Twitterfeed, a content distribution platform, just announced that it would be shutting its doors on Monday, October 31.
In the announcement, the site encouraged users to transition to other similar services and mentioned Buffer and dlvr.it specifically. I have experience using both platforms and recommend them highly.
For those unfamiliar, here's a rundown of the features and benefits of each:
Buffer
I use Buffer frequently as my "on the fly" application, particularly with Twitter. I added it as a Chrome extension, which integrates it into Twitter, giving me the option to "buffer" a post - schedule it for later posting, either at a set date and time or just adding it to the queue, allowing Buffer to make a choice.
Regarding posting options, Buffer offers distribution to a variety of destinations based on the user's account level: free or premium.
With the free account, the service limits users to Twitter, Facebook, and (newly added) Instagram.
Keep in mind that Instagram doesn't allow posting from third-party sources, so all Buffer can do is enable scheduling. then notify users when it's time to publish the post (a bit wonky but that's how Instagram wants it.)
The premium account ($10 per month) adds Google+, Pinterest, and LinkedIn, plus other features such as the ability to schedule more posts and manage everything via a social media calendar. You can also add text, links, videos, or photos.
There are also mobile apps for iOS and Android. A business version, which starts at $99 per month, is also available.
dlvr.it
Where Buffer is best suited for real-time extemporaneous social sharing, dlvr.it is more deliberate. I call it the "thinking person's" platform in that it's ideal for distribution in a more structured manner.
I find it to be the better platform for companies (or individuals) that produce a hefty amount of content, particularly blog posts.
dlvr.it takes the RSS feed from a blog or website and, well, delivers it automatically to destinations that include Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, Pinterest, and other social media sites. Any site - blog, social network, video, photo, RSS feed reader...you name it - that has an RSS feed associated with it can use dlvr.it for syndication.
But that's just where the fun begins: Users can also curate, categorize, and customize third-party content to deliver a constant flow of information. And, like Buffer, users can manage publication on a set schedule or let dlvr.it feed content at the most optimal times based on research and best practices.
dlvr.it's other features include:
- Constant scanning of RSS feeds - dlvr.it scans RSS feeds continuously looking for new information. When it finds it, the platform populates a queue of content to share across social media channels.
- Google Analytics UTM tracking - Users can set their own UTM tracking parameters on every link, to enable Google Analytics to see it.
- Use of rich media - Users can add images, gifs, and text to posts.
- Custom URL shortener - dlvr.it offers the ability for users to add branded short links across social media.
- Hashtags - Yes, users can add hashtags to posts.
- Engagement stats - dlvr.it includes social media engagement stats, giving users a visual snapshot of performance.
dlvr.it also offers both free and premium plans.
The free option enables content distribution to up to three social networks from up to five feeds and sites. For $9.99 per month, the premium plan lets users share to a combination of up to ten social networks from as many as 50 feeds and sites. There's also an agency plan for teams and larger companies.
Conclusion
Perhaps the service you choose depends on your approach to sharing content. If, say, you're a heavy Twitter user who likes to share a lot of tweets with your followers, then Buffer is well-suited to your needs. It's nimble and fast. If, however, you're a thoughtful content producer or curator, then give dlvr.it a try.
Heck, if you're like me, and prefer to combine the two approaches, use both in tandem: Buffer for quick sharing and dlvr.it for the bigger ticket items. At roughly $10 each per month, it won't break the bank. But test-drive the free versions first, to see which you fancy. You can't go wrong either way.