http://corpsebridemovie.warnerbros.com/index2.html
http://imdb.com/title/tt0121164/
Technology used
The technology present on the website includes mp3 tracks and video clips.
Websites such as these are replacing traditional advertising methods through bill-boards and television trailers. By having these websites and placing the trailers online people can watch it, find out a bit about the story and the characters and who is in it. As a result it generates excitement and people can get a reasonable amount of answers as to what the film is about, who is in it, when it comes out. It offers the audience information that they can keep going back to. They also serve a purpose after the film has come out, because if it is a success and people like it they can then go and watch the ‘behind the scenes’ clip and find out when the DVD is coming out, as well as downloading free things or in this case listening to the soundtrack online.
The Media being used
This website includes a variety of types of media including related websites, video clips, downloadable backgrounds for your desktop, pictures from the film, mobile phone updates and mp3 soundtrack live streaming.
Related websites
Related websites include film rating websites such as http://www.filmratings.com/ and a link to the Warner Brothers Records website so that people can buy the soundtrack to the Corpse Bride. These websites provide the audience with information on where to buy their product and on where they can gain extra information such as film ratings that they may want.
Video clips
On the website are a few video clips, firstly a trailer for the film, this is so that prior to release people can watch the clip and get a feeling for the film as well as find out information on release date etc. The next clip present is ‘behind the scenes footage’ from making the film to provide the audience with information. It is to explain how they made the film, because it was a mixture of graphics and stop-motion production, so for those interested in how Tim Burton and his team managed to create the film there is a bit of extra information, which before the DVD was released with extra features would have been exclusive.
Downloadable desktop backgrounds
With the facility to download desktop backgrounds it provides the fans with something which they will enjoy, but which in turn will work as advertising to their friends who see it and are interested in what it is from.
Pictures from the film
These have the effect of showing the audience the sort of quality they can expect, but also installing intrigue within the audience as to what situation in the plot is being depicted by the picture. In turn this makes them watch the film to have their questions answered.
Mobile phone updates
These mobile phone updates not only give the audience pictures for their phone, again encouraging word of mouth advertising, but it gives them listing times at their local cinemas for the film. Providing the audience with immediate information as to where and when the film is on, meaning they are more likely to be reminded to go and don't have to find out when it is on. By taking away the work for the audience they are more likely to indulge and go to the film.
Mp3 soundtrack, live streaming
The soundtrack is streamed live on the website for the audience to listen to after they have watched the film. On the same page as the soundtrack is a link to purchasing the soundtrack CD, this is a chance for fans of the film to re-listen to the film and decide whether or not to purchase the soundtrack.
Audience
I think the main target audience is young children but other fans of the film will be equally interested in the website. People who are also curious about the film will use it to find out information on the film. The children will use it to find out about the film, the soundtrack and the cast.
The benefits of using the website are behind the scenes footage, the trailer, information on release dates and on where to purchase the DVD and CD. You can also access information on how the film was made, the cast, the crew and their other work so that you can watch their other work on the basis that if you enjoyed this one you will enjoy their other work.
Institutions
The only institution involved is Warner Brothers, the producer of the film. This allows them to not only promote this film, but the soundtrack and other films that they have produced in collaboration with the Director of this film.
Warner Brothers uses the video clips and mp3 live streaming of the soundtrack as well as downloadable backgrounds, the mobile updates etc all make the audience feel as though they are receiving something unique and exclusive. They gain extra information over people who have just gone to see the film and this puts them above their peers in terms of knowledge of the film, the way it is made etc. This gratification encourages audience loyalty to the film and the Director and to some extent to the production company, meaning that when the film and soundtrack come out they are more likely to purchase them as they feel they are buying something worth the money.
Key concepts
The key concepts which work on this website are interactivity, time-shift and portability.
Portability
Portability is present because the technology of sending cinema times and dates, as well as wallpapers, to a mobile phone allows the consumer to find out information whilst on the go.
Interactivity
Interactivity is present with the video clips, the mp3 files, the wallpapers and the mobile phone updates. These all allow the consumer to find out more about the film and interact with the website.
