Digital Content

It's official. 2006 is the year of digital online content.

In 2005 7% of all music sales were online. In the first 2 months of 2006, that number is already 17%! There is no more debate, the digital revolution is kicking into full swing.

What are the implications of this transformation? Here are a few of my thoughts...

Content distributors - EVERY distributor needs to have a digital strategy. The concerns over rights management and piracy need to be acknowledged, but without allowing them to paralyze forward progress. The industry needs to identify a common standard if they wish to move consumers to a format other than open MP3.

Consumers - have to deal with multiple incompatible formats. On the plus side, players are now available for the home, in the automobile, and on the go. Managing digital libraries and backing up licenses for purchased content are new concerns for music mavens.

Electronics Manufacturers - consumers want their content with them. More storage, high quality output for video and audio are in demand. Convergence of entertainment, voice, and data management is coming and in many cases is here.

This is an exciting year. Let the games begin!