RSS (really simple syndication) is a feed format used to publish frequently updated content such as blog posts, news, and podcasts using a standardized format. Readers can subscribe to the feed, and have their RSS reader or aggregator automatically collect updates. If you have subscribed to a podcast in iTunes you're using a RSS feed to gather and organize that content with iTunes acting as the aggregator.

eMail marketing typically employs an eNewsletter tool to distribute content to a subscriber list. Readers subscribe or sign-up to receive newsletter bulletins via a webform, submitting their email address. The main difference between RSS and email newsletters is that the content publisher must publish the newsletter and distribute via email, whereas RSS automatically updates subscribers readers when new content is published.

So, which is the better medium? If you have a technically savvy subscriber base then RSS is probably a more suitable distribution method. If you're audience is the general public then email/eNewsletters are a very effective method of getting your content into the hands of your opt-in subscribers. However, you may wish to consider a combination approach that enables your audience to choose the most appropriate method.

Smallbox CMS enables both distribution methods, which gives you maximum flexibility in getting your message in front of your audience. Read more about RSS feeds and enewsletters on our CMS products pages.

There are a host of RSS readers to choose from, including your mail programs (desktop) or customized homepages from Google and Yahoo. For more information on RSS and eNewsletters contact .