Time-shift
Time-shift occurs because the audience can listen to the soundtrack when they want and they can also what the trailer whenever they want. They don’t have to watch the film for the soundtrack or wait for the trailer to be aired on the TV to watch it. It provides them with more flexibility in enjoying the soundtrack or in finding out about the film.
Monday, April 21, 2008
9. New Phenomenon - Blu-ray DVD
Technology and the media being used
Blu-ray DVDs are relatively new on the market and their popularity is set to increase. It was developed by the Blu-ray Disc Association, which is a group of the world’s leading consumer electronics, PC and media manufacturers, which includes the likes of Dell, Apple, Panasonic, Philips, Samsung, Sony and LG. The Blu-ray format enables the recording, rewriting and playback of high-definition or HD video, again a new technology. Blu-ray offers more than five times the storage capacity of DVDs and can hold up to 25GB on a single-layer disc and up to 50GB on a dual-layer disc.
The name Blu-ray comes from the blue-violet laser, which replaces the tradition red laser used to read and write data. The blue-violet laser has a shorter wavelength than the red laser, allowing it to focus the laser spot with great precision, meaning more can be stored on the disc as it takes up less space.
Blu-ray is set to replace normal DVDs when the use of high definition kicks off in the media industry. Blu-ray provides a higher quality program, which in turn provides the audience with a better viewing experience.
Audience
The target audience of Blu-ray are people who are interested in films and technology, as well as quality of experience. I don't feel there is an age or gender limit of Blu-ray because it is the product/film which determines the audience, the technology is limitless in terms of that. But it is limited by the audience wanting to buy the latest thing and update their possibly already vast DVD collection to something more expensive, although with a better quality of experience.
The audience benefits from Blu-ray due to the higher definition and better quality of the experience they receive in comparison to regular DVDs. Blu-ray discs are mainly targeted at people who enjoy films because they are being offered a better quality of film and therefore more enjoyment from the experience because the sound and picture are clearer. Due to the capacity of Blu-ray discs any bonus features could be fitted onto the same disc as the DVD and series of programs from the television such as the Office, can be fitted onto less discs, taking up less space than tradition DVDs.
Institutions
The film institution are set to benefit majorly from the introduction of Blu-ray, with a better quality disc being released of classic films people are likely to purchase them all again to take advantage of the better quality and also to update their collection, just as people did from VHS to DVD. With a better quality being offered people are also more likely to purchase Blu-ray because the viewing experience is so much more enjoyable than before. Seven of the eight major movie studios (Disney, Fox, Warner, Paramount, Sony, Lionsgate and MGM) are releasing films in Blu-ray format and all except Paramount set to release their movies exclusively in Blu-ray format.
Key concepts
The key concepts of Blu-ray are quality because the quality of the product is greatly improved with this technology and miniaturisation because the discs can hold more data than DVDs.
8. Converged, portable digital technology - Blackberry Curve
http://www.blackberry.com/
Technology used and the Media being used
The technology present in the Blackberry Curve consists of wireless email/internet, instant messaging, text messaging, phone calls, video recording, a camera and a media player for music and videos. The phone also has the ability to navigate through website, stream mobile media including music and news clips. The Blackberry Curve also contains a calendar, address book, a GPS system and ‘Blackberry Maps’ which allows you to get maps and directions whilst on the road. There is also Bluetooth for hands free capabilities.
Audience
The main target audience are business people who need to check their emails regularly and make conference calls etc. The point of the Blackberry is to converge the technologies which allow them to check their emails, search the internet, call people, put them on hands free etc which provides the customer with one piece of equipment for all their needs. This increases customer loyalty to their brand because they can gain everything they want from one company.
A secondary audience of teenagers and adults who enjoy socialising occurs because of the availability of the technology and all that it is able to offer them. They can have everything in one place and don't need to purchase or carry the seperate software.
Institutions
There are many industries with an interest in the Blackberry including the film industry and the music industry. This is because it provides a platform for their product to be played on. The Blackberry helps companies and businesses in their work.
