The Format War Between HD-DVD and Blu Ray Was Preceded

question 50

Essay

The format war between HD-DVD and Blu Ray was preceded by a nearly identical competition between DVD and DIVX. While DVD technology was used by a variety of manufacturers (including Sony and RCA), DIVX was a proprietary format developed by Circuit City. Both formats could play DVD movies, which cost about $30 each. However, DIVX movies (which could be played only on a DIVX player and not on a DVD player) could be purchased for $5 and viewed for 24 hours, with the ability to renew (including perpetual viewing) for a reasonable charge and a telephone call. Circuit City believed that consumers beginning to buy video disk players and disks would prefer its format, since the disks were less expensive and offered the convenience similar to a rental with the option of a purchase (conveniently by telephone from home) at a later date. But the DIVX format never took off, and in mid-1999, Circuit City announced that it was being discontinued. This left DVD as the dominant format for videodisks. By late 2008 Circuit City stores were in bankruptcy and closed. Relate this example to the model of the innovation stream and corporate attempts to gain competitive advantage through technological innovation. Explain how this competition in formats between DVD and DIVX fits the model of the innovation stream.

Understand the definition and application of SMS technology in mobile communication.

Identify and describe the utility of document tracking features for collaborative work.

Comprehend the concept of asynchronous communication and provide examples.

Evaluate factors for including new technology in a communication plan.

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Definitions:

Ecology of Eating

The study of how the environment and ecological systems influence eating habits, food choices, and the overall relationship between humans and food.

Supersized Menu

A menu option in fast-food restaurants that offers larger portions of food items for a relatively small additional cost, often criticized for contributing to overeating and obesity.

Dessert Buffet

A meal or display that offers a variety of sweet dishes, such as cakes, pies, and pastries, for self-service.

Incentive

A thing that motivates or encourages someone to do something, often seen as a reward or punishment scheme in behavioral psychology.