Some Bloggercon reflections - the podcasting and journalism sessions

Overall, it was a sensational event. The 'unconference' format works. The use of discussion leaders rather than presenters or panelist really enables a lot more people to get involved. Of course, this is an educated, enthusiastic audience bursting to make a point or three.

The podcasting session brought together most of the major league pioneers of this two-month old phenomenon. Although, I must say that I think there's a long way to go with this idea. My own experience of it points to two problems. The delivery process is unreliable from most podcasters and the content varies from great (in parts) to utterly unlistenable. Many people don't realise, I think, that there is an awful lot more to radio broadcasting than just getting a microphone and burbling on.

Curry and others tried to argue that we don't have to be locked into the idea of doing 'shows' but I don't buy it. I want something that is coherent and consistent in style, format and content quality, otherwise I'm going to have to keep wading through junk to find something I want to listen to.

Next I went to the journalism session. There wasn't a lot new here. Lots of discussion about what is journalism and is bloggy really journalism and so on. I find these questions a bit beside the point and tired. It was good to see representatives from PBS, BBC and AP (who also were a sponsor) at the conference. I think strong links between blogging and MSM (mainstream media) is the logical and essential way forward. I think the blogging versus MSM conflict is no good for anyone. Someone pointed out that blogging's triumphs so far (those that are well-known at least) tend to be negative like the Trent Lott resignation and the Dan Rather 'kerning' episode. The big league is in generating new content not just criticising existing 'content generators' (previously known as writers). To this end, there was a lot of comments on the importance of bloggers as local journalists or specialist reporters rather than competing with the NY Times, I mean whoever is going to have the resources to operate in that league in a substantive way.

More to follow ....