Blogging software abounds. So how does a new blogger choose software? There is no one answer, no one path to the perfect software. Like many things in life, choosing blogging software, often involves some trial and error. This is particularly true for the new blogger. Here is one way to start the process.
Blogging Intent
There are many reasons to start a blog. For instance, you may be involved in an organization or hobby and want to get the word out to other enthusiasts about current trends and upcoming events; or you want to create a hub for family events and memories. Perhaps, you have a product you want to promote a or would like to make your living blogging. There are nearly as many reasons to blog as there are bloggers. It’s important to know your blogging intent before your begin choosing software. Intent will drive your content and help you sift through software features, such audio, video, subscriptions, and widgets.
Blog Hosting
Who will host your blog? There are basically two ways to go:
- Buy your domain name and pay for hosting. The advantage of owning your domain is that it will be easier for search engines to find, you have total control over design and maintenance, and you have the ability to move the domain. The disadvantages are the costs involved and the design and maintenance may be more than you want to deal with.
- Choose a blog hosting site such as Blogger. The advantage of blog hosting sites are that the software and customer support are part of the process and the blog name and blog hosting are free. The disadvantages are the inability to move the blog to another host and less control over the blog design and features.
Successful blogs depend on content and readers, not on the software chosen or the type of blog hosting. In the end, you want to choose the software that is easiest for you to use.