Headlines Plugin

Show headline news in TWiki pages based on RSS and ATOM news feeds from external sites

Description

This plugin displays RSS and ATOM feeds from news sites. Use it to build news portals that show headline news.

Note: Syndic8.com ( http://www.syndic8.com/ ) lists many RSS feeds.

Syntax Rules

%HEADLINES{"..."}%

Parameter Explanation Default
"..." source of RSS feed; this can be an url (starting with http) or a web.topic location for internal feeds None; is required
href="..." (Alternative to above) N/A
refresh="60" Refresh rate in minutes for caching feed; "0" for no caching Global REFRESH setting
limit="12" Maximum number of items shown Global LIMIT setting
touch="..." Touch (edit/save) topics if the feed has updates. Specify a comma-space delimited list of TopicNames or Web.TopicNames, such as "%TOPIC%, NewsLetter". Useful to send out newsletter using MailerContrib, showing new feeds since last newsletter. To update feeds, visit topics with feeds in regular intervals (using cron with wget or the like). N/A
header Header. Can include these variables: - $channeltitle, $title: title of channel (channel.title) - $channellink, $link: link of channel (channel.link) - $channeldescription, $description: description (channel.description) - $channeldate, $date: publication date of the channel (channel.pubDate) - $rights: copyrights of the channel (channel.copyright) - $imagetitle: title text for site (image.title) - $imagelink: link for site (image.link) - $imageurl: URL of image (image.url) - $imagedescription: description of image (image.description) Global HEADER setting
format Format of one item. Can include these variables: - $title: news item title (item.title) - $link: news item link (item.link) - $description: news item description (item.description) - $date: the publication date (item.pubDate, item.date) - $category: the article category (item.category) Global FORMAT setting

The header and format parameters might also use variables rendering the dc, image and content namespace information. Note, that only bits of interest have been implemented so far and those namespaces might not be implemented fully yet.

Rendering the dc namespace

The following variables are extracting the dc namespace info, that could be used in header and format. Nnote, that some of the variables are already used above. This is done by purpose to use different feeds with the same formating parameters. If there's a conflict the non-dc tags have higher precedence, i.e. a <title> content </title> is prefered over <dc:title> content </dc:title> .

  • $title: channel/article title (dc:title)
  • $creator: channel creator (dc:creator)
  • $subject: subject text; this will also add an image according to the subject hash list, see above (dc:subject)
  • $description: ... (dc:description)
  • $publisher: the channel/article publisher (dc:publisher)
  • $contributor: ... (dc:contributor)
  • $date: ... (dc:date)
  • $type: ... (dc:type)
  • $format: ... (dc:format)
  • $identifier: ... (dc:identifier)
  • $source: ... (dc:source)
  • $language: ... (dc:language)
  • $relation: ... (dc:relation)
  • $coverage: ... (dc: coverage)
  • $rights: ... (dc: rights)

Rendering the image namespace

An image:item is converted into an <img> tag using the following mappings:

  • src: image url (rdf:about attribute of the image.item tag)
  • alt: image title (title)
  • width: image width (image:width)
  • height: image height image:height)

Rendering the content namespace

The variable $content is refering to the <content:encoding> content </content:encoding>.

Examples

Slashdot News

Write

%HEADLINES{ "http://slashdot.org/slashdot.rdf" 
  header="*[[$link][$title]]:* $description" 
  format="$t* [[$link][$title]]"
  limit="4"
}%
to get the latest Slashdot news as a bullet list format:

Business Opportunities Weblog

Write

%HEADLINES{ "http://www.business-opportunities.biz/feed" limit="2" }%

to get the latest postings on the "Business Opportunities" weblog:

Thu, 31 Oct 2024 23:33:18 +0000
The original blog about business opportunities and business ideas for small business entrepreneurs
Thu, 31 Oct 2024 23:33:16 +0000 Carrol Strain

Unprecedented shifts and opportunities are budding in the global real estate market these days. Changes brought by economic, political, and technological factors pose prospects and challenges for businesspeople and investors. Thus, they need to stay abreast of strategic investments in order to continue reaping success in the real estate world. In this article, entrepreneurs can find ways to maximize their growth and returns by turning to global real estate markets.

