Abstract This paper takes a look at the development of DVDs, comparable technologies, the current technology and the future of the technology. Disk types and sizes and discussed as well as the different uses for the medium.
From the Paper "In 1993, Nimbus demonstrated a Red Book audio disc at a show in Cannes, France. The disc was recorded with MPEG-1 audio at double density. This occurrence sent the technology sector into a race to create a universally supported, high capacity, CD like disc. In 1995 that disc format was finally released and became known as the Digital Video Disc ("A Brief History" 1)."
Abstract The paper explains how DVD emerged in the information age as an exciting entertainment medium of versatile functionality with high quality motion picture. However, DVD has taken on new meaning with "writable" capability. The paper shows that, today, users can record television shows or home movies on DVD and even play these DVDs on home DVD players or on DVD-ROM drives. The discs used are called DVD Recordable (DVD-R) and DVD Rewritable (DVD/RW).
The paper examines the variety of usages recordable and rewritable DVDs provide businesses and organizations, such as data storage and multimedia capabilities.
From the Paper "Due to its cost-efficiency, 100-year data life, constant data stream, and broad compatibility, DVD-R offers users a beneficial solution to long-term data storage and the creation of digital media discs that can be viewed both in the office and on the couch. DVD-R discs are now mainstream and produced by large manufacturers, including Pioneer, Mitsui, Maxell, Verbatim, Memorex, and TDK."
Abstract This paper begins with a brief introduction of the history and quality of videotapes and DVD and then provides an analysis of how and why DVD has replaced VHS, considered to be more standardized. This paper lists pros and cons of both, and this is followed by a comparison of the differences in quality and convenience of the two products.
From the Paper "The developments of DVD began in 1994, launching the format in 1996 as by that time new formats and revisions have come into view. It began in 1994 as two competing formats, Super Disc (SD) and Multimedia CD (MMCD). The replacement with VHS among many other reasons is an agreement by both camps on a single standard in order to meet the necessities of all the different industries involved."
Abstract This document discusses the format war between Sony Blu ray technology and the HD-DVD format championed by Toshiba. While comparisons are constantly made to the VHS versus Beta format war regarding video movie formats this battle is not even similar. The paper further discusses how, because of the bleed over into other media content areas such as games and software applications as well as movies, this format war will be decided by forward and reverse compatibility trends that have ruled the software and computing industry for years.
Abstract This paper discusses how new technologies are anticipated to revolutionize how we spend our work and leisure time. It reviews the diffusion and adoption of new personal electronic devices and, in particular, the marketing efforts and market penetration for DVDs and Palm Pilots. In addition, the use of DVDs and Personal Data Assistants are also examined. There is a brief analysis of early, middle, and late users.
From the Paper "DVD player market penetration has increased dramatically in the past few years, largely as a result of decreasing prices. However, the sales of DVD players are expected to decrease in the next few years as the cost of DVD recorders and Network and Internet-enabled DVD players is reduced. Sales of DVD Players in 2003 was close to 60 million, and is expected to be under 65 million for 2003, and decreasing to 35 million by 2008. In contrast, sales of DVD recorders was under three million in 2003, and is expected to come close to five million in 2003, but reach about 45 million in 2004 (Allied Business Intelligence)."
Tags:dvd, pda, personal, data, assistent, market, palm, pilot
Abstract This paper examines trends in the publishing industry caused by the effect of such factors as the birth of the PC and the globalization of the internet as well as economic factors. It looks at how small presses are being bought out by larger chains which can negotiate volume deals with publishers, while also offering customers discount on propriety books published under their own labels. It shows how internet booksellers, most notably the avaricious Amazon.com have made it so that book customers can find just about any title at below suggested retail. It also discusses how the advancement of technologies such as dvds, ebooks and online libraries are also cutting into the market affecting the need for printed material.
From the Paper "The independent bookstores (known in the industry as "indies') are in trouble, if not on the edge of extinction, being replaced in part by larger chain stores such as Barnes and Noble, and Borders who pull in customers with coffee shop atmospheres and non-book products. The chains can negotiate volume deals with publishers, while also offering customers discount on propriety books -- titles that are published under their own labels. Internet booksellers, most notably the avaricious Amazon.com have made it so that book customers can find just about any title at below suggested retail."
Abstract This paper summarizes an article about Disney's plan to issue limited-play DVDs. The paper then applies marketing strategy theory to explain this decision, including the rules of countering competition and substitute product. The paper also investigates how this decision reflects an attempt to develop and promote new uses for existing products.
From the Paper "As products move through the product life cycle, manufacturers face increased competition from direct competitors as well as from substitute products. Profit margins fall as competition increases and once-strong products...."
Abstract The discusses whether viewing films in a movie theatre is a better experience than seeing them at home. The paper contends that while generally agreeing with this thesis, there are circumstances where home viewing might be preferable.
From the Paper "The issue of whether viewers prefer to watch a first run film in a theatre or wait until it's released on DVD and watch it at home is very much on the minds of movie moguls today. The billion dollar question in Hollywood these days is what to do ..."
