We've written in the past about users' reluctance to accept RSS and how that affects marketers. In short, users aren't grasping the technology (or just don't care) while marketers and publishers are spending valuable time and resources trying to attract subscribers.
Now, Guy Kawasaki's Alltop RSS reader, MyAlltop, offers a way that might bring RSS to the masses. It's an easy-to-use aggregator of news feeds where users can create an account in seconds, then browse or search for feeds to add to their page. Drag-and-drop functionality enables further customization. The site is ultra-clean and easy to read, offering dead-simple functionality.
There's no doubt that RSS is a valuable tool. For Web professionals, this is nothing new. But for users, the missing link has always been the cumbersome process of adding RSS feeds to a home page, and a basic lack of knowledge of the service as a whole. An interesting note - nowhere on the Alltop page is the term "RSS" mentioned. Instead terms are used like "subscriptions to websites and blogs."
For publishers, a rise in Alltop users might end up being a good way to introduce your RSS feed to those unfamiliar with RSS. If this past year is any indication (245% growth), you could find a new, important channel to spread your content. Make sure to check that your site is included in the Alltop index. If not, you can submit your site for inclusion.