How to Understand Global Real Estate

It is vital to understand the underlying dynamics that shape the world of real estate investments. A great way of detecting market stability and predictability is through monitoring economic indicators such as GDP growth, employment rates, and inflation. Entrepreneurs need to monitor these indicators to measure possible risks and rewards. Political climates, regulatory environments, and taxation policies can also affect real estate investments, whether global or local. This is because investments are fruitful in regions with stable political environments due to fewer supervisory setbacks.

Real Estate and Technology

Real estate markets are continually reshaped by technological advancements. These developments are driving productivity and changing how properties are bought, sold, and managed using proptech, smart buildings, and digital platforms. (Proptech is a portmanteau of “property” and “technology,” or the practice of using technology to improve the real estate industry.)

Also becoming essential are environmental and sustainability considerations. Investors consider sustainable properties to bed attractive investment options in global real estate. These properties receive favorable incentives as they strive to reduce carbon footprints and enhance livability.

Emerging Markets in Global Real Estate

The most dynamic and lucrative opportunities can usually be found in emerging markets. The rapid urbanization and economic growth of cities like Bangalore, Jakarta, and Lagos make them promising locations for investment. Their burgeoning middle class, infrastructural developments, and favorable government policies also contribute to their continued rise. For example, commercial spaces in Bangalore are a growing tech hub, leading several technology startups to invest in that area. Forward-thinking entrepreneurs use a regional focus strategy to identify promising locations that offer potential high returns for their investments.

Aside from emerging markets, established markets are also gaining opportunities. Take, for example, New York, Tokyo, and London. They can adapt to modern challenges and create new investment prospects as they revitalize downtown areas and improve public transportation. In Seatle, to give another example, industrial districts that were once overlooked are being revived into flourishing commercial and residential zones. Investors merely need to identify these niches inside the markets that yield substantial returns and can adapt to changing times.

Sectors and Their Different Opportunities

Various sectors in real estate markets offer unique opportunities. Due to urban population growth and the demand for housing, residential real estate remains essential on a global scale. Nowadays, investors are eyeing global residential markets as they feature reasonable and mid-range segments appropriate for younger demographics.

Meanwhile, commercial real estate is developing these days as the rise of remote jobs increases the demand for flexible and co-working environments over traditional office spaces. Also experiencing a boom are industrial and logistics real estate markets because of supply chain modernization and e-commerce growth.

RELATED ARTICLE: 10 SKILLS OF SUCCESSFUL REAL ESTATE AGENTS

Diversification in Global Real Estate

Niche markets such as co-working spaces, real estate investment trusts (REITs), and data centers offer diversification for investors in global real estate. With the rise of new norms, businesses and consumers alike are looking to niche markets to provide unique opportunities.

Global real estate faces both opportunities and challenges. Adversely affecting the asset valuations are economic fluctuations that can lead to market instability. Also, regulatory frameworks and legal complexities require meticulous navigation to ensure compliance, as they differ from region to region.

Socio-Political Factors

Affecting consumer behavior and property values are cultural and socio-political factors. That is why addressing these challenges is vital for improving investment success and minimizing risks.

Thorough planning and strategy are essential to gain success in the global real estate market. Investors should conduct extensive market research and perform inclusive due diligence, ensuring that they are fully informed about local markets and trends.

Having a diversified portfolio can help investors minimize risks in their ventures. They can protect themselves against localized market downturns if they choose to spread their investments across multiple regions and sectors. Asking for help from experts and local partners can further assist them in getting into complex markets and accessing special prospects.

