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Notice (8): Undefined variable: most_viewed_stories [APP/views/stories/probus-display.ctp, line 49]Code | Context<?php
echo View::element('probus-stories-list', array('stories'=>$most_viewed_stories, 'mode'=>'most-popular','limit'=>4));
$___viewFn = "/home/probus/domains/stagingblueplains/app-public/views/stories/probus-display.ctp" $___dataForView = array( "nextstoryurl" => "/fed24b4f", "publication" => array( "Story" => array(), "Publication" => array(), "Tag" => array(), "Tags" => array() ), "story_tagline" => "", "story" => array( "Story" => array(), "Publication" => array(), "Tag" => array(), "Tags" => array() ), "related_stories" => array( array(), array(), array(), array(), array() ) ) $loadHelpers = true $cached = false $cache = CacheHelper CacheHelper::$__replace = array CacheHelper::$__match = array CacheHelper::$cacheAction = NULL CacheHelper::$helpers = NULL CacheHelper::$base = "" CacheHelper::$webroot = "/" CacheHelper::$theme = NULL CacheHelper::$here = "/d3186804/Jump_on_the_blogging_bandwagon" CacheHelper::$params = array CacheHelper::$action = "display" CacheHelper::$plugin = NULL CacheHelper::$data = NULL CacheHelper::$namedArgs = NULL CacheHelper::$argSeparator = NULL CacheHelper::$validationErrors = NULL CacheHelper::$tags = array CacheHelper::$__tainted = NULL CacheHelper::$__cleaned = NULL $authentication = AuthenticationHelper AuthenticationHelper::$sessionKey = NULL AuthenticationHelper::$helpers = array AuthenticationHelper::$view = View object AuthenticationHelper::$base = "" AuthenticationHelper::$webroot = "/" AuthenticationHelper::$theme = NULL AuthenticationHelper::$here = "/d3186804/Jump_on_the_blogging_bandwagon" AuthenticationHelper::$params = array AuthenticationHelper::$action = "display" AuthenticationHelper::$plugin = NULL AuthenticationHelper::$data = NULL AuthenticationHelper::$namedArgs = NULL AuthenticationHelper::$argSeparator = NULL AuthenticationHelper::$validationErrors = NULL AuthenticationHelper::$tags = array AuthenticationHelper::$__tainted = NULL AuthenticationHelper::$__cleaned = NULL AuthenticationHelper::$Session = SessionHelper object $javascript = JavascriptHelper JavascriptHelper::$useNative = true JavascriptHelper::$enabled = true JavascriptHelper::$safe = false JavascriptHelper::$tags = array JavascriptHelper::$_blockOptions = array JavascriptHelper::$_cachedEvents = array JavascriptHelper::$_cacheEvents = false JavascriptHelper::$_cacheToFile = false JavascriptHelper::$_cacheAll = false JavascriptHelper::$_rules = array JavascriptHelper::$__scriptBuffer = NULL JavascriptHelper::$helpers = NULL JavascriptHelper::$base = "" JavascriptHelper::$webroot = "/" JavascriptHelper::$theme = NULL JavascriptHelper::$here = "/d3186804/Jump_on_the_blogging_bandwagon" JavascriptHelper::$params = array JavascriptHelper::$action = "display" JavascriptHelper::$plugin = NULL JavascriptHelper::$data = NULL JavascriptHelper::$namedArgs = NULL JavascriptHelper::$argSeparator = NULL JavascriptHelper::$validationErrors = NULL JavascriptHelper::$__tainted = NULL JavascriptHelper::$__cleaned = NULL $eHtml = eHtmlHelper eHtmlHelper::$helpers = array eHtmlHelper::$viewVars = array eHtmlHelper::$tags = array eHtmlHelper::$_crumbs = array eHtmlHelper::$__includedScripts = array eHtmlHelper::$_scriptBlockOptions = array eHtmlHelper::$__docTypes = array eHtmlHelper::$base = "" eHtmlHelper::$webroot = "/" eHtmlHelper::$theme = NULL eHtmlHelper::$here = "/d3186804/Jump_on_the_blogging_bandwagon" eHtmlHelper::$params = array eHtmlHelper::$action = "display" eHtmlHelper::$plugin = NULL eHtmlHelper::$data = NULL eHtmlHelper::$namedArgs = NULL eHtmlHelper::$argSeparator = NULL eHtmlHelper::$validationErrors = NULL eHtmlHelper::$__tainted = NULL eHtmlHelper::$__cleaned = NULL eHtmlHelper::$eForm = eFormHelper object eHtmlHelper::$javascript = JavascriptHelper object eHtmlHelper::$Authentication = AuthenticationHelper object $eJavascript = eJavascriptHelper eJavascriptHelper::$helpers = array eJavascriptHelper::$useNative = true eJavascriptHelper::$enabled = true eJavascriptHelper::$safe = false eJavascriptHelper::$tags = array eJavascriptHelper::$_blockOptions = array