Really Simple Syndication (RSS) is a vital tool for bloggers, that is true, but does it have advantages for the nonblog website? RSS is a technology that utilizes XML to announce when a site is updated. For bloggers, the advantage is obvious. People who follow blogs want to know when a new post is made. RSS allows the blog author to send out that information automatically. So how might a nonblogging site use RSS? To answer that question, take a close look at Apple.
Apple is undoubtedly one of the go-to sites for technology. Apple is also a company that knows how to take advantage of RSS feeds. Apple provides RSS for ITunes, company news, developer information, knowledge base and seminars announcements, just to name a few.
Companies that want to keep their customer base aware of new inventory can work within the RSS structure to feed this information. As Apple demonstrates, one company can utilize RSS for various services. It can be a way to market online discount programs to VIP subscribers or keep stockholders up-to-date on critical business statistics. The only limitation is your imagination. A smart business person will scrutinize his interests and find where RSS feeds might be an advantage. Think of RSS as a mailing list that current and potential customers can use to stay up-to-date on what you have to offer.
The procedure for creating the XML file for a nonblog site is the same is it would be for blogging. Write an XML file for the feed, validate it and then upload it to your server. Once you have the scripting in place, set up a spot on your website for customers and visitors to subscribe. You can offer different feeds for different information.
Sample RSS XML File
<?xml version= “1.0” ?>
<rss version= “2.0”>
<channel>
<title>New Arrivals</title>
<description>We Have New Stock Available </description>
<link>http://www.mycompany.com/newinventory.html</link>
<lastBuildDate>last update </date>
<pubdate>Today‚s date</date>
<item>
<title>New Stock Item</title>
<description>What the New Items is </description>
<link>http://www.mycompany.com/item</link>
</item>
</channel>
</rss>