Conclusion

Entrepreneurs should base their informed decisions on extensive research and advice from industry experts and consultants. Investors can find the help of experts by attending Elta Showflat in Singapore’s innovative Elta condo development in Clementi Town. They can gain deeper insights into market dynamics and refine their investment strategies if they utilize cutting-edge market analysis tools and platforms. They can also enhance their understanding and readiness by checking out recommended readings such as global real estate market reports and economic forecasts.

RELATED ARTICLE: 24 BUSINESS IDEAS IN REAL ESTATE THAT ARE VERY SUCCESSFUL

The post Entrepreneurs Turn to Global Real Estate Markets for Growth appeared first on BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES.

Wed, 30 Oct 2024 20:36:46 +0000 Carrol Strain

If you have an idea for a new piece of software, you might choose to work with a software development expert. But with so many custom software developers on the market, you might not know how to find the right partner for your needs.

How should you go about finding the right software development expert?

The Unlimited Potential of Custom Software Development

One of the greatest appeals of custom software development is that you can make almost anything you can imagine. Your only real constraints are the limits of current technology, and even then, the right team can help you push those boundaries. If you have a burning idea for a novel piece of software and you can’t build that software on your own, custom software development is your best option.

Why You Need to Be Discerning with Regard to Software Development

Of course, not all custom software developers are created equal, and not all custom software development investments are worth making.

You’ll need to be discerning in your selection of a software development partner, and for multiple reasons:

Costs of Software Development

For starters, some software developers are more expensive than others. On some level, you get what you pay for, and it’s worth investing in qualified software developers who truly know what they’re doing. But at the same time, if you spend too much developing your project, you may never be able to make it profitable. You need to be able to stay within your budget.

Quality of the Work

You’ll also need to think about the quality of the work these software developers can do. Some custom software developers simply won’t have the tools or resources necessary to build your project, or build it in a reasonable timeframe. Others may not be perfectly reliable in terms of delivery or project integrity.

Experience Level of the Developer

Developing a piece of custom software is a long, somewhat intensive process, especially if your software is complicated or particularly large. Accordingly, you’ll need to think about a software development partner who can make the experience an enjoyable one. You need a good communicator as much as you need a good developer.

The Future of Your Software Development Project

Also think about how this relationship can develop into the future. Are you going to be adding to this piece of custom software? Do you have plans for other software in the future?

RELATED ARTICLE: DRIVING SUCCESS: THE ROLE OF A QUALITY MANAGEMENT SYSTEM

How to Find the Best Software Development Partner

These tips can help you find the best software development partner from the outset.

  • Thoroughly analyze your idea and your needs. Before you even start your search, thoroughly analyze your idea and needs. What type of software do you want to create? What types of skills will your developers need? What types of experiences will be most helpful in developing your idea?
  • Establish your biggest priorities. Next, work on establishing your biggest priorities. What features are going to be most important for your software? How quickly does this project need to be developed? What are you willing to spend, and would you increase that amount if it meant fulfilling your other priorities?
  • Set a budget. Setting a budget for custom software development can be challenging, in part because pricing varies so wildly between developers. Still, you should have a ballpark figure in mind before you start looking for potential candidates.
RELATED ARTICLE: BOOSTING SMALL BUSINESS EFFICIENCY: TOP TOOLS YOU NEED
  • Choose onshore, offshore, or nearshore. Onshore developers are typically highly reliable and easy to communicate with but expensive. Offshore developers are typically inexpensive, but perhaps less reliable and harder to communicate with. Nearshore developers are somewhere in the middle. Figure out which option is going to be best for you.
  • Choose between agencies, employees, and contractors. There are similar pros and cons associated with agencies, employees, and contractors. Working with software development agencies puts you in touch with some of the most talented teams of people in the business, but you’ll pay more for the experience. Hiring full-time employees can be expensive and challenging, but you’ll also get total control over the team internally. Working with contractors is much less expensive, but opens you up to issues with reliability and consistency. You may even want to use a combination of these options, depending on the nature of your project.
  • Communicate early and openly. Good communication is the foundation of effective project management. Make sure you communicate early and openly about your needs and preferences when you start narrowing down the list of custom software developers.
  • Review your options carefully. Don’t close yourself off to any options until you’ve fully explored them. Review all your possibilities carefully before making your next move.

