An "alert" is used to provide notification of a change to a user agent.

The main functions of an Alert service are to provide newsfeeds, announcements and updates.

It should be noted that although Alerts will often be sent to individuals, Alerts may also be processed by other software applications.

Is should also be noted that standards used for Alerts may also be used for content syndication.

Alerts may be implemented using a variety of standards:

• Using REST HTTP fashion.
• Using the RSS 1.0 specification.
• Using the RSS 2.0 specification.
• Using the ATOM specification.
• Using Chat (instant messaging) standards.
• Using email standards.
• Using mobile phone communication standards (e.g. SMS messaging).

(Originally created by Wilbert, but modified by Brian Kelly, 22 feb 2006)