eJavascriptHelper::$_cachedEvents = array eJavascriptHelper::$_cacheEvents = false eJavascriptHelper::$_cacheToFile = false eJavascriptHelper::$_cacheAll = false eJavascriptHelper::$_rules = array eJavascriptHelper::$__scriptBuffer = NULL eJavascriptHelper::$base = "" eJavascriptHelper::$webroot = "/" eJavascriptHelper::$theme = NULL eJavascriptHelper::$here = "/d3186804/Jump_on_the_blogging_bandwagon" eJavascriptHelper::$params = array eJavascriptHelper::$action = "display" eJavascriptHelper::$plugin = NULL eJavascriptHelper::$data = NULL eJavascriptHelper::$namedArgs = NULL eJavascriptHelper::$argSeparator = NULL eJavascriptHelper::$validationErrors = NULL eJavascriptHelper::$__tainted = NULL eJavascriptHelper::$__cleaned = NULL eJavascriptHelper::$eHtml = eHtmlHelper object $eForm = eFormHelper eFormHelper::$helpers = array eFormHelper::$fieldset = array eFormHelper::$__options = array eFormHelper::$fields = array eFormHelper::$requestType = NULL eFormHelper::$defaultModel = NULL eFormHelper::$_inputDefaults = array eFormHelper::$base = "" eFormHelper::$webroot = "/" eFormHelper::$theme = NULL eFormHelper::$here = "/d3186804/Jump_on_the_blogging_bandwagon" eFormHelper::$params = array eFormHelper::$action = "display" eFormHelper::$plugin = NULL eFormHelper::$data = NULL eFormHelper::$namedArgs = NULL eFormHelper::$argSeparator = NULL eFormHelper::$validationErrors = NULL eFormHelper::$tags = array eFormHelper::$__tainted = NULL eFormHelper::$__cleaned = NULL eFormHelper::$Html = HtmlHelper object $tagCloud = TagCloudHelper TagCloudHelper::$helpers = array TagCloudHelper::$base = "" TagCloudHelper::$webroot = "/" TagCloudHelper::$theme = NULL TagCloudHelper::$here = "/d3186804/Jump_on_the_blogging_bandwagon" TagCloudHelper::$params = array TagCloudHelper::$action = "display" TagCloudHelper::$plugin = NULL TagCloudHelper::$data = NULL TagCloudHelper::$namedArgs = NULL TagCloudHelper::$argSeparator = NULL TagCloudHelper::$validationErrors = NULL TagCloudHelper::$tags = array TagCloudHelper::$__tainted = NULL TagCloudHelper::$__cleaned = NULL TagCloudHelper::$Html = HtmlHelper object $html = HtmlHelper HtmlHelper::$tags = array HtmlHelper::$_crumbs = array HtmlHelper::$__includedScripts = array HtmlHelper::$_scriptBlockOptions = array HtmlHelper::$__docTypes = array HtmlHelper::$helpers = NULL HtmlHelper::$base = "" HtmlHelper::$webroot = "/" HtmlHelper::$theme = NULL HtmlHelper::$here = "/d3186804/Jump_on_the_blogging_bandwagon" HtmlHelper::$params = array HtmlHelper::$action = "display" HtmlHelper::$plugin = NULL HtmlHelper::$data = NULL HtmlHelper::$namedArgs = NULL HtmlHelper::$argSeparator = NULL HtmlHelper::$validationErrors = NULL HtmlHelper::$__tainted = NULL HtmlHelper::$__cleaned = NULL $form = FormHelper FormHelper::$helpers = array FormHelper::$fieldset = array FormHelper::$__options = array FormHelper::$fields = array FormHelper::$requestType = NULL FormHelper::$defaultModel = NULL FormHelper::$_inputDefaults = array FormHelper::$base = "" FormHelper::$webroot = "/" FormHelper::$theme = NULL FormHelper::$here = "/d3186804/Jump_on_the_blogging_bandwagon" FormHelper::$params = array FormHelper::$action = "display" FormHelper::$plugin = NULL FormHelper::$data = NULL FormHelper::$namedArgs = NULL FormHelper::$argSeparator = NULL FormHelper::$validationErrors = NULL FormHelper::$tags = array FormHelper::$__tainted = NULL FormHelper::$__cleaned = NULL FormHelper::$Html = HtmlHelper object $session = SessionHelper SessionHelper::$helpers = array SessionHelper::$__active = true SessionHelper::$valid = false SessionHelper::$error = false SessionHelper::$_userAgent = "8611eabdb1aa7cc20f419da71363daa3" SessionHelper::$path = "/" SessionHelper::$lastError = NULL SessionHelper::$security = "medium" SessionHelper::$time = 1749844534 SessionHelper::$sessionTime = 1749856534 SessionHelper::$cookieLifeTime = false SessionHelper::$watchKeys = array SessionHelper::$id = NULL SessionHelper::$host = NULL SessionHelper::$timeout = NULL SessionHelper::$base = "" SessionHelper::$webroot = "/" SessionHelper::$here = "/d3186804/Jump_on_the_blogging_bandwagon" SessionHelper::$params = array SessionHelper::$action = "display" SessionHelper::$data = NULL