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OPML - Other Peoples Meaningful Lists Print
Tuesday, 09 January 2007
Have you every browsed the web and seen a reference to OPML? If you were to look up the abbreviation, you would see it stands for “outline processor markup language”. It’s used for describing outline-based content like articles and play lists. I think a better representation is “other people’s meaningful lists”.

OPML is versatile format developed by Dave Winer that can be used for many things. For me, the beauty comes in the ability to share RSS feed information. For example, I’m finishing a RSS guide where I suggest people import an OPML file to test their RSS reader for display features. This starter file contains 11 feeds with different content types such as a Dilbert cartoon, audio file and text.

Rather than having the reviewers add 11 RSS feeds, they can import this OPML file. This cuts steps for them and ensures everyone is using the same feed list. OPML files make the process consistent and efficient.

My example is a simple one. You can probably think of several lists where you would like to share information with others. These lists could be work related or some hobby you enjoy. It doesn’t matter. You just need to collect the RSS feeds you love. Here are some examples,

  • Book clubs could share a file containing book review feeds for their members
  • A sales team could share a list of the competitor’s feeds
  • Bargain hunters could share a list with their favorite coupon feeds
  • System administrators could have a list of security feeds
  • Families could produce a list of their flickr photos, websites and local news
  • You could share with friends a list of your top 10 bloggers

Creating an OPML File

As I mentioned earlier, OPML files can be used for many types of outlines so you may see different structures than my RSS listing. All the files includes markup tags that vary based on content. In the screen snap below, my file shows the folder name, feed name and feed URL. This information appears for each feed in my OPML file.

Click-to-enlarge
Click to enlarge

Although I could’ve used an OPML editor to create this file, I used my RSS reader. Many feed readers such as Bloglines, FeedDemon, IE 7, Newsgator and Google Reader allow you to import and export OPML files.

RSS Reader

Where to find OPML

Bloglines

Select the Feeds tab and scroll down to Additional features. There should be a link for Export Subscriptions.

FeedDemon

Select File | Export Feeds

Google Reader

Select Settings | Import/Export

Internet Explorer 7

Click the Star + icon on the toolbar and select Import and Export

Newsgator

Select My Settings | Edit Locations | OPML

Once you’ve created an OPML file you can send it to others or post it online. People can download the file and import into their feed reader. All the readers above handle importing OPML files although some give new meaning to the expression of “force feed”. Google Reader sometimes omits tag (folder) names, but all the feeds import.

If you want to try importing a file, you can use the starter file from our RSS Guide at http://www.timeatlas.com/rss/StarterOPML.xml. Depending on your file associations, you may be prompted to save the file. Otherwise, it will display in your browser and you can use File | Save Page As…

The Other Benefits of OPML Files

Even if you don’t like to share, there are two other reasons why you want to create OPML files.

1. These can be backup files if something happens to your feed reader. The file retains your feed information so you don’t need to re-enter it.

2. If you ever want to try another reader, the OPML file is essential. All you need to do is to import the file into your new reader and you’re set to go.

Aren’t there scenarios where you think people could benefit from sharing some of your feeds?
Last Updated ( Tuesday, 09 January 2007 )
 
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