27 Sep 07

Having titled this article I need to issue a Mia Copa so I might as well get it out right up front. The truth is, this editorial probably applies not only to the fields of website design and remote and outsourced ' IT ' ?services and computer sales and repair, but to most writers and technical subjects covered on the web.

My background in the educational, legal, intelligence and law enforcement communities qualifies me more than most "computer gurus" for research to bring my audience not only beneficial data but quality links allowing access to and use of the information and sources shared.

The First Issue: Restricted Embedded Links...

The problem arises in trying to get the results of that research, knowledge and experience into the hands of those searching for answers.

Most hosts restrict submissions to one or two embedded links if they allow any at all. That is a real issue when the author is actually concerned about providing quality referenced content.

These articles on the super slab run the gamut from the frivolous to the technical. I suspect most computer and internet related articles are of the technical variety at least to some extent, and I understand there are those who game the system and abuse their privilege.

So, restrict the number of links back to the author and his or her web sites, not to legitimate referenced sources. That will make more work for the hosts who read all these articles before they are published, but most of them get paid well for editing what you see and read on their sites

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The Second Issue: Article Lengths...

Each hosts has his or her minimum length requirements normally in the 600 word range. Such a minimum often causes one of necessity to be much too verbose instead of succinct as we have always been taught.

Professors say keep cutting the article down. Don't use five words when one will suffice. On the article hosting sites, the rule seems to be don't use one word when you can write a paragraph.

For example, an article on the subject should explain what can be done to speed up Windows Vista (EXPENSIVE!) Computers, how to properly tune up Windows XP (EXPENSIVE!) Computers, and why Linux Ubuntu (FREE...DOWNLOADABLE) runs better, faster, and with less virus and crash problems on most computers than any Microsoft Windows operating system and then shut up.

Note: "Ubuntu's biggest problem may be a shortage of compatible wireless drivers".

Why have a two year old babbling on forever just to meet some arbitrary word count? I don't care what moo moo makers say, One size does not fit all! So, if it is an article on the history of computers or computer techs and sciences there needs to be considerably more than 600 words especially with limited embedded reference links. On the other hand if it is a simple complete steps 1, 2, 3 to fix a specific issue it may need to be considerably less.

The Third Issue: Emphasis...

Writing on computer and internet based subjects does not easily lend itself to the old standard of who, what, when, where and why.

No font setting!!!! When writing about these computer and internet related issues it is often almost obligatory to stress and emphasize. That can be done with much less verbiage with just a little tweaking of typesetting and a well placed link.

Many of these hosts are owned and operated by men. They should understand we (especially we men) need the salient points to stand out from the rest of the document. We want to know where the graphics card is located not necessarily how it functions. If we fail the first time (ok maybe the tenth), we will go back and read the directions.

Finally...

This article got a lot off my chest and over 700 words too so if it don't show up on your favorite server or host it will be for some other reason...probably just as subjective.

In the final analysis one needs to not only publish articles but a Blog and maybe even a Twitter as well to cover all the bases especially where there are these restrictions.

Surfers need to search and read both article hosts and the blogosphere to find the data they seek especially if they want to make sure the author is not blowing smoke or if they need their data well referenced and linked.

I would especially recommend such documentation in Computer Related Articles involving subjects like a remote and outsourced "IT" ?service, helpdesk, and repair facility such as that provided by The Tennessee Mountain Man at http://www.remotehelpdesk1.com.

tmm