SessionHelper::$theme = NULL SessionHelper::$plugin = NULL $nextstoryurl = "/fed24b4f" $publication = array( "Story" => array( "id" => "734", "publication_id" => "2", "tag_id" => "60", "headline" => "Jump on the blogging bandwagon", "headline_home" => "Blog on!", "headline_index" => "Jump on the blogging bandwagon", "meta_keywords" => "blog, writing, blogging ", "home_spotlight" => "/probus/files/Content/Blogging_Carousel.jpg", "home_spotlight_mini" => "/probus/files/Content/Blogging_285x200.jpg", "home_feature" => "", "home_tag" => "/probus/files/Content/Blogging_150x112.jpg", "index_mini" => "", "index_result" => "/probus/files/Content/Blogging_150x112.jpg", "gallery" => null, "gallery_captions" => null, "gallery_hide" => "0", "embed_spotlight" => "0", "status" => "0", "published" => "2012-12-04 00:00:00", "byline" => "Drew Patchell ", "tagline" => null, "intro_short" => "<p>Want to see your name up in lights? Why not start a blog?</p>", "intro_long" => "<p>Want to start sharing your opinions and information with the world? Or simply want to comment on other people's opinions? It's time to log on and get blogging. </p>", "body" => "<p><img style="float: left; padding-right: 15px;" src="http://www.probussouthpacific.org/probus/files/Content/Blogging_embed.jpg" alt="" width="200" height="180" />Want to start sharing your opinions and information with the world? Or simply want to comment on other people’s opinion? Get blogging quick smart.</p> <h2>What is a blog?</h2> <p>A blog is an ongoing conversation conducted on the internet. Essentially, it is a website published by an individual or business for the purpose of sharing information and creating discussions. Unlike traditional websites, blogs are usually free, quick and easy to set up with a number of different layouts available. The information on a blog is generally arranged in chronological order from the most recent post at the top of the main page, to the oldest entries at the bottom. Blogs can be set up under an individual website address or the software creator’s website using a sub-domain address. Most importantly, software developers have ensured that their software requires little technical knowledge.</p> <h2>Trending topics</h2> <p>Blogs are normally created around a certain topic or theme, but in recent years there has been a trend towards individuals creating blogs to provide information on multiple topics. This is not surprising when you consider that statistics show that the number of blogs worldwide has grown from 35.8 million in October 2006 to 173 million in October 2011. </p> <p>Up until a few years ago, information posted on a blog was seen to have less credibility than information posted on a website. While this may be true for some sectors of information, many web users now prefer to gain information from an independent source, which often comes in the form of a blog. Due to the changing nature of trust on the internet, companies are beginning to create their own blogs separate from their own websites, to interact with new users and to put some personality into their company image.</p> <h2>Why follow a blog?</h2> <p>No matter what the topic you want to talk about online, there will always be someone else with the same passion and drive who is already blogging on the topic. Blogs not only allow the author to have their say, but include a comments area for you to express your own point of view. While there are a large number of blogs dedicated to important subjects on the internet, there is also a lighter side to blogging with many fun and frivolous posts focusing on funny photos, future inventions, jokes and cute photos of cats.</p> <h2>Start your own blog</h2> <p>Starting your own blog is simple. But first you need to work out the balance between what you want to say and what people will want to read. Once you have decided on your subject, you need to select a blogging software provider. The two largest and easiest to use are Wordpress and Blogger. Due to the usability and networking structure of Wordpress, it is generally recommended over Blogger for first-time users. </p> <p>It’s free, and you can have a working blog in just seven simple steps</p> <ol> <li>Visit the Wordpress homepage: www.wordpress.com</li> <li>Click on the ‘Get started here’ button.