the new iPhone - and many believe a bigger screen is simply a must have.
Let’s cut to the heart of the matter
•What is it? A major revision of the iPhone including entire design
•When is it out? September 2014 seems most probable
•What will it cost? Expect luxury pricing for a premium smartphone
Latest update: Taiwanese driving and movie star Jimmy Lin has posted some images to social network Weibo apparently showing off the 4.7-inch iPhone 6 alongside the iPhone 5S
IPhone 6 release date
The iPhone 6 release date will be in 2014 and it's looking increasingly likely that we'll see it in September, which would fit in nicely with the rollout of the newly announced iOS 8.
Apple has launched the last several iPhones at a special event in September, so the smart money has always been on September 2014 for the iPhone 6's birth.
Not to mention the fact that according to ifun.de, Apple is restricting holidays during September for employees at German Apple Stores, which strongly suggests a new hardware launch just might take place
What does all of this mean to an information technology professional?
The iPhone six will create the need for countless new applications. New hardware always opens the door for programmers to create those killer applications. The article mentioned health monitoring; do you have a new idea? If you are reading this article and have a strong desire to learn computer programming, you could be a future talented person who will design the next block buster application for the iPhone 6.
ABCO Technology located at 6733 S Sepulveda Blvd. Ste #106 in Los Angeles, Ca. 90045 offers a wide variety of computer programming courses. Call us today at (310) 216-3067 from 9 AM. To 6 PM. Monday through Friday. You can email us for a schedule of classes to:
info@abcotechnology.com.
Start developing innovative applications today!
Article by Melissa Waltch
For more information visit us online -
ABCO Technology - Yahoo Local
ABCO Technology - Crunch Base
Sunday, September 21, 2014
CRM development Classes in Los Angeles
Would you like to become an experienced developer who understands customer relationship management software systems? ABCO Technology will offer you courses that will give you the knowledge, experience and qualifications to implement a CRM system, which will work for you as a web developer. Here is some basic information about customer relationship management systems below so you can determine if you want to build a customer relationship management application for your clients.
Customer relationship management, CRM is a process implemented for managing a firm’s interactions with current and future customers. CRM involves using information technology to organize, automate, and synchronize sales, marketing, customer service, and technical support. There are significant differences concerning how a customer relationship management system is implemented between business to business or B2B and business to customer or B2C organizations. CRM Differences
B2B and B2C marketing operates differently, that is why companies are unable to use the same software for both business models. The differences are focused on the approach of these two types of business processes.
B2B companies generally have a smaller contact database than B2C firms.
The amount of sales in B2B is relatively small
In B2B there is less business propositions, but in some cases they cost a lot more than B2C merchandise.
Business relationships in the B2B environment are built over a longer period of time.
In the B2C model transactions will occur as a result of impulse purchases involving price instead of relationships.
When you become a B2B or B2C CRM developer, it is important to insure that you understand the major differences, which exist between Business to business and business to consumer CRM business models.
The Ecommerce and Web Development program offered by ABCO Technology will teach you the differences between the two business management systems. You will learn how to implement them for the benefit of your clients. A customer relationship management system will make or break any business. Learn to build an effective one to day. Please call us Monday through Friday from 9AM to 6PM to obtain class scheduling along with other important information you will need.
You can reach us at (310)216-3067 or Email us at:
info@abcotechnology.com
For more information visit us Online -
ABCO Technology - Pinterest
ABCO Technology - City Search
ABCO Technology - IT Training For Veterans
Customer relationship management, CRM is a process implemented for managing a firm’s interactions with current and future customers. CRM involves using information technology to organize, automate, and synchronize sales, marketing, customer service, and technical support. There are significant differences concerning how a customer relationship management system is implemented between business to business or B2B and business to customer or B2C organizations. CRM Differences
B2B and B2C marketing operates differently, that is why companies are unable to use the same software for both business models. The differences are focused on the approach of these two types of business processes.
B2B companies generally have a smaller contact database than B2C firms.
The amount of sales in B2B is relatively small
In B2B there is less business propositions, but in some cases they cost a lot more than B2C merchandise.
Business relationships in the B2B environment are built over a longer period of time.
In the B2C model transactions will occur as a result of impulse purchases involving price instead of relationships.
When you become a B2B or B2C CRM developer, it is important to insure that you understand the major differences, which exist between Business to business and business to consumer CRM business models.