Coming up with a good software idea is challenging. Finding the right software development partner can be even more challenging. However, with the right process and a discerning mindset, you’ll be in a much better position to find the right fit for your needs.

RELATED ARTICLE: TOP 5 CHALLENGES FACED BY SMALL BUSINESSES IN 2024

The post How to Find the Best Software Development Partner appeared first on BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES.

Plugin Settings

Plugin settings are stored as preferences variables. To reference a plugin setting write %<plugin>_<setting>%, for example, %HEADLINESPLUGIN_SHORTDESCRIPTION%. Note: Don't modify the settings here; copy and customize the settings in Main.TWikiPreferences. For example, to customize the USERAGENTNAME setting, create a HEADLINESPLUGIN_USERAGENTNAME setting in Main.TWikiPreferences.

  • One line description, shown in the TextFormattingRules topic:
    • Set SHORTDESCRIPTION = Show headline news in TWiki pages based on RSS and ATOM news feeds from external sites

  • Refresh rate in minutes for cached feeds. Disable caching: 0, default: 60
    • Set REFRESH = 60

  • Maximum number of items shown. Default: 100
    • Set LIMIT = 100

  • Use LWP::UserAgent, or fallback to TWiki's internal getUrl() method. Default: yes
    • Set USELWPUSERAGENT = yes

  • Timeout fetching a feed using the LWP::UserAgent. Default: 20
    • Set USERAGENTTIMEOUT = 20

  • Name of user agent. Default: TWikiHeadlinesPlugin/2.21
      * Set USERAGENTNAME = TWikiHeadlinesPlugin/2.21

  • Default header: (variables are explained in the syntax rules)
      * Set HEADER = <div class="headlinesChannel"><div class="headlinesLogo"><img src="$imageurl" alt="$imagetitle" border="0" />%BR%</div><div class="headlinesTitle">$n---+!! <a href="$link">$title</a></div><div class="headlinesDate">$date</div><div class="headlinesDescription">$description</div><div class="headlinesRight">$rights</div></div>

  • Default format of one item: (variables are explained in the syntax rules)
      * Set FORMAT = <div class="headlinesArticle"><div class="headlinesTitle"><a href="$link">$title</a></div>$n<span class="headlinesDate">$date</span> <span class="headlinesCreator"> $creator</span> <span class="headlinesSubject"> $subject </span>$n<div class="headlinesText"> $description</div></div>

  • Values taken from configure: (only supported if CPAN:LWP is installed)
    • $TWiki::cfg{PROXY}{HOST} - proxy host, such as "proxy.example.com";
    • $TWiki::cfg{PROXY}{PORT} - proxy port, such as "8080";
    • $TWiki::cfg{PROXY}{SkipProxyForDomains} - domains excluded from proxy, such as "intra.example.com, bugs.example.com";

Style Sheets

The default HEADER and FORMAT settings use the following styles. See the style.css file defining the default CSS properties (indentation illustrates enclosure).

  • headlinesRss: output of the HeadlinesPlugin (div)
    • headlinesChannel: channel header (div)
      • headlinesLogo: channel logo (div)
      • headlinesTitle: channel title (div)
      • headlinesDate: channel date (div)
      • headlinesDescription: channel description (div)
      • headlinesRight: channel copyright (div)
    • headlinesArticle: one news item (div)
      • headlinesTitle: article title (div)
      • headlinesDate: article date (span)
      • headlinesCreator: author of article (span)
      • headlinesSubject: subect category of the article (span)
      • headlinesText: article text (div)

