Keeping up with the pace of today’s technology can be a frustrating and sometimes confusing ordeal. Arguably an even faster moving technology is that of the web. I can remember as I approached graduation at ITT Tech that a good bit of the programs, languages, and various tools that we had been learning and working with were already beginning to go by the wayside. So if you are working in the field of web as a designer or developer, here are a few simple ways to keep yourself informed:

Blogs
There are many, many blogs out there that are done by experts in the field. Some focus more specific areas than others and some will cover a broader range of topics. When you find a blogger that you find helpful, always make note of any links they have displayed. Most of the time, bloggers will post links to their favorite sites and/or blogs. If you have found that blogger helpful, then more than likely you can find good use in the sites that they link to. Also, add the blogs that you like to your RSS feed reader when available. This allows you to see any updated entries quickly, without having to go to each site individually.

Podcasts
I am a confessed late bloomer to podcasts. That being said, I was very suprised when I finally decided to look into it, of the plethora of podcasts in the field of web. I have found plenty of useful podcasts for both the design and development aspects of web and most are free to subscribe to. However, podcasts are like the inernet in that you need to investigate a little to be sure the person knows what they are talking about instead of just taking their word for it.

Tutorials/Training
Something else that is very helpful is taking part in various tutorials, trainings and webinars. There are a ton out there that are available and most of them stay on top of the ever changing climate of web technology. Lynda.com is an online video tutorial service that we at Mountainside Media have benefited a great deal from. They even go outside the box of web and include tutorials on graphic design, video production, and much more.

To conclude, there is a ton of information out there. Finding what is helpful to you in staying on top of these technological advances can help make these transitions smoother and easier to endure.