The Ecommerce and Web Development program offered by ABCO Technology will teach you the differences between the two business management systems. You will learn how to implement them for the benefit of your clients. A customer relationship management system will make or break any business. Learn to build an effective one to day. Please call us Monday through Friday from 9AM to 6PM to obtain class scheduling along with other important information you will need.
You can reach us at (310)216-3067 or Email us at:
info@abcotechnology.com
For more information visit us Online -
ABCO Technology - Pinterest
ABCO Technology - City Search
ABCO Technology - IT Training For Veterans
Content Length Long Verses Short
For many years the deep secret of blogging was the 500-word blog post. It was the winning formula. These posts worked every time. Until it didn't.
Then in August 2013, Google updated their algorithm for showing search results for in-depth articles. Google explained this by saying that "up to 10% of users' daily information needs revolve around learning about a broad topic." And so we saw an influx of brands publishing upward of 2,000 words per post!
So, going forward, which form of content should you focus your content creation energy on: short or long, or perhaps a mix? If you go for a mix, then at what ratio? Let's look at some factors you need to consider that will help you make this decision.
A caveat before we proceed: I think we can all agree that content length for the sake of length is not just a dumb strategy, but it will backfire all of the advantages discussed below. So we'll continue this analysis with the hypothesis that all content being created, whether long or short, meets quality criteria (i.e., it is valuable, helpful, entertaining, etc.)
Marco Arment quote
Long-Form Content
Long-form content is described as content that is typically 2,000 words in length or thereabouts and makes for a compelling, insightful read. Examples of long-form content include whitepapers, e-books, guides, resources, videos, and webinars.
Pros:
•Google has a dedicated ranking mechanism for long articles.
•Keeps audience on site longer, increases engagement.
•Supports evergreen, foundational content.
•Presents a broader, deeper view on the topic.
•Caters to a deeply invested audience.
•Provides quality backlinks.
•Establishes credibility and thought-leadership.
Cons:
•People don't always have time to read.
•Short attention spans.
•Typically less shareable.
•Probably won't go viral.
•Length itself doesn't guarantee higher ranking.
Here's what experts in the long-form content camp have to say about its value:
Neil Patel quote
Marcus Sheridan quote
Short-Form Content
According to Matt Mullenweg, founder of WordPress, "The average post on WordPress is 280 words long, and that's remained 'relatively constant' over the past few years." Examples of short-form content include blog posts that are less than 1,000 words, list posts, Vine videos, and infographics.
Pros:
•People scan online, rather than read.
•Lends itself to being shared.
•Mobile-friendly.
•Attract more eyeballs.
•Potential to go viral.
•Fun!
Cons:
•Spouts me-too content.
•People have become blind to formulaic posts.
•Can't go in-depth into topic.
•Too shallow.
•May not provide enough info about topic.
People in the short-form content camp include Mark Schaefer and Jakob Nielsen.
Jakob Nielsen Quote
Mark Schaefer quote
Long vs. Short Content: Which Should You Create More of?
So, which form of content should you be focused on creating? Common sense would dictate that you produce both types of content because both serve a different need. But how you decide what ratio they should be in? How much long-form and how much short content should you be producing?
It really depends on six questions:
1. What Stage of Business Are You At?
Early-stage start-ups may not have the resources or time required to produce long-form content. They would be looking to gain traction sooner rather than later and so might prefer shorter stories that would be more likely to be shared.
Conversely, a business that's an industry heavyweight would have both the expertise and the resources to produce foundation-building evergreen long-form content.
2. What's Your Personality & Style?
Seth Godin produces blog posts in small spurts. That's his style. Is that your style? Does that suit your business's tone and voice?
Your decision to go long or short will also depend on what matches the style that is most authentic to your personality. You will attract an audience who loves you for your style and personality, rather than the other way around of building a style to support an audience you feel you should be catering to. I'm a big believer in being authentic because anything else is not a sustainable strategy.
3. What's the Goal of Your Content?
Your answer may be different if your goal is to be a NY Times best-selling author versus becoming your industry's go-to news guy. What are the goals you wish to achieve with your content: engagement, discussion, industry status, shareability, traffic, search rankings, or more?
It's OK for goals to evolve and change with time as your business grows. Develop content according to the goals it can achieve today.
