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RSS Feeds

This can be a confusing topic and difficult for a layperson to launch.  Go to this website: RSS Specifications.com for information on the purpose of RSS and how to get this tool for your website.

What is an RSS feed?

 “RSS” is “Really Simple Syndication” and is a channel by which your website receives feeds of frequently updated content like blogs, news articles, etc.  For an example, go to the News page on the Affiliate Partnership Center (this website).  If you scroll to the bottom, you’ll notice several articles with sources like The New York Times, GreenHour, National Wildlife Magazine and more.  These are all articles that appear via RSS feeds.

How does it work?

You must have a RSS feed reader or “aggregator”.  This can be in the form of software or a web application – often it is included in website software, such as packages from Orchid Suites.  Note: the Affiliate Partnership Center has RSS feeds on the News page as well as an RSS link that could feed content to other websites.

You may have noticed that websites sometimes have a small orange box with the letters “RSS” inside.  If you click on this button, a new webpage will open up and often the content looks distorted – like lines of code.  But if you look at the address bar in your browser where the URL is, you’ll see the RSS link that you can copy and then paste into your RSS reader.  Your website will now receive a feed of the media content from that site and the best thing is it updates itself!  You’ll have fresh, new articles without lifting a finger.

How do I get a RSS reader?

If your website does not already have an RSS reader application, there are a wide variety of options for sale or free download on the web.  All of them may be a little different and come from a different source, so it’s up to you which one you choose.  Try an internet search for reviews or recommendations or find sources online that sell or distribute RSS readers.

Where can I find good RSS feeds that match our interests?

Try searching websites you already frequent and see if they have an RSS feed you haven’t noticed before.  Below are some examples of RSS feeds that we already use on this site or other suggestions that might match your organization’s interest.