Are You Googlized?

If you asked ten random people walking down the street if they knew what Google is, I am sure the answer would be “Yes”, along with some confusion as to why you would ask the question, because let’s face it, everyone knows Google. Most of us take part in Google multiple times a day. This can include the search engine, YouTube, Google Docs, Google Hangouts, or even Blogger. Is that a problem?

How difficult would it be to go throughout your day without using a product of Google? Personally, it would take a conscious effort, and I would have to go out of my way to not use it. This frustrates me for a few reasons.

            1- It would be unnecessary effort to not use Google, when it’s readily there.
            2- I do not like the fact I am so dependent on one franchise.
            3- It creeps me out a little bit that without Google, I would feel a little lost on the internet.

While Google makes me uneasy when I really think about the control and power it holds in our lives, it’s unlikely I’ll stop using it. Why? Because I am used to it, and I, along with many other human beings, am a creature of habit. Until Google seriously takes advantage of me to the point I can recognize it, I will continue to be blissfully Googlized. How about you? 

Media Convergence: Right at Your Fingertips

You may be wondering, “What is media convergence?” I can assure you that you most likely know what it is, just didn’t know the name of it. Basically media convergence is the combination of multiple forms of media. This includes using a computer to watch television, reading the New York Times online instead of in print, or, what the majority of us do every day, using your smartphone to do . . . well pretty much anything.

This idea of being able to access different forms of media in a variety of ways is almost expected in today’s world. It just seems natural that I should be able to watch Netflix on my T.V., on my laptop, or on my phone. We are starting to rely on this capability. We contribute to and use the internet on a day to day bases. Just think how frustrating it can be when we can’t find Wi-Fi. Being online has become a part of our everyday lives.

It is no secret that we tend to have our phones on hand almost always. This makes it insanely easy to stay connected, and gives us incredible power to use and contribute information to the internet. We ourselves are converging machines that never stop and never tire out, largely due to our smartphones.

This remarkable power enables us to connect faster than ever before. We can share and spread ideas in a way not possible 20 years ago. Together we are building an intriguing and complex community that will continue to contribute a wider understanding and endless possibilities in virtually every area of life.

All of this you and your phone are a part of. Every time you comment on a magazine’s website, or post a picture on Instagram, share a video off YouTube, or enter a search in Google, you are participating in media convergence. My advice? Don’t stop the movement; let’s find out what this can bloom into.

For more one media convergence, check out this video. 

A Blogger to Admire

A few years back Rebecca Blood, creator of rebecca’s pocket, did a project in which she interviewed notable bloggers. One interviewee in particular made an impact on me in what she blogged about and how she went about blogging; her name is Tiffany B. Brown.

There are three reasons why this intelligent woman stood out to me in her blogging style, all of which I consider important characteristics of a successful blogger.

Reason 1: Her blog consists of what all good blogs should.

Brown certainly puts considerable time and effort into her blogging, something that is crucial as a blogger. She has a direct focus that she keeps consistent, and updates her sites frequently. Doing so has created a community of followers who have the ability to comment and contribute themselves. Her blog also exhibits good design and many links. Not to mention she doesn’t rely on just the internet to support and produce new ideas; she continues to read offline and generate fresh thoughts.

Reason 2: This is a BIG part of her life. 

There is no question about whether or not Brown is passionate about blogging; it is her fondest and main hobby. You can see her commitment based on her site she has created and keeps updated: tiffanybbrown.com. She did have two other sites, but since the interview has stopped updating them. That being said, she still devotes hours upon hours to her hobby and it has positively influenced her life both inside and outside her professional life.

Reason 3: She makes it her own and listens to herself.

Brown blogs about issues and matters she considers valid and important. She exhibits her identity and beliefs, and while this always has the possibility of causing friction, it also has the possibility of being a role model. Without these characteristics, what is the point in even blogging?

Something I found particularly interesting is that she acknowledges that she burns out, roughly every six months. She doesn’t try to fight this. When it happens she allows herself the time she needs to be able to once again contribute quality information.
 

It is important to keep in mind this interview was done several years ago, so some of the facts in the initial post may not be relevant today. However, the characteristics Brown held as I read the interview prove to still be valid when aspiring to be a successful blogger.

Get Ready!

This is my first post on my new blog for my IMS class!

I am a student at North Central College, and we are to keep this blog updated throughout our term this year.

I will be using this blog to share my thoughts about anything and everything that has to do with the new age of media. I'll be including links to other articles and videos for your entertainment.

I hope you enjoy!