The Digital world is VERY ELABORATE

Search Engine Optimization is truly more technical than I thought.  It merely took me 2 laptops so that I could have several screens open to review the processes of optimizing my websites.  Not only do you have to register each page but add certain elements that may include how your site is being monitored in the future.  For example, the frequency that your website changes, certain parameters, and how many posts your blog may have etc.

I reviewed how to submit a sitemap via BloggerSentral website.  It was exactly what I needed to assist me introducing my website to the digital world even further.  As of now, my website was just words typed on a site.  You could find me, If I provided you with a link first.  But my goal was to be found accidentally!

I researched further and discovered another website, Seomoz.  Entitled “The Beginner’s Guide to SEO”, it was sure to assist me in what I needed to get accomplished.  Divided in Chapters, starting from how Search Engines Operate, to How Usability, Experience, and Content Affect Ratings, and ending with Measuring and Tracking Success.  The Chapter that intrigued me the most was Chapter 7: Growing Popularity and Links.  I post what I feel my readers will benefit from.  So, here is what I can do to assist you.  One important concept from the guide “suggests that the links from sites within a topic-specific community matter more than links from general or off-topic sites (seomoz).  Also there is what is called, TrustRank.  Due to the amounts of spam on the Internet, certain sites rank higher due to their reputability.  Those organizations include Universities, federal websites and/or some non-profit organizations. 

Ultimately, I have a lot to learn and this assignment completely intrigued me.  I want to maximize my online presence.  I’ve added analytics capabilities to my blog, as well as using Google Webmaster tools to upload my sitemap.  All in all, this was an experience that I will have to continue to revisit so that I can become more proficient at SEO!



Photo: lib.berkeley.edu
Sources: http://www.google.com/analytics/, http://www.bloggersentral.com/, and http://www.seomoz.org/.

LMP Self-Publishing: Things to Consider (PART TWO)

          Self-publishing can be a daunting task, especially if you are not well-prepared.  I will continue in this post to elaborate on what I feel should be considered in the process of self-promotion.  Make sure the sound/audio quality of the recording is industry-standard or close!  Again, you want to be taken seriously.  If you can obtain the sound from recording in GarageBand or by investing in a studio that uses Cubase or ProTools, then just get the job done. 

          Research venues for where you would like your music to be played at the local scene.  Do your research, because some venues may look like a cool place to do a show or album-release party, but be totally catered to a genre that doesn’t resemble your sound/music in any way.  You want to attempt to choose venues where music that is similar to what you produce.  Don’t get me wrong, you want to capture a wide audience, but chances are that more people would be willing to buy your album at the end of the night if they already listen to your style of music.  This is very important when you are promoting yourself.  There is never an endless supply of funds, especially when we are fronting the bill.

          What other items will you make available for sale?  Have other ways to bring in money at your shows or on your website.  Some ideas are merchandise (i.e. tour shirts, stickers, key chains), the actual EP/album, or even download cards where the fans can purchase the album online by utilizing their individual code to redeem their music.  Music Duplication companies (i.e. Oasis and Discmakers), ooshirts, zazzle, Empire Promos, Discount Mug$ and Pinnacle Promotions are some companies that can assist with merchandise.

          This next concept may take some time, but I recommend thoroughly establishing your list of contacts through which you can promote your music.  I am still, every day compiling my list.  They will include videographers, photographers, musicians, producers, artists, radio djs (including online radio), and in my case also TV & Film Music Directors.  There is also another way to gather a list of industry contacts that requires a fee.  I, however, haven’t utilized that because I want the most up to date information.  So, by researching and confirming, you will have the most accurate information.  I had a list years ago that was supposed to be updated, and the phone/address of the Industry Executive was not valid.  You have to realize that these publications do expire as insiders may change their information even before the publication is mass produced.  In due time, I hope to make the proper connects through other people as their direct contact.  Everyone knows someone who knows someone.  So, just keep in mind you always want to be in the know, and self-publishing is not about being shy.  Introduce yourself! You never know who you may meet.

LMP-Self-Publishing: Things To Consider (PART ONE)

          When it comes to publishing work, music in this case, many things come into play.  First, making sure that work is registered with the United States Copyright Office is important.  The sites now have it available to register works online (http://www.copyright.gov/forms/) for $35 without having to mail in ($65 fee) either form: Sound Recording (SR), Performing Arts (PA), Visual Arts (VA), Literary Works (TX) or Single Serials (SE).  It is important that all compositions are registered to prevent misuse, defamation of brand, or better yet, anyone else capitalizing financially for their own benefit.  You want to make sure you have exclusive rights unless you license it to another entity based on your own terms.

          Next, I would make sure any logos or taglines are trademarked as well.  The website to Patent and Trademark Office is http://www.uspto.gov/.  Your logo is a part of your brand and clarifies what makes the organization different; it is the logo/tagline.  I would make sure it is trademarked. It is always better to prevent things from happening than to clean up a mess with litigation and court precedings.  If a court case is inevitable, then at least it is registered with the PTO.

         Professionalism is how one conducts himself but also what image is portrayed.  You want to make sure you try to invest in a professional photo shoot that can capture at least one or two solid band photos.  These photos can be used as album covers later, on flyers, on websites, or anytime the press may want to refer to the band.  The photos make you appear legitimate and you will be taken more seriously if you do.  Decide which avenues to pursue in regards to publishing, and determine what ways they can fit within the budget.  Are you going to print flyers and distribute them by hand?  Are you creating a street team to help you promote?  Will you be using social media to post events on Band Music pages, sending email blasts, creating official press releases, sending the radio stations Public Service Announcements (PSAs) or investing in a promotion company such as Capacity Productions or  Reverbnation.  Other companies also offer promotional services such as GoogleAds and Facebook marketing.