When the time comes to write an article, web copy, or any piece, I always know exactly where to start. At the beginning. Or at the end. Sometimes in the middle. I realized a few years ago that I don't think I've ever approached two pieces in the exact same way and had...
Michael Gowan posts
What Is a Content Strategist?
Over the weekend I had to explain what I do to someone who doesn't deal with content, and I found it a good exercise. Finding the right words to make foreign concepts relevant and doing it succinctly -- that's a hallmark of good content. I wear many hats, but the most...
Assessing Content: Thinking like the Old and the New
For an existing site, one of the first things I recommend is a content assessment. This process involves evaluating the content on the page for clarity and comprehension, but also looking for what is missing. To do this, I have to think like a new user, but I also...
Maintaining Web Content: The Real Work Begins
When it comes to web content, life begins after launch. Prelaunch is where all the excitement is: the ideas, the writing, the approvals. But once the content is launched and available to the world, are you ready for what comes next? Web content lives forever (or until...
What’s Most Important in Writing Content?
Content creation is a multi-step process. Off the top of my head, I can think of these parts: Voice and tone: Who are you writing as? Voice and tone tells the reader a lot about the company or publication’s intent. Grammar and consistency: Content needs to obey the...