Plugin Installation Instructions

  • Download the ZIP file.
  • Unzip it in your twiki installation directory. Content:
    File: Description:
    data/TWiki/HeadlinesPlugin.txt plugin topic
    pub/TWiki/HeadlinesPlugin/style.css default css
    lib/TWiki/HeadlinesPlugin.pm plugin perl module
    lib/TWiki/HeadlinesPlugin/Core.pm plugin core
    Check if above examples show a news feed instead of variable.
  • Optionally, run HeadlinesPlugin_installer.pl to automatically check and install other TWiki modules that this module depends on. You can also do this step manually.
  • Alternatively, manually make sure the dependencies listed in the table below are resolved.
    NameVersionDescription
    Digest::MD5>=2.33Required. Download from CPAN:Digest::MD5
    LWP::UserAgent>=5.803Optional. Download from CPAN:LWP::UserAgent

Plugin Info

Plugin Author: TWiki:Main.PeterThoeny, TWiki:Main.MichaelDaum
Copyright: © 2002-2010, Peter Thoeny, Twiki, Inc.; 2005-2007, Michael Daum http://wikiring.de
License: GPL (GNU General Public License)
Plugin Version: v2.6 - 2010-05-16
Change History:  
2010-05-16: TWikibug:Item6433 - more doc improvements
2010-04-25: TWikibug:Item6433 - doc fix: Changing TWIKIWEB to SYSTEMWEB
2010-02-27: TWikibug:Item6313 - fixed bug in ATOM feed with <link ...></link> instead of <link ... /> -- Peter Thoeny
2009-09-30: fixed bug in lastBuildDate of feeds affecting touch parameter functionality -- Peter Thoeny
2009-08-29: added touch parameter -- Peter Thoeny
12 Feb 2009: {PROXY}{HOST} supports domain with and without protocol -- Peter Thoeny
06 Feb 2009: added {PROXY}{SkipProxyForDomains} configure setting, added USERAGENTNAME plugin setting -- Peter Thoeny
11 Dec 2008: added {PROXY}{HOST} and {PROXY}{PORT} configure settings -- Peter Thoeny
13 Sep 2007: fixed parsing of content:encoded
23 Jul 2006: improved atom parser; if a posting has no title default to 'Untitled'
26 Apr 2006: added lazy compilation
10 Feb 2006: packaged using the TWiki:Plugins/BuildContrib; minor fixes
03 Feb 2006: off-by-one: limit="n" returned n+1 articles; make FORMAT and HEADER format strings more robust
23 Jan 2006: released v2.00
05 Dec 2005: internal feed urls must be absolute
02 Dec 2005: added web.topic shorthand for internal feeds
29 Nov 2005: fixed CDATA handling
21 Nov 2005: added ATOM support; extended RSS support; added dublin core support; added content support; optionally using LWP to fetch feeds to follow redirections; corrected CPAN dependencies ; recoding special chars from html integer to entity encoding to increase browser compatibility; added css support; use getWorkArea() if available
11 May 2005: TWiki:Main.WillNorris: added DevelopBranch compatability
31 Oct 2004: Fixed taint issue by TWiki:Main.AdrianWeiler; small performance improvement
29 Oct 2004: Fixed issue of external caching if mod_perl or SpeedyCGI is used
02 Aug 2002: Implemented caching of feeds, thanks to TWiki:Main/RobDuarte
11 Jun 2002: Initial version (V1.000)
Perl Version: 5.8
TWiki:Plugins/Benchmark: GoodStyle 100%, FormattedSearch 99.5%, HeadlinesPlugin 94%
Plugin Home: http://TWiki.org/cgi-bin/view/Plugins/HeadlinesPlugin
Feedback: http://TWiki.org/cgi-bin/view/Plugins/HeadlinesPluginDev
Appraisal: http://TWiki.org/cgi-bin/view/Plugins/HeadlinesPluginAppraisal

Related Topics: TWikiPlugins, AdminDocumentationCategory, TWikiPreferences

Topic revision: r1 - 2010-05-17 - TWikiContributor
 
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