Finding Inspiration for MS Access Blogs

[Uncle Gizmo]

In this week's Newsletter, Mike said “I'm always on the lookout for:” --- Blog ideas.

Introduction​

Creating engaging blog content for Microsoft Access can be a daunting task, especially when you're searching for fresh and relevant ideas. Mike Wolfe from No Longer Set recently asked for blog ideas, and it got me thinking about where I find inspiration for my own blog posts. Here, I’ll share my strategies, drawing from both traditional and modern sources, and delve into the pros and cons of textual and video blogging.

Leveraging Old Smart Access Articles​

One of my primary sources of inspiration comes from old Smart Access articles. I have a stack of these articles that I revisit periodically to spark new ideas. Fortunately, these articles are also available online, which makes them accessible to anyone seeking inspiration for their Microsoft Access content.

Link to Smart Access Articles:

Search for:- vb123 dot com

Site containing - 400+ of the best Microsoft Access articles, all for free

Joining and Participating in Forums​

Another valuable resource for blog ideas is forums. I'm an active member of the MS Access World Forums, a UK-based forum with a majority of US members. While scanning forums for ideas can be challenging, actively participating and answering questions can be incredibly rewarding. By answering questions, you not only help others but also discover common problems and solutions that can be turned into blog topics.

Developing Generic Solutions​

When answering forum questions, focus on finding generic solutions that can apply to a broader audience. This approach helps in creating content that is widely useful and can enhance your blogging material. Over time, this practice will also aid in the development of products and tools that address common issues in Microsoft Access.

The Challenges of Textual Blogging​

Writing blogs about Microsoft Access can be demanding. It requires discipline, precision, and regular updates to ensure accuracy. Additionally, incorporating images, screenshots, and formatted code can be time-consuming. Despite these challenges, the effort can lead to high-quality, informative content that benefits a wide audience.

Exploring Video Blogging​

For those who find textual blogging cumbersome, video blogging can be an appealing alternative. However, creating effective video content comes with its own set of challenges. Early attempts at video blogging might feel laborious, and achieving a natural, engaging delivery takes practice. One method I found effective is answering someone’s question off the cuff while recording your screen. This approach creates a more genuine and relatable video.

Overcoming Video Blogging Challenges​

Talking to a blank screen can be awkward at first. To overcome this, imagine you're speaking to someone on the telephone. This trick can make the process feel more natural. Another hurdle is the editing process, which involves removing filler words and correcting mistakes. Editing a five-minute video can take an hour or more, but tools like Screencast-O-Matic (now ScreenPal) can make this process more manageable.

Enjoy the Process​

The most crucial advice I can offer is to enjoy the process. Whether you choose textual or video blogging, do it because you love it. Performance metrics like the number of hits should not be the sole measure of success. Sometimes, the videos or blogs you least expect to perform well will surprise you.

Conclusion​

With tools like ChatGPT to assist with spelling, punctuation, and even generating images, blogging can become a more enjoyable and efficient process. Embrace the journey, experiment with different formats, and find what works best for you. Happy blogging!

Addendum:​

Personal Insights and Challenges​

While I've shared structured methods and strategies for blogging about Microsoft Access, I want to acknowledge some of the personal challenges and nuances I've experienced.

Personal Touch and Forum Engagement​

Engaging with forums such as MS Access World Forums has been a cornerstone of my journey. Over 25 years of answering questions, I've become selective, often choosing questions where I know the answer or see an opportunity to learn. This not only keeps me motivated but also ensures that my contributions are valuable and informed by real-world experience.

Specific vs. Generic Solutions​

One significant challenge I've faced is the need to translate specific solutions into generic ones. Often, the questions asked in forums are highly specific, making it difficult to create blog content that is broadly applicable. However, this challenge has a silver lining: it forces me to refine my solutions and think more critically about how they can be generalized and improved over time.

The Realities of Blogging​

Blogging, especially about technical topics like Microsoft Access, requires a high level of precision and regular updates. It can feel like a chore, especially when considering the need for images, formatted code, and meticulous proofreading. Despite these hurdles, I've found that tools like ChatGPT can significantly streamline the process, making it more manageable and less daunting.

The Ups and Downs of Video Blogging​

My foray into video blogging has been filled with trial and error. Initial attempts were less than stellar, but with persistence, I found a method that worked for me: impromptu responses to user questions with screen recordings. This approach felt more natural and engaging, even though it involved a steep learning curve and extensive editing.

Embracing the Process​

Ultimately, the key takeaway from my experience is to enjoy the process. Whether it's writing detailed blogs or creating off-the-cuff videos, the goal is to find joy in sharing knowledge and helping others. Metrics like views and hits are secondary to the satisfaction of creating something valuable and enjoyable.