Key concepts
The key concepts of the Blackberry are immediacy, portability and convergence.
Immediacy
With many products being found in the Blackberry the consumer is provided with immediacy in being able to access their emails or search the web using a wireless connection. If they need to check their emails they don’t have to wait to get to the office or back home, they can immediately use the function on their phone, whilst still being on the phone to a customer or their boss.
Portability
The variety of functions available in one product mean that the consumer can travel anywhere and still reach their emails, call their friends, organise their diary and many more things. They don’t need to have a variety of products around them to achieve this, they can do it all on the move, resulting in a better experience for them as they only have to carry one item.
Convergence
The Blackberry Curve is the coming together of many different types of media. The consumer is given more products rolled into one, giving them instant access to their email, music, videos, phone calls, whatever it is that they need at that particular time. Convergence provides the consumer with a simpler way of consuming their desired media, resulting in an better experience.
Technology used and the Media being used
The technology present in the Blackberry Curve consists of wireless email/internet, instant messaging, text messaging, phone calls, video recording, a camera and a media player for music and videos. The phone also has the ability to navigate through website, stream mobile media including music and news clips. The Blackberry Curve also contains a calendar, address book, a GPS system and ‘Blackberry Maps’ which allows you to get maps and directions whilst on the road. There is also Bluetooth for hands free capabilities.
Audience
The main target audience are business people who need to check their emails regularly and make conference calls etc. The point of the Blackberry is to converge the technologies which allow them to check their emails, search the internet, call people, put them on hands free etc which provides the customer with one piece of equipment for all their needs. This increases customer loyalty to their brand because they can gain everything they want from one company.
A secondary audience of teenagers and adults who enjoy socialising occurs because of the availability of the technology and all that it is able to offer them. They can have everything in one place and don't need to purchase or carry the seperate software.
Institutions
There are many industries with an interest in the Blackberry including the film industry and the music industry. This is because it provides a platform for their product to be played on. The Blackberry helps companies and businesses in their work.
Key concepts
The key concepts of the Blackberry are immediacy, portability and convergence.
Immediacy
With many products being found in the Blackberry the consumer is provided with immediacy in being able to access their emails or search the web using a wireless connection. If they need to check their emails they don’t have to wait to get to the office or back home, they can immediately use the function on their phone, whilst still being on the phone to a customer or their boss.
Portability
The variety of functions available in one product mean that the consumer can travel anywhere and still reach their emails, call their friends, organise their diary and many more things. They don’t need to have a variety of products around them to achieve this, they can do it all on the move, resulting in a better experience for them as they only have to carry one item.
Convergence
The Blackberry Curve is the coming together of many different types of media. The consumer is given more products rolled into one, giving them instant access to their email, music, videos, phone calls, whatever it is that they need at that particular time. Convergence provides the consumer with a simpler way of consuming their desired media, resulting in an better experience.
7. Leisure time activity - deviantART
http://www.deviantart.com/
I think the main target audience is art students or amateur artists who want some feedback on their work, although there are many other people who use the website such as people who enjoy art and use it as a source to buy from the artists even if they have no practical interest in making art. I would say that the target audience of deviantART is probably teenager upwards because I don't overly feel that there is much for children to enjoy on the website, unless they express an extreme interest in art.There is a bit of a limitation to artists whose work is not able to be put onto the computer (such as murial artists, sculptures etc) however for those whose art is compatible with the computer there is no end to the variety and genres of art which are available.
They use the site to help each other, to sell their work and to gain feedback from their peers. This is a very quick and easy way to get your work seen by people, the internet has a large reach, making this a much easier way into the industry than through art galleries.
Key concepts
The key concepts of this website are proliferation, democratisation, diversification, horizontal networking and reach.
Technology used
The technology used by the deviantART website is quite varied. Firstly, there is the capacity for online purchasing of the images in print form. Individuals load these images, often these are amateurs who enjoy photography, graphic manipulation, digital editing and digitally painting pictures, and they can sell their work via the website with commission from the sales going to deviantART. The website uses digital printing technologies to print the work at a high quality.
