Media are basically the electronic communication tools utilized to send and receive information or data over the media. The word, media itself, refers to various elements of this vast mass communications industry, including the print media, television, radio, films, cinema, publishing, video, and the Internet. These different media have their own unique characteristics and functions, although some elements overlap in some instances. Media is also the word used in association with the process of popular entertainment and reporting, with the different parts of this encompassing books, films, music, video games, television, radio, and cinema.
Early forms of media helped shape the very foundation of modern civilization. It was through the transmission of culture that ideas and religions were passed from one person to another across the boundaries of the tribe and language. Early forms of media also served as an important means of human communication. Human communication through the medium of letters or through the spoken word has been in existence for centuries, and in recent years it has been made even more accessible through the wide use of the internet.
The first major form of media were print media such as the printed publications of newspapers and magazines. In recent years, television has surpassed the popularity of print media. Although, in some countries like Japan, television is now considered as a mass media because of its extensive use as a broadcasting medium. The development of film and motion pictures has brought about changes in the way communication takes place, making it the first true mass media.
The evolution of media is a continuing process, with new forms and technologies emerging every day. One of the most prominent and well-known forms of media today is the web. The Internet has been a source of increasing communication and information for people all over the world. However, unlike traditional forms of media like print media and television, there are certain restrictions when it comes to the use of the Internet. There are special codes that need to be transmitted through routers and connections to make the Internet function properly. Another limitation is the speed in which the data can be transmitted over long distances.
Social media refers to all those web-based resources that allow interaction between users based on shared interests, common views, or common views on a particular topic or other matters. For instance, social networking sites like Facebook, Twitter, MySpace, and the like are good examples of social media. The content of these web media is generally targeted to a specific group of people, often creating a sense of community for users and a popular venue for news and updates.
Earning media is one of the most important tasks of modern society. The evolution of the web has opened doors to the global market, giving rise to online marketing which, in turn, has brought about dramatic changes in the way advertisers market their products. Online marketing can be categorized into two main forms: search engine optimization (SEO) and paid search advertising (SPA). SEO is a technique that helps businesses gain high search engine rankings by using keywords and building link popularity. In SEO, companies use strategies like link building, pay per click (PPC), and paid placements. On the other hand, in SPA, media players like social networking websites, blogs, video sites, and podcasts make use of media players so as to reach their audience.