Podcast+Production

**Podcast Production**
Podcasting production involves a number of different processes. The method and ease in which a Podcast can be produced is dependant on the type of computer, being either a Mac or PC. A Mac computer provides more Podcasting programme options that are readily available on their system. However the majority of PC computers will either need Podcasting programmes to be purchased or downloaded, sometimes for free. In other words Mac are generally more Podcast production friendly.

**Click on the downloadable PDF file with specific instructions that could be used in producing a Podcast ** **1. Planning**  Initially a Podcast should be planned and organised before any recording or uploading occurs however this piece of writing will deliver more general information about the technical aspects of Podcast production.

**2. Recording**
A Podcast starts with the recording of content using a computer. This should be done as raw footage and would not be the final Podcast that is uploaded to the Internet. The content is recorded using a digital voice recorder available through programmes like Audacity or Quicktime. Some Podcasts also use the digital voice recorders to record telephone-like conversations or conference calls that are conducted using programmes like Skype or iChat.

**3. Editing and Production**
This content is then edited to create an improved final production with the possible addition of music, jingles, and sound effects. There is also the possibility of creating a professional look to a Podcast by creating chapters, adding chapter markers, titles, add artwork, URLs, and URL titles.  It is then converted into a MP3 format that will then be uploaded onto the Internet. This is a very important stage, as the recording must be changed into a file that can then be uploaded onto the Internet, easily downloaded and added onto a portable MP3 player.

**4. RSS and XML Feeds**
A Podcaster must host their own media files, RSS and XML feeds on their own web servers, or by contracting with a 3rd party for hosting provider. This means that they need their own URL address. If they do not already have a URL address they will need to find a host provider. A common method used in obtaining a URL address is creating a blog however this is only one of many methods.

**5. Podcatcher**
Once a Podcast has been uploaded onto the Internet it is then available for download onto a computer as a Webcast, remember the computer must be connected to the Internet otherwise downloading maybe incomplete. In order for it to be downloaded onto a portable MP3 player or subscribed to, a Podcatcher programme like iTunes must be used. It is important to remember that iTunes is the most well-known Podcatcher but there a many more available.

A Podcatcher allows for the Podcast to be downloaded onto and added onto a portable MP3 player. Podcatchers are a type of media aggregator software that provide users with the ability to download, subscribe and receive updates of Podcasts to their computer. They are also function as an instrument in adding Podcasts to a portable MP3 player.