The Media being used
DeviantART uses a variety of media types including online shopping, message forums and image hosting.
Online shopping along with the large quantity of prints allows the consumer to sit at home, at ease, and browse until they find something they like. They can then purchase it when and, as they want it in a variety of different sizes, qualities and frames. It is delivered to their door and they have to exert very little energy, even if they don’t manage to find something they haven’t wasted a day out looking for the perfect picture. It is the ease of purchasing the photos that I feel is the success. The ordering form is clear and easy, proving it easy for the consumer to get exactly what they want.
Message forums
The message forums are very clear and divided into sections, which are easy to navigate. The use of instant messaging across the site as well as the facility to leave comments on work and artists pages produces a community feeling about the website.
Image hosting
The image hosting is very simple. The method to upload your photos and the way to start an account are extremely easy, all of which encourage users to join, it takes very little time and there are multiple benefits to choosing deviantART over other image hosting websites such as the feedback from the community and the option to sell your work.
I think the main target audience is art students or amateur artists who want some feedback on their work, although there are many other people who use the website such as people who enjoy art and use it as a source to buy from the artists even if they have no practical interest in making art. I would say that the target audience of deviantART is probably teenager upwards because I don't overly feel that there is much for children to enjoy on the website, unless they express an extreme interest in art.There is a bit of a limitation to artists whose work is not able to be put onto the computer (such as murial artists, sculptures etc) however for those whose art is compatible with the computer there is no end to the variety and genres of art which are available.
They use the site to help each other, to sell their work and to gain feedback from their peers. This is a very quick and easy way to get your work seen by people, the internet has a large reach, making this a much easier way into the industry than through art galleries.
Institutions
The only institution involved here is deviantART they are mainly producing the physical prints and distributing the work. In a way, the pieces of art are being promoted on the website, but it is not active advertising, it is more of an exhibition of the work for sale.
Key concepts
The key concepts of this website are proliferation, democratisation, diversification, horizontal networking and reach.
Proliferation
Online there is a large source of work available to the consumer. They can search by genre, according to their taste and, with such a large archive are bound to find something that appeals to them.
With the introduction of the digital camera and the widespread use of the internet, deviantART provides everybody with a platform to host their work and receive feedback upon it. Anybody can have a go and get their work into the public eye, replacing the method of having to go through either a gallery or another means to get your work placed for public viewing.
The use of graphics tablets and other digital manipulation and digital paint equipment has meant that the type of photographic art available is of a much larger diversity than before. Previously photos couldn’t be edited or manipulated, and now with the introduction of such technology the world of art has seen the creation of major new genres such as Anime.
Horizontal Networking
The image hosting aspect of deviantART along with the community provides an opportunity for the media to be shared peer to peer, without a need for financial gain. It is free to join and add pictures, providing a place for peers to see other peoples work and gain advice on techniques for their own work.
Reach
The internet itself offers a much larger reach for everybody that has added picture to deviantART providing the possibility for millions of people to look at their work. Previously this scale of consumption would have been very rare.
6. Fan Website - Hugh Laurie
http://www.hughlaurie.net/
Technology used
The technology present on this website consists of mainly video clips.
The Media being used
The media content present on the website consists mainly of video clips.
Video Clips
Video clips are used to show examples of Hugh Laurie’s work and to direct audiences to interviews and other programmes he has been in which they may not be aware of. Video clips are a way of engaging the audience and trying to provide them with something entertaining and new to them.
Audiences
The website appeals to any age and gender because this sites content isn’t limited by age or gender, it is limited by your interest, namely in Hugh Laurie and his career.
The website is mainly for fans to talk to other fans and discuss his work and him. Fans use the website to catch up on what he has been in e.g. programmes and interviews, as well as to meet like minded people to discuss their interests.
Institutions
There are no institutions involved primarily. The website is run by fans, for fans, so no institutions are involved.
Key Concepts
The key concepts which apply to this website are interactivity, non-linear, horizontal networking and narrowcasting.
