What can you use the application for?
Newsvine.com as the name suggests is a news website, albeit with a difference. In this application, news from the wire sources like ‘The associated press’ and ESPN are tagged and posted on the site. Additionally registered members can also post their own news as well as seed posts which are linked to the original news source. This translates into an interesting, interactive and dynamic site. The articles can be voted on and tagged, making it a social site as well. The creators of newsvine.com have designed the site in such a manner that irritating spam is done away with. There is a area called Greenhouse where the new members are quarantined and depending on the feedback received ,they are elevated to the main website . This ensures that one does not get to see advertisements of lingerie and Viagra pasted everywhere in the name of news.
What is the history and popularity of the application?
Newsvine was started by veterans of Disney, ESPN and other media groups in March 2006. It became a wholly-owned subsidiary of MSNBC Interactive News (msnbc.com) on October 5, 2007. The exact number of registered and active members is not known but going by the news columns, there is plenty of activity on this site. The news is topical and rarely one would find stale reporting.
What are the differences to other applications?
The main feature of newsvine.com is user interaction, tagging and voting. This translates into fresh and early reporting of important news as perceived by readers. Instead of reading about personal escapades of people, the news on this website is displayed depending on popularity, which means quality information. Another feature of seeding or putting links to origin of news feeds is unique in this application. This ensures fast and quick display of relevant news. The application provides news from regular wire sources as well as user generated news. This provides balance and a good mix of news.
How does the application look and feel to use?
The news items change periodically every ten seconds. The news display at the center of the screen is attractive and catchy. The user interface for registration and login is simple. Navigation has been kept to a basic level without any complicated submenu. Overall, newsvine.com conforms to a good interface design standards.
How does the registration process work?
The registration process is simple and straight forward. On registering, a link is sent to the email address. On clicking on the link provided in the confirmation email, a user is registered automatically. One should be careful while providing the email address, which should be real, since confirmation of email address, is part of the registration process. Of course, one should be thirteen or over to become a member.
What does it cost to use the application?
Registering with newsvine.com is free.
Who would you recommend the application to?
Newsvine.com provides topical news which is available at one single source. Those interested in commenting on news articles and generally follow-up on news items will find this site quite interesting. The application is simple and members can participate in a number of ways and interact with other members. Modules with public, private and group sharing are innovative and unique. A person with basic knowledge of web navigation can start using this application. There is no need for technical expertise or some specialized knowledge.
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