</li> <li>Enter your new account information and select a URL for your blog.</li> <li>You will be sent an email to activate your account – follow the instructions in the email.</li> <li>Choose a design, also known as a theme, that suits your blog.</li> <li>Tweak and customise your settings through the ‘Dashboard’ to get it looking the way you want.</li> <li>Start typing!</li> </ol> <p>Write your blog with passion on a regular basis and you should soon be rewarded with a steadily increasing following. Try it, it’s addictive.</p> <p>Do you have a blog? Why not share it with others on our <a href="http://www.facebook.com/probussouthpacific" target="_blank">Facebook</a> page? Remember to 'like' us first! </p>", "newsletter_name" => null, "printed" => null, "created" => "2012-12-04 17:12:28", "modified" => "2012-12-04 17:12:28", "url" => "d3186804", "short_id" => "d3186804", "url_part_2" => "Jump_on_the_blogging_bandwagon", "total_views" => "677", "intro" => "<p><img style="float: left; padding-right: 15px;" src="http://www.probussouthpacific.org/probus/files/Content/Blogging_embed.jpg" alt="" width="200" height="180" />Want to start sharing your opinions and information with the world? Or simply want to comment on other people’s opinion? Get blogging quick smart.</p>", "publish_sort_date" => "2012-12-04", "_status" => "Offline" ), "Publication" => array( "id" => "2", "name" => "Probus Web", "folder" => "probus", "url" => "staging.probussouthpacific.org", "microsite_cms_url" => "stagingmicrosite.probussouthpacific.org", "meta_keywords" => "", "meta_description" => "", "tag_type_id" => "3", "home_spotlight_count" => "5", "home_spotlight_delay" => "5", "home_feature_count" => "0", "index_spotlight_count" => "3", "search_spotlight_count" => "3", "most_viewed_duration" => "14", "most_tagged_duration" => "14", "list_page_size" => "25", "home_ad1" => "88", "home_ad2" => "89", "home_ad3" => "", "home_ad4" => "", "story_ad1" => "", "story_ad2" => "", "story_ad3" => "", "story_ad4" => "", "button_ad1" => "66", "button_ad2" => "67", "button_ad3" => "", "button_ad4" => "", "button_ad5" => "", "leader_ad" => "", "smtp_port" => "465", "smtp_host" => "smtp.gmail.com", "smtp_username" => "[email protected]", "smtp_password" => "Qwert123$#", "smtp_type" => "ssl", "secure_widget" => "<h3>Quick Links</h3> <p> </p> <p>See <a title="PSPL Mail Outs" href="http://www.probussouthpacific.org/pages/pspl_correspondence">PSPL Mail Outs</a> for copies of letters sent by PSPL for the information of all Probus Club members. </p> <p> </p> <p>Club Management Committees can obtain contact details of Probus clubs by visiting this page. <a href="http://www.probussouthpacific.org/pages/club_directory_lookup">Directory of Probus Clubs</a></p> <p> </p> <p>Access a range of material which can assist you with membership development for your club. <a href="http://www.probussouthpacific.org/pages/club_administration_membership_development">Membership Development Tools</a></p> <p> </p> <p>See PSPL’s latest annual report <a title="Click here." href="http://www.probussouthpacific.org/pages/about_pspl_annual_report">Click here.</a></p> <p> </p> <p>To access exclusive offers, visit the Probus <a href="http://www.probussouthpacific.org/pages/club_administration_member_benefits_scheme">Member Benefits Scheme</a> page.</p> <p> </p> <p><span>If you want copies of reports, accounts templates or nomination forms for office bearers, you’ll find them here. </span><a href="http://www.probussouthpacific.org/pages/club_administration_forms">Forms and Templates</a></p> <p> </p> <p><span>You'll find all your merchandise needs by visiting the </span><a href="http://www.probussouthpacific.org/products/display/">Online Shop</a></p>", "created" => "2012-10-05 22:15:24", "modified" => "2012-10-06 15:18:14" ), "Tag" => array( "id" => "60", "tag_type_id" => "3", "publication_id" => "2", "name" => "Technology", "meta_keywords" => "", "meta_description" => "", "tag_head_image" => "/probus/files/TechnologyEditBlue.jpg", "tag_ad1" => "98", "tag_ad2" => "99", "parent_id" => null, "private" => "0", "priority" => null, "created" => "2012-10-05 