4. What Platform Will It Be Consumed On?
It's a no-brainer to remember that people prefer consuming short-form content on their mobiles while they are on-the-go.
Tablets are traditionally used to read e-books and watch movies since we're comfortable with holding the lightweight devices in our hands for a longer time.
Desktops and laptops can potentially be used to consume both short-form (Twitter Web) and long-form (downloadable guides) content.
5. Who's the End Consumer?
Who's your audience: people bored on the Internet looking for something funny or industry professionals? The length of your content and therefore, its appeal, would depend on what kind of material your customer most prefers.
6. What Are the Topic's Requirements?
What does the topic itself require? For example, if you're tackling an ultimate guide that would naturally demand long-form content versus if you're writing about celebrity gossip.
Although for some businesses it makes sense to produce only long-form or only short-form content, for most of us, it makes sense to choose both.
So what should the ratio be? Some businesses might be more suited to producing more of long-form than short, while others may benefit from shorter bite-sized nuggets.
Summary
Analyze your business and decide for yourself how these six fields may influence your content length decision:
Long-Form vs Short-Form Content
These are rough guidelines, but you can use them as a starting point when deciding which type of content to produce. Ultimately, though, whichever form of content you create, it must meet your current goals.
Improve your website content today. Contact ABCO Technology Monday through Friday from 9 AM to 6 PM at: 310-216-3067 or email us at:
info@abcotechnology.com. Improve your content writing today.
For more information check out our reviews online -
ABCO Technology - Pinterest
ABCO Technology - Citysearch
ABCO Technology - Veterans It Training Los Angeles-
Then in August 2013, Google updated their algorithm for showing search results for in-depth articles. Google explained this by saying that "up to 10% of users' daily information needs revolve around learning about a broad topic." And so we saw an influx of brands publishing upward of 2,000 words per post!
So, going forward, which form of content should you focus your content creation energy on: short or long, or perhaps a mix? If you go for a mix, then at what ratio? Let's look at some factors you need to consider that will help you make this decision.
A caveat before we proceed: I think we can all agree that content length for the sake of length is not just a dumb strategy, but it will backfire all of the advantages discussed below. So we'll continue this analysis with the hypothesis that all content being created, whether long or short, meets quality criteria (i.e., it is valuable, helpful, entertaining, etc.)
Marco Arment quote
Long-Form Content
Long-form content is described as content that is typically 2,000 words in length or thereabouts and makes for a compelling, insightful read. Examples of long-form content include whitepapers, e-books, guides, resources, videos, and webinars.
Pros:
•Google has a dedicated ranking mechanism for long articles.
•Keeps audience on site longer, increases engagement.
•Supports evergreen, foundational content.
•Presents a broader, deeper view on the topic.
•Caters to a deeply invested audience.
•Provides quality backlinks.
•Establishes credibility and thought-leadership.
Cons:
•People don't always have time to read.
•Short attention spans.
•Typically less shareable.
•Probably won't go viral.
•Length itself doesn't guarantee higher ranking.
Here's what experts in the long-form content camp have to say about its value:
Neil Patel quote
Marcus Sheridan quote
Short-Form Content
According to Matt Mullenweg, founder of WordPress, "The average post on WordPress is 280 words long, and that's remained 'relatively constant' over the past few years." Examples of short-form content include blog posts that are less than 1,000 words, list posts, Vine videos, and infographics.
Pros:
•People scan online, rather than read.
•Lends itself to being shared.
•Mobile-friendly.
•Attract more eyeballs.
•Potential to go viral.
•Fun!
Cons:
•Spouts me-too content.
•People have become blind to formulaic posts.
•Can't go in-depth into topic.
•Too shallow.
•May not provide enough info about topic.
People in the short-form content camp include Mark Schaefer and Jakob Nielsen.
Jakob Nielsen Quote
Mark Schaefer quote
Long vs. Short Content: Which Should You Create More of?
So, which form of content should you be focused on creating? Common sense would dictate that you produce both types of content because both serve a different need. But how you decide what ratio they should be in? How much long-form and how much short content should you be producing?
It really depends on six questions:
1. What Stage of Business Are You At?
Early-stage start-ups may not have the resources or time required to produce long-form content. They would be looking to gain traction sooner rather than later and so might prefer shorter stories that would be more likely to be shared.
