Styling RSS Feeds

Until I saw my main Blog from Italy site being featured, via an RSS feed, on the GlobalPost site, I did not really know that it was possible to style feeds.

Now I know that it can be done - as long as you know css and, use a plugin for Wordpress which can help you add the style information - just Google 'Feedstyler'.

Now my feed looks better, but not perfect. Need to develop my css skills!

Actually, looking at many of the sites I've subscribed to via Google Reader, it's surprising just how few bother to supply styled feeds - even some quite big names.

If you see all images pushed hard over to the left in your feed reader, then this means the feed is not being styled.

On the other hand, those using the Blogger platform who pop images in the centre of the page seem to get their images positioned in the same way in their feeds.

Wordpress developers take note: Please supply a 'feed.css' style sheet!

Wordpress and Blogger Thoughts

Wordpress is great. Blogger is good too. However there is a world of difference between using Blogger and Wordpress.com.

Running a database driven site takes time and effort. With a stand alone Wordpress site, aside from producing content you need to keep an eye on the database, make sure pages load quickly, try not to get carried away with too many plugins, like me.

Then there is security. The www is full of types who would like nothing better than to ruin all your hard work. People have given up running blogs because of security and hacking related problems. You need to keep on top of things, or else you will be faced with the prospect of untangling a mass incomprehensible data. Most will give up, some may be able to afford go techs to help, others will have backups.

If you run a database driven site, backups are imperative. Ignore this at your peril.

Luckily Blogger takes care of everything for you. OK so you do not have a flash domain, but then it is all free.

Think carefully before setting up your own site. It can be a full time job, with zero pay.