We are all pressed for time these days and feel like there’s not enough time to keep abreast of everything that’s happening in digital. What is the most popular programming language? What development framework should we bet our horses on? What is the latest social media tool my company needs to jump on to reach customers? Luckily there are a plethora of podcasts, web sites and online courses, but what’s worth spending time on?
- Start listening to tech podcasts
What better way to get ready for work in the morning than listening to your favorite tech podcast. Most of us commute 30 – 45 minutes each way every day. That’s enough time to take in a program or two. My favorite podcast is Software Engineering Daily. The Wall Street Journal has a fast-moving and brief 15- 20 minutes look at the future with WSJ The future of Everything. For a deep dive in to the inner workings of technology, try TechStuff.
2. Read the best blogs and tech sites
Stopping by selected tech blogs and web sites is something you should be in the habit of doing daily. Within a couple of weeks you start to see patterns and trends in what topics are hot and you will more easily select the best articles to read. My favorite site is Hacker Noon. Don’t be scared off by the name; this site features a massive amount of information about new tech.
An old favorite is CNET. This site features the latest product news and rumors on everything Samsung, Apple and other cool stuff. One site you might not have been to is Google’s The Keyword. This is more like a ‘slow-cooker’ in terms of tech news following what’s new with Google and Android. But considering that most of us use one or more Google products it’s the best place to get detailed information about Google’s products.
3. Take an online course
Massive Open Online Courses (MOOC) offerings have exploded in the last few years. Since it has been a few years since I left college, I use the courses to stay on top of new tech, frameworks and topics that piques my interest. I once took a class on Coursera on Roman Architecture that is highly recommended. Other great places to find online courses are Udemy and edX. You might think that online courses are expensive and that you don’t have the time to make a commitment to taking a class. But you might be surprised at how affordable it has become and how much you will enjoy it.
Try one or two of these tips and I’m certain you will cut through the noise in no time. And if you like, share your best tips on the blogs or sites you read to stay informed.