Chapter 10 Podcasting and Rss EssEntials 199 How to Explain Podcasting to Your clients We often find that many have misperceptions about podcasting, so let's establish an easy to reference analogy that can be used with clients. We equate a podcast to a media tool that behaves like TiVo or a magazine. Both of these media forms allow people to choose topics that they are interested in, both offer subscription models, and both allow time shifting and space shifting. With podcasts and TiVo, people can watch or listen at their convenience--not just when a program is broadcast. Both podcasts and TiVo let viewers browse and search; viewers can pick what they're interested in and then watch it when it's convenient. Many people browse and try things without ever subscribing. For example, you might find yourself at an airport with a little time to fill. You might walk up to a magazine stand and if a cover catches your interest you might buy it. After reading the magazine, you will likely make a decision about its value. You'll choose not to read it again, to try it out when you think of it, or to subscribe. The idea with podcasting is similar to a magazine--a show's long-term success is dependent on getting viewers to subscribe. an overview of Rss RSS technology was designed with convenience as the primary