Twitters API is based off of the RepresentationalStateTransfer (REST) architecture. This architecture is more of a philosophy than a strict, written out plan- it doesn't describe specific arrangement of resources. It is a collection of methods for addressing and accessing data that allows it to work with most Web syndication formats. Twitter is most compatible with Really Simple Syndication (RSS) and Atom Syndication Format (Atom). This means that the app gathers information form one source and distributes it to various locations; like how it collects data from you (your tweet) and distributes is to other locations (your followers' newsfeed).
These Web syndication formats only have a few lines of code, which can be embedded in the code of a website. Users can subscribe to receive updates in their "feed" and whenever the administrator updates the web page, the users are notified. Twitter uses this strategy so that you, the user, can receive updates whenever other users update their web page, or tweet. Something that makes Twitter unique it that "by allowing third-party developers partial access to its API, Twitter allows them to create programs that incorporate Twitter's services." Very cool!!
References:
http://computer.howstuffworks.com/internet/social-networking/networks/twitter2.htm
So cool! Twitter is such a fun way to connect with so many people. Does the tweet limit of 140 characters have anything to do with how it is distributed, or is that just an arbitrary number? Very cool article! (follow me on twitter @leaahhm)
ReplyDeleteSocial media has definitely been an interesting addition to society. However I think there has been so much harm due to it. Case and point, look at the recent NYT article about the drastic increase in teen girl suicide due to social media influences.
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