Abstract This paper examines factors that affect the adoption rates of new products and analyzes the adoption rates of XM Satellite Radio, MP3 players, CD players, DVRs and DVD audio as shown on a chart.
From the Paper "One of the primary determinants of cell phone banking adoption in South Africa has been trial ability. Researchers compared Internet adoption rates with cell phone banking rates and found that the cell phone banking participants indicated a lower ..."
Tags: diffusion, product, audio products, XM Satellite Radio, MP3 players, CD players, DVR, TiVo, DVD audio
Abstract The paper discusses Todd R. Wagner and his plans to revolutionize the movie distribution network as a means to cut down on piracy. The paper explains that Wagner intends to try releasing films simultaneously in theaters, on DVD, and on one of the two cable channels, effectively collapsing Hollywood's drawn-out release schedules. The paper concludes that while Wagner's idea may have merit, it has yet to be tested on a major Hollywood production.
From the Paper "Wagner has not really tried the simultaneous release plan as yet. He produced the movie Godsend in 2004 and released the film to theaters in April, then releasing the DVD in August. That is a short release date, though not so short that the studios have not done the same, but it is also far from a simultaneous release. He also produced the film The Jacket and released it in March 2005, with the DVD release in June."
Abstract This paper presents an analysis of the internal and external environments of a company named Zellwinger's, which currently manufactures VCRs. The paper presents the first steps towards implementation of a move from the mature technology of VCRs to new technology in the form of DVD players. It concludes with the importance of thorough planning in order for the change to be successful.
Table of Contents:
External Environment
Production
Human Resources
From the Paper "The greatest human resource challenge is fear of change. In any corporation, this needs to be dealt with first before any other functional plans can be implemented. It is during the second year of implementation that a general meeting occurs between management and the entire work force. Before this time, Human Resources are charged with determining if there are nay adjustment problems among personnel. Depending on the seriousness of problems at this stage, they are dealt with either by a HR representative, or by management. This should take no longer than one month."
Abstract The paper shows how the advice from Toshiba regarding its DVD recorder tends to be very general; the company notes the need to avoid power surges, but does not mention that a surge protector can itself add to the threat of damage in some cases. The paper contends that it would be more useful if the company would address the need for a surge protector, indicate which type and brand would be most effective, and explain how to match a protector to the electronics in the unit.
From the Paper "These warnings are found on a page headed "Important Safety Instructions," including avoiding water and heat and warning to unplug the apparatus during a lightning storm. In addition, the user is warned not to touch the unit or the connecting cables during a thunderstorm (Toshiba 3).
"One of the recommendations is to unplug the device when not using it for a long period of time, and this admonition is echoed by a government report that says to unplug any appliance of electronic device that does not need to stay on when leaving for a time, such as on vacation. One rason given is that these devices draw electricity even when not in use, making this an economic move, but safety and security are also noted and can "prevent damage in case of a storm or power surge" ("Give Your Appliances a Vacation Too" para. 5)."
Abstract The paper relates that NetFlix has attained market leadership in the online DVD subscription marketplace despite Blockbuster having the broadest market presence of any entertainment rental retailer globally. The paper compares the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats facing these companies and assesses the trends in the industry.
From the Paper "NetFlix is credited with creating the online DVD subscription service business model, when the company launched its online service in 1999. Blockbuster, the global leader in video rentals has approximately 9,000 stores operating in 24 countries, launched its own online DVD subscription service in 2004. During the five years NetFlix was the sole provider of online DVD rentals, the company attained a subscriber base of approximately 7 million, was able to attain profitability, and has significantly re-vamped its internal logistics and order management systems for high efficiency and low cost of operation."
Abstract The paper discusses how the distinctive lines which determine control and influence between technology and humanity are often smudged. Since the release of the desk top computer, society has been effected to a similar degree to which it has been served. The paper examines how computers used to be limited to large corporations, to run only the most complicated tasks. Today, they are used in almost every aspect of our life. The paper looks at the affect of the internet on our social habits, where a person is no longer at risk of being directly rejected if their ideas are outside of the social norms. In the event of a hostile response, the "Delete" key is never far away. The paper shows that this oxymoron can drive our culture toward increased isolation, or it can cause the recognition of our need to socialize, to build intimate personal interaction, and to share life with others. It questions whether technology can guide society toward shallow e-lives, or whether culture will insist that it remain the servant, constantly climbing out of intoxicating isolationism.
From the Paper "In her book, The Real World of Technology, Ursula M. Franklin argues that technology has a disruptive effect on humanity. Her assertion is that if left-unchecked technology will eventually destroy society as we know it. She continues and contends that for society's sake, people must question everything before accepting new technologies into their world. In the book, Franklin's argument urges people to come together and participate in public reviews and discuss or question technological practices that lead to a world that is designed for technology and not for society. Franklin, however, seems unable to realize that the influx of technology and society's greater dependence of it may just be another step of evolution. Just as humans grew out of the ape and the hammer out of the twig, so to may the children and their tools of tomorrow grow to become something greater than even we can imagine."
