* When you decided to obtain a DVD for your science fiction assignment in Module 4, where did you go to find a movie based on a Philip K. Dick book? Did you rent or purchase a DVD, or did you view it digitally on your computer using Netflix or a similar vendor of video on demand?
I used Netflix streaming to watch my movie. About a month ago, I got rid of cable and started watching all my TV and movie content via Netflix and Hulu Plus. It has been an interesting adjustment but I am enjoying the cost benefits.
* Is the current competition between DVDs and video on demand an example of increasing returns or Red Queens? Justify your response with sound reasoning and specific examples.
I think that the competition between video on demand and DVDs is an example of increasing returns. I think this because of the recent articles about Netflix having to go through contract renewals with the big film industries. The same thing that happened with Panasonic could happen with Netflix if they do not negotiate a deal for content. I am enjoying my Hulu and Netflix accounts but there are still things that I want that they do not provide. DVDs have the market as far as content goes but now it is all about accessibility and that is a huge factor. I think DVDs will disappear and everything will be about VODs, this is why it is not a Red Queen, I really do not think that both industries will survive. The VOD industry offers rentals, on demand and permanent digital movies so the true test will be about who gets the most content licenses.
* Where do you think DVDs and video on demand are on the four criteria of McLuhan’s tetrad?
Enhances- instant sharing of media content
Obsoletes- TV Shows
Rekindle- Live performance
Reverses- all the content being available in one location
Kat,
ReplyDeleteFor the first two responses you mentioned your VOD use, to the point of dumping cable and strictly going with Hulu/Netflix. I have Comcast which offers both and also bundles my internet and home phone service with VOiP. I can see the home phone going away as most calls I receive are through my cell, although there can be times when cell service is questionable, but VOiP isn't any more secure. I can recall plenty of times when we would lose power the telephone was the one thing that kept working that wouldn't be the case with cell or VOiP.
So how limited are you on your selection with VOD and how do you get your internet to provide those services?
As for your Tetrad the only question is how do these eliminate TV shows? I definately wonder how commercials are going to invade the VOD, because they will. That's one thing about DVD that is better, no commercials to deal with.
Kat,
ReplyDeleteI think entertainment can't deny that a sole connection for one piece of information is getting to be obsolete.
If all information is run through internet style fiber optic, then basically all information can flow bi-directionally and extremely fast rates. No longer will you need to be plugged in to watch tv or movies.