Five Pros
1. It is relatively easy (at least initially) to set yourself up with a blog using off-the-shelf websites such as Wordpress and Blogger. You don't need to learn hyper text mark up language to get up and running.
2. In contrast to other publicity and communication methods in it's basic form it is also relatively inexpensive. As long as you already have a desk top or lap top computer. Failing that, you could even use your local library facilities or an Internet cafe.
3.Blogging can be wonderfully and amazingly creative. Your blog is your 'baby' and to a certain extent, you can do what you like with it. Unlike writing for a magazine or newspaper, there are no gatekeepers who might censor your work in the shape of editors!
4. A blog can be an extremely versatile animal. It can serve many different purposes. A personal blog can be kept as a family diary and you can kit it out with a password, so only particular people can read it. It can be a historical or educational document. News blogs, if done properly have the flexiblity to transmit information in a way that no other form of media can.
5.Bloggers can communicate across global borders relatively easily. If you want to establish a blog for the purposes of Internet Marketing, you can measure and track the success of your blog using site tools and electronic relationship management systems. There are also lots of free analytical tools out there like Google Analytics and Sitemeter.
Five Cons
1. Bloggingcan appear deceptively simple. Too simple. It's easy to start up a blog. Most blogs die out within the first month of their lives. That's because bloggers need staying power.
2. It's tough. Start a blogand you're on a fast learning curve - not least because there are thousands of well crafted blogs out there and you need to keep up with the competition.
3. You can find yourself in a grey area as far as ethics and the law is concerned. You don't necessarily have the protection of a professional association or a union.
4. Bloggers can burn out. It's sometimes really difficult to pace yourself. You may start out really enthusiastic and then find the ideas and inspiration are running out. That's when you wonder why you started it in the first place!
5. Blogging can never replace human contact. With all Internet based activities there's a risk that those who take part will become sedentary animals. Blogging can become a health risk!