Conversely, a business that's an industry heavyweight would have both the expertise and the resources to produce foundation-building evergreen long-form content.
2. What's Your Personality & Style?
Seth Godin produces blog posts in small spurts. That's his style. Is that your style? Does that suit your business's tone and voice?
Your decision to go long or short will also depend on what matches the style that is most authentic to your personality. You will attract an audience who loves you for your style and personality, rather than the other way around of building a style to support an audience you feel you should be catering to. I'm a big believer in being authentic because anything else is not a sustainable strategy.
3. What's the Goal of Your Content?
Your answer may be different if your goal is to be a NY Times best-selling author versus becoming your industry's go-to news guy. What are the goals you wish to achieve with your content: engagement, discussion, industry status, shareability, traffic, search rankings, or more?
It's OK for goals to evolve and change with time as your business grows. Develop content according to the goals it can achieve today.
4. What Platform Will It Be Consumed On?
It's a no-brainer to remember that people prefer consuming short-form content on their mobiles while they are on-the-go.
Tablets are traditionally used to read e-books and watch movies since we're comfortable with holding the lightweight devices in our hands for a longer time.
Desktops and laptops can potentially be used to consume both short-form (Twitter Web) and long-form (downloadable guides) content.
5. Who's the End Consumer?
Who's your audience: people bored on the Internet looking for something funny or industry professionals? The length of your content and therefore, its appeal, would depend on what kind of material your customer most prefers.
6. What Are the Topic's Requirements?
What does the topic itself require? For example, if you're tackling an ultimate guide that would naturally demand long-form content versus if you're writing about celebrity gossip.
Although for some businesses it makes sense to produce only long-form or only short-form content, for most of us, it makes sense to choose both.
So what should the ratio be? Some businesses might be more suited to producing more of long-form than short, while others may benefit from shorter bite-sized nuggets.
Summary
Analyze your business and decide for yourself how these six fields may influence your content length decision:
Long-Form vs Short-Form Content
These are rough guidelines, but you can use them as a starting point when deciding which type of content to produce. Ultimately, though, whichever form of content you create, it must meet your current goals.
Improve your website content today. Contact ABCO Technology Monday through Friday from 9 AM to 6 PM at: 310-216-3067 or email us at:
info@abcotechnology.com. Improve your content writing today.
For more information check out our reviews online -
ABCO Technology - Pinterest
ABCO Technology - Citysearch
ABCO Technology - Veterans It Training Los Angeles-
Sunday, September 14, 2014
Content Length Long Verses Short
Content Length Long Verses Short
For many years the deep secret of blogging was the 500-word blog post. It was the winning formula. These posts worked every time. Until it didn't.
Then in August 2013, Google updated their algorithm for showing search results for in-depth articles. Google explained this by saying that "up to 10% of users' daily information needs revolve around learning about a broad topic." And so we saw an influx of brands publishing upward of 2,000 words per post!
So, going forward, which form of content should you focus your content creation energy on: short or long, or perhaps a mix? If you go for a mix, then at what ratio? Let's look at some factors you need to consider that will help you make this decision.
A caveat before we proceed: I think we can all agree that content length for the sake of length is not just a dumb strategy, but it will backfire all of the advantages discussed below. So we'll continue this analysis with the hypothesis that all content being created, whether long or short, meets quality criteria (i.e., it is valuable, helpful, entertaining, etc.)
Marco Arment quote
Long-Form Content
Long-form content is described as content that is typically 2,000 words in length or thereabouts and makes for a compelling, insightful read. Examples of long-form content include whitepapers, e-books, guides, resources, videos, and webinars.
Pros:
•Google has a dedicated ranking mechanism for long articles.
•Keeps audience on site longer, increases engagement.
•Supports evergreen, foundational content.
•Presents a broader, deeper view on the topic.
•Caters to a deeply invested audience.
•Provides quality backlinks.
•Establishes credibility and thought-leadership.
Cons:
•People don't always have time to read.
•Short attention spans.
•Typically less shareable.
•Probably won't go viral.
•Length itself doesn't guarantee higher ranking.
Here's what experts in the long-form content camp have to say about its value:
Neil Patel quote
Marcus Sheridan quote
Short-Form Content
According to Matt Mullenweg, founder of WordPress, "The average post on WordPress is 280 words long, and that's remained 'relatively constant' over the past few years." Examples of short-form content include blog posts that are less than 1,000 words, list posts, Vine videos, and infographics.
