IBM announced last week the “ShortCuts” podcast series that provides, at no charge, technology tips on current trends and issues such as computer security, instant messaging etiquette and email management.

Podcasting has become quite popular lately as more and more websites use this form of distributing multimedia files. The advantage of using podcasts is that they can be downloaded automatically using software capable of reading RSS or Atom feeds.

IBM has seen the opportunity provided by the growing popularity of podcasts and it started “podcasting” content on its website. The four-minute audio programs available at this address, give listeners practical and professional advice that can be applied instantly at work and at home.

Each “ShortCuts” segment will start with a “Question of the Week” that is geared to listeners of all knowledge and skill levels. Questions will range from: “Is it proper etiquette to send a graphic smiley face or ‘wink’ to my boss?” to “How can I ‘unsend’ an email?”

Spearheading the “ShortCuts” series is a team of innovators at Lotus, an IBM brand known for delivering the market’s first spreadsheet and collaboration products. “These experts will help listeners navigate through the best use of new technology,” said Ben Edwards, Manager, IBM New Media Communications. “Using the latest podcast technology, subscribers will have the choice to request segments on-demand and to learn and interact with one of the world’s technology leaders about everyday user issues.”

According to Forrester, an IT industry analyst firm, podcasting is expected to grow in consumption to 12 million households by 2010. IBM is using podcasting as one of the new ways to share its technology expertise with consumers and users worldwide. A recent IBM industry podcast ranked among the top most popular downloads on iTunes when it ran in October.

IBM’s podcasting service, named “ShortCuts” can be accessed by downloading shows individually from this address or by subscribing to the “ShortCuts” podcast feed to automatically receive segments through a personal computer or a portable player such as an iPod.