RSS feeds usually contain a headline and a summary of the content. The summary of the content contains enough information get the attention and interest of the reader without overwhelming them. By clicking on a link in the feed a reader can quickly visit the website for more information and all the details.

Multiple feeds are combined into an RSS reader. This makes it easy and convenient for individuals to quickly browse the information from many sources. Usually feeds follow a theme, so readers can subscribe to the feed that interest them.

Individuals can opt-in to specific feeds of interest, this is one of the biggest benefits of RSS. This gives total control of what information is received to the user. At any time, the user could remove a feed from the reader if they are no longer interested in receiving it. There is no subscribing or un-subscribing to deal with, when the feed is removed no further information is received from that feed. An RSS reader compiles the information from many providers into one spot. this allows the user to quickly view many content streams without having to go to multiple locations or emails.

RSS is a great tool for publishers as well. It frees the publisher from maintaining lists, worrying about privacy rules, spam or age guidelines. At the same time it provides the publisher a vehicle for communication to a highly targeted audience.

Publishers can use RSS to deliver keyword rich, themed content. This will help establish trust and build the publishers reputation with new and established customers.

Here is a sample of what can be delivered with RSS:

Blogs, most blogs have a RSS feed. Each blog post is summarized and broadcast as a feed item. This makes it easier for interested readers to scan blog posts for specific items of interest.

Articles, many articles are placed into RSS feeds and sent to readers informing them of new content. Generally, the feed consists of the article title and a brief summary or introduction of the article. RSS users can then decide to follow the link to the complete article.

Forum Feed, users can get updated posts through a RSS feed with some forums. The feed will usually show the latest topic of discussion. If users are interested in posting replies, or reading more, they can simply click to go directly to the forum discussion. When the discussion continues the RSS feed brings the latest updates to the reader.

Club Calendars, many schools, groups and clubs use RSS to publish upcoming events. The feed used to publicize these events also notify the community.

Retail Sale or Special Feed. Both online and traditional stores have started using RSS feeds to deliver news of special offers and sales to customers. Some online marketers have stepped this up by allowing users to customize a feed with keywords or phrases that they choose.

The usefulness of RSS is growing daily, so many industries have started to adapt RSS to get their message out. RSS is now being used to market, promote and communicate to a variety of audiences. The ease of use and user friendly make up of RSS has helped many organizations to expand their reach to new audiences and customers. With RSS quickly becoming the communication medium of choice for many businesses, and its growing popularity, will come more creative uses of RSS.