I think I prefer a middleground. I like Sivers' short URLs but I'd go with a word rather than just letters. Letters seems like a step too far for my preferences, looks untidy.
In real reality I'd probably use both methods. Long SEO-delicious URL for the actual article, short redirect to it, best of both worlds. Use whichever is appropriate for the medium (preferring to link online to the non-redirect for less future hassle)
You can't win, haha
I think I prefer a middleground. I like Sivers' short URLs but I'd go with a word rather than just letters. Letters seems like a step too far for my preferences, looks untidy.
In real reality I'd probably use both methods. Long SEO-delicious URL for the actual article, short redirect to it, best of both worlds. Use whichever is appropriate for the medium (preferring to link online to the non-redirect for less future hassle)