22:15:24", "modified" => "2012-11-21 16:23:35" ), "Tags" => array( array() ) ) $story_tagline = "" $story = array( "Story" => array( "id" => "734", "publication_id" => "2", "tag_id" => "60", "headline" => "Jump on the blogging bandwagon", "headline_home" => "Blog on!", "headline_index" => "Jump on the blogging bandwagon", "meta_keywords" => "blog, writing, blogging ", "home_spotlight" => "/probus/files/Content/Blogging_Carousel.jpg", "home_spotlight_mini" => "/probus/files/Content/Blogging_285x200.jpg", "home_feature" => "", "home_tag" => "/probus/files/Content/Blogging_150x112.jpg", "index_mini" => "", "index_result" => "/probus/files/Content/Blogging_150x112.jpg", "gallery" => null, "gallery_captions" => null, "gallery_hide" => "0", "embed_spotlight" => "0", "status" => "0", "published" => "2012-12-04 00:00:00", "byline" => "Drew Patchell ", "tagline" => null, "intro_short" => "<p>Want to see your name up in lights? Why not start a blog?</p>", "intro_long" => "<p>Want to start sharing your opinions and information with the world? Or simply want to comment on other people's opinions? It's time to log on and get blogging. </p>", "body" => "<p><img style="float: left; padding-right: 15px;" src="http://www.probussouthpacific.org/probus/files/Content/Blogging_embed.jpg" alt="" width="200" height="180" />Want to start sharing your opinions and information with the world? Or simply want to comment on other people’s opinion? Get blogging quick smart.</p> <h2>What is a blog?</h2> <p>A blog is an ongoing conversation conducted on the internet. Essentially, it is a website published by an individual or business for the purpose of sharing information and creating discussions. Unlike traditional websites, blogs are usually free, quick and easy to set up with a number of different layouts available. The information on a blog is generally arranged in chronological order from the most recent post at the top of the main page, to the oldest entries at the bottom. Blogs can be set up under an individual website address or the software creator’s website using a sub-domain address. Most importantly, software developers have ensured that their software requires little technical knowledge.</p> <h2>Trending topics</h2> <p>Blogs are normally created around a certain topic or theme, but in recent years there has been a trend towards individuals creating blogs to provide information on multiple topics. This is not surprising when you consider that statistics show that the number of blogs worldwide has grown from 35.8 million in October 2006 to 173 million in October 2011. </p> <p>Up until a few years ago, information posted on a blog was seen to have less credibility than information posted on a website. While this may be true for some sectors of information, many web users now prefer to gain information from an independent source, which often comes in the form of a blog. Due to the changing nature of trust on the internet, companies are beginning to create their own blogs separate from their own websites, to interact with new users and to put some personality into their company image.</p> <h2>Why follow a blog?</h2> <p>No matter what the topic you want to talk about online, there will always be someone else with the same passion and drive who is already blogging on the topic. Blogs not only allow the author to have their say, but include a comments area for you to express your own point of view. While there are a large number of blogs dedicated to important subjects on the internet, there is also a lighter side to blogging with many fun and frivolous posts focusing on funny photos, future inventions, jokes and cute photos of cats.</p> <h2>Start your own blog</h2> <p>Starting your own blog is simple. But first you need to work out the balance between what you want to say and what people will want to read. Once you have decided on your subject, you need to select a blogging software provider. The two largest and easiest to use are Wordpress and Blogger. Due to the usability and networking structure of Wordpress, it is generally recommended over Blogger for first-time users. </p> <p>It’s free, and you can have a working blog in just seven simple steps</p> <ol> <li>Visit the Wordpress homepage: www.wordpress.com</li> <li>Click on the ‘Get started here’ button.