There are several benefits that can be associated with blogging, which explains why there has been a rapid growth of blogs over the years.
The core reason for the rise of blogs is because of its ability to communicate and share information effectively with others at a low cost. But a blog can beneficial to an individual or a group of people in many other ways, depending on what type of blog it is, and what the blog serves to the individual, the group, or the readers.
A good example to look at would be corporate blogs, as many companies have adapted corporate blogs as one of their marketing strategies because they see that corporate blogging is beneficial to their business and also to their customers.
Companies have started using blogs as a method of communicating to their audience in addition to traditional methods like websites, advertisements, and press releases. This is because blogs can bring more opportunities for the business, as the company can open channels to more markets and share their expertise and knowledge with a larger audience. And because a blog is usually updated regularly, the company can tailor its messages to their audience on a short notice. Some may argue that this works the same as a website; but the ability for readers to respond and discuss on a particular matter is what is most important. Comments, suggestions, feedback, and opinions about the company or their products and services are valuable information for the business as it can help the business to perform better; this is an effective way for companies to discover new business ideas. It is also an efficient way for customers to make enquiries about certain matters and receive a feedback quickly. Example of enquiries could include questions or information about the latest event, the new product or service that the company has introduced, or tips on how to use a product.
A blog is also an easy and simple tool to use. ‘Updating the weblog is a faster process than contacting a web designer with changes or doing the coding and uploading yourself.’ (Zahorsky, 2004) It is also less time consuming compared with other ways of communicating, like interviews, to audiences. As Mark Cuban, owner of Dallas Mavericks, quoted in his email to BusinessWeek Online, “I can spend three hours talking about a topic, and the media will edit it to fit the three-minute segment or 500 word column. That’s far from the most efficient way to communicate.� (Kharif, 2004)
Companies like Microsoft make use of their blogs, written by Microsoft employees, to give tips and support to their customers, where customers can ask questions and find answers about technical problems or any general questions about Microsoft.
Blogging is a new way for businesses to communicate with their customers and this can enhance the business and brand name. Not only is it effective in sharing information with customers, it is also very effective in gaining valuable information from customers; the company can create a more personal relationship with their customers. The cost of blogging is minimal, and is also easy and convenient to set up and maintain.
References:
Zahorsky, D. 2004. What Are the Benefits of Blogging for Small Businesses? Available: http://sbinformation.about.com/od/businessblogfaq/f/businessblogs8.htm (accessed: 26 October, 2004)
Kharif, O. 2004. Blogging for Business. Available: http://sbinformation.about.com/gi/dynamic/offsite.htm?zi=1/XJ&sdn=sbinformation&zu=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.businessweek.com%2Ftechnology%2Fcontent%2Faug2004%2Ftc2004089_3601_tc024.htm (accessed: 26 October, 2004)
Links to Related Websites:
Microsoft Community Blogs: http://www.microsoft.com/communities/blogs/PortalHome.mspx
LAI Kuan Jung 14:24, 26 Oct 2004 (EST)