Pros:
•People scan online, rather than read.
•Lends itself to being shared.
•Mobile-friendly.
•Attract more eyeballs.
•Potential to go viral.
•Fun!
Cons:
•Spouts me-too content.
•People have become blind to formulaic posts.
•Can't go in-depth into topic.
•Too shallow.
•May not provide enough info about topic.
People in the short-form content camp include Mark Schaefer and Jakob Nielsen.
Jakob Nielsen Quote
Mark Schaefer quote
Long vs. Short Content: Which Should You Create More of?
So, which form of content should you be focused on creating? Common sense would dictate that you produce both types of content because both serve a different need. But how you decide what ratio they should be in? How much long-form and how much short content should you be producing?
It really depends on six questions:
1. What Stage of Business Are You At?
Early-stage start-ups may not have the resources or time required to produce long-form content. They would be looking to gain traction sooner rather than later and so might prefer shorter stories that would be more likely to be shared.
Conversely, a business that's an industry heavyweight would have both the expertise and the resources to produce foundation-building evergreen long-form content.
2. What's Your Personality & Style?
Seth Godin produces blog posts in small spurts. That's his style. Is that your style? Does that suit your business's tone and voice?
Your decision to go long or short will also depend on what matches the style that is most authentic to your personality. You will attract an audience who loves you for your style and personality, rather than the other way around of building a style to support an audience you feel you should be catering to. I'm a big believer in being authentic because anything else is not a sustainable strategy.
3. What's the Goal of Your Content?
Your answer may be different if your goal is to be a NY Times best-selling author versus becoming your industry's go-to news guy. What are the goals you wish to achieve with your content: engagement, discussion, industry status, shareability, traffic, search rankings, or more?
It's OK for goals to evolve and change with time as your business grows. Develop content according to the goals it can achieve today.
4. What Platform Will It Be Consumed On?
It's a no-brainer to remember that people prefer consuming short-form content on their mobiles while they are on-the-go.
Tablets are traditionally used to read e-books and watch movies since we're comfortable with holding the lightweight devices in our hands for a longer time.
Desktops and laptops can potentially be used to consume both short-form (Twitter Web) and long-form (downloadable guides) content.
5. Who's the End Consumer?
Who's your audience: people bored on the Internet looking for something funny or industry professionals? The length of your content and therefore, its appeal, would depend on what kind of material your customer most prefers.
6. What Are the Topic's Requirements?
What does the topic itself require? For example, if you're tackling an ultimate guide that would naturally demand long-form content versus if you're writing about celebrity gossip.
Although for some businesses it makes sense to produce only long-form or only short-form content, for most of us, it makes sense to choose both.
So what should the ratio be? Some businesses might be more suited to producing more of long-form than short, while others may benefit from shorter bite-sized nuggets.
Summary
Analyze your business and decide for yourself how these six fields may influence your content length decision:
Long-Form vs Short-Form Content
These are rough guidelines, but you can use them as a starting point when deciding which type of content to produce. Ultimately, though, whichever form of content you create, it must meet your current goals.
Improve your website content today. Contact ABCO Technology Monday through Friday from 9 AM to 6 PM at: 310-216-3067 or email us at:
info@abcotechnology.com. Improve your content writing today.
Check us out online -
ABCO Technology on Pinterest
ABCO Technology on LinkedIN
For many years the deep secret of blogging was the 500-word blog post. It was the winning formula. These posts worked every time. Until it didn't.
Then in August 2013, Google updated their algorithm for showing search results for in-depth articles. Google explained this by saying that "up to 10% of users' daily information needs revolve around learning about a broad topic." And so we saw an influx of brands publishing upward of 2,000 words per post!
So, going forward, which form of content should you focus your content creation energy on: short or long, or perhaps a mix? If you go for a mix, then at what ratio? Let's look at some factors you need to consider that will help you make this decision.
A caveat before we proceed: I think we can all agree that content length for the sake of length is not just a dumb strategy, but it will backfire all of the advantages discussed below. So we'll continue this analysis with the hypothesis that all content being created, whether long or short, meets quality criteria (i.e., it is valuable, helpful, entertaining, etc.)