</li> <li>Enter your new account information and select a URL for your blog.</li> <li>You will be sent an email to activate your account – follow the instructions in the email.</li> <li>Choose a design, also known as a theme, that suits your blog.</li> <li>Tweak and customise your settings through the ‘Dashboard’ to get it looking the way you want.</li> <li>Start typing!</li> </ol> <p>Write your blog with passion on a regular basis and you should soon be rewarded with a steadily increasing following. Try it, it’s addictive.</p> <p>Do you have a blog? Why not share it with others on our <a href="http://www.facebook.com/probussouthpacific" target="_blank">Facebook</a> page? Remember to 'like' us first! </p>", "newsletter_name" => null, "printed" => null, "created" => "2012-12-04 17:12:28", "modified" => "2012-12-04 17:12:28", "url" => "d3186804", "short_id" => "d3186804", "url_part_2" => "Jump_on_the_blogging_bandwagon", "total_views" => "677", "intro" => "<p><img style="float: left; padding-right: 15px;" src="http://www.probussouthpacific.org/probus/files/Content/Blogging_embed.jpg" alt="" width="200" height="180" />Want to start sharing your opinions and information with the world? Or simply want to comment on other people’s opinion? Get blogging quick smart.</p>", "publish_sort_date" => "2012-12-04", "_status" => "Offline" ), "Publication" => array( "id" => "2", "name" => "Probus Web", "folder" => "probus", "url" => "staging.probussouthpacific.org", "microsite_cms_url" => "stagingmicrosite.probussouthpacific.org", "meta_keywords" => "", "meta_description" => "", "tag_type_id" => "3", "home_spotlight_count" => "5", "home_spotlight_delay" => "5", "home_feature_count" => "0", "index_spotlight_count" => "3", "search_spotlight_count" => "3", "most_viewed_duration" => "14", "most_tagged_duration" => "14", "list_page_size" => "25", "home_ad1" => "88", "home_ad2" => "89", "home_ad3" => "", "home_ad4" => "", "story_ad1" => "", "story_ad2" => "", "story_ad3" => "", "story_ad4" => "", "button_ad1" => "66", "button_ad2" => "67", "button_ad3" => "", "button_ad4" => "", "button_ad5" => "", "leader_ad" => "", "smtp_port" => "465", "smtp_host" => "smtp.gmail.com", "smtp_username" => "[email protected]", "smtp_password" => "Qwert123$#", "smtp_type" => "ssl", "secure_widget" => "<h3>Quick Links</h3> <p> </p> <p>See <a title="PSPL Mail Outs" href="http://www.probussouthpacific.org/pages/pspl_correspondence">PSPL Mail Outs</a> for copies of letters sent by PSPL for the information of all Probus Club members. </p> <p> </p> <p>Club Management Committees can obtain contact details of Probus clubs by visiting this page. <a href="http://www.probussouthpacific.org/pages/club_directory_lookup">Directory of Probus Clubs</a></p> <p> </p> <p>Access a range of material which can assist you with membership development for your club. <a href="http://www.probussouthpacific.org/pages/club_administration_membership_development">Membership Development Tools</a></p> <p> </p> <p>See PSPL’s latest annual report <a title="Click here." href="http://www.probussouthpacific.org/pages/about_pspl_annual_report">Click here.</a></p> <p> </p> <p>To access exclusive offers, visit the Probus <a href="http://www.probussouthpacific.org/pages/club_administration_member_benefits_scheme">Member Benefits Scheme</a> page.</p> <p> </p> <p><span>If you want copies of reports, accounts templates or nomination forms for office bearers, you’ll find them here. </span><a href="http://www.probussouthpacific.org/pages/club_administration_forms">Forms and Templates</a></p> <p> </p> <p><span>You'll find all your merchandise needs by visiting the </span><a href="http://www.probussouthpacific.org/products/display/">Online Shop</a></p>", "created" => "2012-10-05 22:15:24", "modified" => "2012-10-06 15:18:14" ), "Tag" => array( "id" => "60", "tag_type_id" => "3", "publication_id" => "2", "name" => "Technology", "meta_keywords" => "", "meta_description" => "", "tag_head_image" => "/probus/files/TechnologyEditBlue.jpg", "tag_ad1" => "98", "tag_ad2" => "99", "parent_id" => null, "private" => "0", "priority" => null, "created" => "2012-10-05 