Differences between documents, blog posts, and discussions

Documents, blog posts, questions, and discussions have different purposes and rewards. Here you find suggests ways to think about these content types.

Documents

Purpose
Collaborate with others on a single document; capture information that should be available for a while; create a report, agenda, or meeting notes. For more information, see Using documents.
Format
Most of the content is in the document itself; comments by readers and authors are appended.
Style
Somewhat formal, often in the third person.
Stream updates
Whenever the document is edited (and Minor Update is not selected), and whenever comments are added.

Blog posts

Purpose
Express a point of view; call something to the attention of other users; make a proposal to get feedback from others; ponder an idea. For more information, see Using blogs.
Format
Most of the content is usually in the initial post, with reader comments appended.
Style
Informal, usually in the first person.
Stream updates
Whenever comments are added. Edits to a blog don't trigger an update.

Discussions

Purpose
Make a short observation or assertion to get feedback; report a problem. For more information, see Using discussions and questions.
Format
Most of the content is in the form of replies to the initial assertion.
Style
Informal, usually in the first person.
Stream updates
Whenever replies are added, and whenever a reply is marked as Correct or Helpful.