Web 2.0 Services Make Podcasting Easier

While I was researching what kind of hardware I’d need to buy and the software I would need for podcasting, Web 2.0 removed another hurdle.

The most fascinating kinds of hardware I’ve studied are the different types of microphones and headsets used for podcasting.  The technology itself is interesting but the potential expense really complicates the decision-making process.

Conference call software from iotum makes it possible to produce a podcast of reasonable quality before making the investment in microphones and headsets.  It also eliminates the need for recording software or equipment.

The new Web 2.0 software application from iotum is called Calliflower.  It was first launched as a Facebook application but now it’s available as a stand-alone Web 2.0 tool.  It’s utility as a podcasting tool is well demonstrated by the Gillmor Gang and NewsGang Live podcasts.

Here is how it works:

Participants in the podcasts are connected on a conference call via Calliflower.  The call is recorded using Calliflower’s RECORD feature, then finished and edited by the producer of the shows and released as a podcast.

Since Calliflower is a Web 2.0 application, it is accessible to anyone with an internet connection.  It’s easy to use and it’s FREE, at least for home- and casual-users.  The only equipment needed is a telephone.

The organizer of the call sets it up on Calliflower.  Invitations are sent to the participants to inform them of the time of the call with a phone number and a PIN code.  The participants call the provided telephone number at the prearranged time.  The PIN is entered when prompted and the recording begins once there are two people on the call.

(Participants without an internet connection can be contacted by the organizer by phone with the time of the call, the phone number, and the PIN.)

Recording conference calls on Calliflower is optional, but it makes the process easy for first-time podcasters.  I must say here that I haven’t tried it yet, other than observing how it’s used during live NewsGang podcasts.  The difference between theory and practice will be the topic of another post.

I am optimistic that using Calliflower will allow me to postpone any significant investment in podcasting hardware until I have a better idea of how dedicated I will be to this hobby.  I expect that Audacity, the audio-editing software, will be sufficient for the kind of editing I intend to do at first.  What an adventure!

Now it’s time for the real work and the real fun.  It’s time to start working seriously on the content.  Time for some serious fun!