Marco Arment quote
Long-Form Content
Long-form content is described as content that is typically 2,000 words in length or thereabouts and makes for a compelling, insightful read. Examples of long-form content include whitepapers, e-books, guides, resources, videos, and webinars.
Pros:
•Google has a dedicated ranking mechanism for long articles.
•Keeps audience on site longer, increases engagement.
•Supports evergreen, foundational content.
•Presents a broader, deeper view on the topic.
•Caters to a deeply invested audience.
•Provides quality backlinks.
•Establishes credibility and thought-leadership.
Cons:
•People don't always have time to read.
•Short attention spans.
•Typically less shareable.
•Probably won't go viral.
•Length itself doesn't guarantee higher ranking.
Here's what experts in the long-form content camp have to say about its value:
Neil Patel quote
Marcus Sheridan quote
Short-Form Content
According to Matt Mullenweg, founder of WordPress, "The average post on WordPress is 280 words long, and that's remained 'relatively constant' over the past few years." Examples of short-form content include blog posts that are less than 1,000 words, list posts, Vine videos, and infographics.
Pros:
•People scan online, rather than read.
•Lends itself to being shared.
•Mobile-friendly.
•Attract more eyeballs.
•Potential to go viral.
•Fun!
Cons:
•Spouts me-too content.
•People have become blind to formulaic posts.
•Can't go in-depth into topic.
•Too shallow.
•May not provide enough info about topic.
People in the short-form content camp include Mark Schaefer and Jakob Nielsen.
Jakob Nielsen Quote
Mark Schaefer quote
Long vs. Short Content: Which Should You Create More of?
So, which form of content should you be focused on creating? Common sense would dictate that you produce both types of content because both serve a different need. But how you decide what ratio they should be in? How much long-form and how much short content should you be producing?
It really depends on six questions:
1. What Stage of Business Are You At?
Early-stage start-ups may not have the resources or time required to produce long-form content. They would be looking to gain traction sooner rather than later and so might prefer shorter stories that would be more likely to be shared.
Conversely, a business that's an industry heavyweight would have both the expertise and the resources to produce foundation-building evergreen long-form content.
2. What's Your Personality & Style?
Seth Godin produces blog posts in small spurts. That's his style. Is that your style? Does that suit your business's tone and voice?
Your decision to go long or short will also depend on what matches the style that is most authentic to your personality. You will attract an audience who loves you for your style and personality, rather than the other way around of building a style to support an audience you feel you should be catering to. I'm a big believer in being authentic because anything else is not a sustainable strategy.
3. What's the Goal of Your Content?
Your answer may be different if your goal is to be a NY Times best-selling author versus becoming your industry's go-to news guy. What are the goals you wish to achieve with your content: engagement, discussion, industry status, shareability, traffic, search rankings, or more?
It's OK for goals to evolve and change with time as your business grows. Develop content according to the goals it can achieve today.
4. What Platform Will It Be Consumed On?
It's a no-brainer to remember that people prefer consuming short-form content on their mobiles while they are on-the-go.
Tablets are traditionally used to read e-books and watch movies since we're comfortable with holding the lightweight devices in our hands for a longer time.
Desktops and laptops can potentially be used to consume both short-form (Twitter Web) and long-form (downloadable guides) content.
5. Who's the End Consumer?
Who's your audience: people bored on the Internet looking for something funny or industry professionals? The length of your content and therefore, its appeal, would depend on what kind of material your customer most prefers.
6. What Are the Topic's Requirements?
What does the topic itself require? For example, if you're tackling an ultimate guide that would naturally demand long-form content versus if you're writing about celebrity gossip.
Although for some businesses it makes sense to produce only long-form or only short-form content, for most of us, it makes sense to choose both.
So what should the ratio be? Some businesses might be more suited to producing more of long-form than short, while others may benefit from shorter bite-sized nuggets.
Summary
Analyze your business and decide for yourself how these six fields may influence your content length decision:
Long-Form vs Short-Form Content
These are rough guidelines, but you can use them as a starting point when deciding which type of content to produce. Ultimately, though, whichever form of content you create, it must meet your current goals.
Improve your website content today. Contact ABCO Technology Monday through Friday from 9 AM to 6 PM at: 310-216-3067 or email us at:
info@abcotechnology.com. Improve your content writing today.
Check us out online -
ABCO Technology on Pinterest
ABCO Technology on LinkedIN
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)