22:15:24", "modified" => "2012-11-21 16:23:35" ), "Tags" => array( array() ) ) $related_stories = array( array( "Story" => array() ), array( "Story" => array() ), array( "Story" => array() ), array( "Story" => array() ), array( "Story" => array() ) )include - APP/views/stories/probus-display.ctp, line 49 View::_render() - CORE/cake/libs/view/view.php, line 731 View::render() - CORE/cake/libs/view/view.php, line 426 Controller::render() - CORE/cake/libs/controller/controller.php, line 909 AppController::render() - APP/app_controller.php, line 64 Dispatcher::_invoke() - CORE/cake/dispatcher.php, line 207 Dispatcher::dispatch() - CORE/cake/dispatcher.php, line 171 [main] - APP/webroot/index.php, line 83
Jump on the blogging bandwagon
by Drew Patchell | 04 Dec 2012
Want to start sharing your opinions and information with the world? Or simply want to comment on other people’s opinion? Get blogging quick smart.
What is a blog?
A blog is an ongoing conversation conducted on the internet. Essentially, it is a website published by an individual or business for the purpose of sharing information and creating discussions. Unlike traditional websites, blogs are usually free, quick and easy to set up with a number of different layouts available. The information on a blog is generally arranged in chronological order from the most recent post at the top of the main page, to the oldest entries at the bottom. Blogs can be set up under an individual website address or the software creator’s website using a sub-domain address. Most importantly, software developers have ensured that their software requires little technical knowledge.
Trending topics
Blogs are normally created around a certain topic or theme, but in recent years there has been a trend towards individuals creating blogs to provide information on multiple topics. This is not surprising when you consider that statistics show that the number of blogs worldwide has grown from 35.8 million in October 2006 to 173 million in October 2011.
Up until a few years ago, information posted on a blog was seen to have less credibility than information posted on a website. While this may be true for some sectors of information, many web users now prefer to gain information from an independent source, which often comes in the form of a blog. Due to the changing nature of trust on the internet, companies are beginning to create their own blogs separate from their own websites, to interact with new users and to put some personality into their company image.
Why follow a blog?
No matter what the topic you want to talk about online, there will always be someone else with the same passion and drive who is already blogging on the topic. Blogs not only allow the author to have their say, but include a comments area for you to express your own point of view. While there are a large number of blogs dedicated to important subjects on the internet, there is also a lighter side to blogging with many fun and frivolous posts focusing on funny photos, future inventions, jokes and cute photos of cats.
Start your own blog
Starting your own blog is simple. But first you need to work out the balance between what you want to say and what people will want to read. Once you have decided on your subject, you need to select a blogging software provider. The two largest and easiest to use are Wordpress and Blogger. Due to the usability and networking structure of Wordpress, it is generally recommended over Blogger for first-time users.
It’s free, and you can have a working blog in just seven simple steps
- Visit the Wordpress homepage: www.wordpress.com
- Click on the ‘Get started here’ button.
- Enter your new account information and select a URL for your blog.
- You will be sent an email to activate your account – follow the instructions in the email.
- Choose a design, also known as a theme, that suits your blog.
- Tweak and customise your settings through the ‘Dashboard’ to get it looking the way you want.
- Start typing!
Write your blog with passion on a regular basis and you should soon be rewarded with a steadily increasing following. Try it, it’s addictive.
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