Online news is similar to traditional print media—you can find local news, arts and entertainment information, political coverage, sports scores, even specialized news coverage for niche audiences. There's an online news source for everyone from bankers to art dealers, for example. And, online news providers emphasize breaking news, so even if you can't find it on TV or in the newspaper, you can turn to Internet news providers.

Through online news content providers, you can:

1. Watch video or a live news broadcast.
2. Read local, national and international news.
3. Find news related to your profession or industry.
4. Learn what others think, from opinion, commentary and analysis.
5. Submit your own online news articles.
   

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Watch an online news broadcast

Most broadcast outlets feature streaming video on their websites. You can watch live news coverage, or find a news report that you missed.

I recommend: Watch video from national networks like ABC or CBS. Or, find television news broadcasts from around the world at Broadcast Live.

Read your community's online news through your local newspaper or TV station's site

Many news hounds are drawn to online news services because you can find coverage from anywhere in the world, but these services are also a great way to keep up with your local news. Nearly all community newspapers and television stations are online as well, allowing you to monitor local events even if you're away from home.

I recommend: Search for your local media outlet at DailyEarth, Yahoo or the Internet Public Library.

Find in-depth coverage at online news magazines

Several news magazines are strictly online, and offer the same in-depth reporting found in nationally and internationally known publications. They also feature investigative reports, and everything from commentary and opinion pieces, to analysis of lifestyle trends.

I recommend: Slate, a free online news magazine, covers everything from the arts to science to travel. Check out the "Make Slate my Home Page" feature. Salon.com, with free and premium editions, covers business, politics and popular culture; use the directory to find just what you're looking for.

Monitor the stock market at online financial news providers

The economy is a volatile, fluctuating entity, and even a news article published yesterday may not be relevant today. At online financial news sites, you can keep an eye on current stock prices, and learn about economic events in other parts of the world that may soon affect the local economy.

I recommend: Track the financial situation at home and around the world at Bloomberg.com, MarketWatch.com or CNBC.com.

Enhance your website with online news feeds providers

Provide more features for your site's visitors with real-time news feeds, offered by major news services, and by news providers for websites. While visitors are reading your coverage, they can also stay informed of national and international news, possibly encouraging them to stay at your site longer. You can also stream these feeds directly to your desktop, so you can stay alert on current events no matter where your web surfing takes you.

I recommend: International news service Reuters offers free RSS feeds that individuals and non-profit organizations can add to their websites or blogs. The Associated Press also offers free RSS feeds to individuals, as does National Public Radio (NPR) and many of its member stations.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Take advantage of the interactive nature of Internet news services. Don't limit yourself to just browsing the articles; while you're there, also leave a comment for the site's reporters or editors, or discuss the issues with other readers in the forums.