Overview

This module looks specifically at blogging as an aspect of social network and with the emphasis on blogging for profit. We show you how it is being used in a business environment and how you can make it a part of your own business strategy. In particular:

• We show you how to make blogging a part of your online promotional strategy (either self or business) and the key principles you need to keep in mind when setting up a blog

• We show you how to organize your blogging activities

• We look at the top blogging sites and in detail at Blogger and WordPress and help you choose the environment that is right for you.

• Finally we will show you how to set up and manage a blog using Word, Blogger and WordPress.

This module assumes you have basic computer skills including access to the internet. To make use of social networks you do not need to be an experienced writer or to know the intricacies of Microsoft Office. One of the delights of social networking (and of blogging) is that they are tools that almost anyone can use.

Used in a class environment this module can be delivered in three hours (express) or over six hours (or one day) with tutorials and other learning exercises included. It is a precursor to the following module which deals in depth with the blogging environment.