Interactivity and Non-linear
The audience can interact with the website by choosing video clips and interviews to watch. This allows the audience to consume pieces of Hugh Laurie’s career how they want, from snippets of interviews, to the programmes he has been in. They no longer have to watch the interviews when they are being aired instead they can access them when they want.
Peers share information about Hugh Laurie with each other via the website. This includes video clips and photos as well as the latest information on his career and appearances.
Narrowcasting
The website is for a niche audience, namely people who are fans of Hugh Laurie and/or his work. By targeting an audience in this way you ensure loyal fans, although the number of fans may not be so large due to the niche aspect of the media.
5. Podcast - The Archers
http://www.bbc.co.uk/radio4/archers/
The Archers is broadcast on BBC Radio 4 at 7.02pm Sunday to Friday, repeated at 2.02pm the next day (excluding Saturdays) with the omnibus edition of the whole week's episodes every Sunday at 10am.
The main target audience is people who regularly listen to a particular radio show, in this case the Archers, a story about rural life in the UK. The people who would listen to The Archers are people who enjoy dramas, particularly those which are different from the mainstream ones in some way - The Archers is set about a family and their local community in an English countryside village. People who listen to The Archers are either people interested in rural life, people who live in a village and like the similarities/differences to their lives, or people who just enjoy the gossiping side of the drama.
The benefits of using the podcasts for the audience is the flexibility it offers their consumption of the media. Previously they would have had to tune in at a set time, and if they missed an episode for some reason there wouldn’t have been an opportunity to catch up. With the website and the podcast however they can subscribe to download it to their computer, meaning they do not have to remember to listen to each show, it is automatically downloaded. This gives them greater flexibility in their consumption.
Audience's used to have to sit by the radio and listen to the program everyday at the appointed time, or listen to the omnibus on Sunday, but now they have more freedom in what time they listen as well as the technology that they listen to it with. The Archers is available on the TV via Radio 4's channel, on the internet via online streaming, in a podcast and is now internationally available in places such as Continental Europe and in areas with British Forces Broadcasting stations as well such as Germany and Cyprus.
Institutions
The BBC is behind the Archer’s podcast, which is hosted on their website.
They use the podcasts as a way of encouraging more regular listeners. If the audience don’t have to tune in to each airing of the programming, but can instead download it directly to their computer they are more likely to listen to it on a regular basis, resulting in higher ratings for the BBC as well as a better service for the audience.
The use of podcasts allows the BBC to distribute their programme more effectively to a wider number of listeners who possibly couldn’t listen before due to the time.
Key concepts
The key concepts which have made podcasts so successful are non-linear, immediacy, portability, miniaturisation and time-shift.
Non-linear
The non-linear aspects of the podcast lie in the fact that you can consume it wherever and whenever you want. You no longer have to work around scheduling times, but instead can listen to it anywhere, even places where previously a radio programme couldn’t be listened to due to a lack of signal, such as the tube.
Immediacy
With the ability to subscribe to the podcast the audience has an immediate update when the new one is released. Meaning they don’t have to keep checking back on the website to see if a new one has been released. Again this just stops the audience having to fit their life around the programme.
Portability
The ability to put the podcast onto a mp3 player means that you can travel with your podcast, you no longer have to sit by the radio to listen to the programme. This again provides the audience with more freedom.
Miniaturisation
The creation of mp3 players means that it is possible to take podcasts anywhere with you.
Time-shift
The audience now have portability with the media and do not have time constraints because there is the flexibility of being able to listen to the podcast whenever they want, not just at the scheduled time.
The Archers is broadcast on BBC Radio 4 at 7.02pm Sunday to Friday, repeated at 2.02pm the next day (excluding Saturdays) with the omnibus edition of the whole week's episodes every Sunday at 10am.
Technology used
The technology being used is a podcast. A podcast is a series of digital-media files, which can be downloaded and played back on either computers or mp3 players. You can either directly download from a website or online stream the podcast. You can subscribe to podcasts and have the newest edition automatically downloaded to your computer.
The Media being used
Podcasts work by using RSS feeds, direct file downloads and mp3 files.
Podcasts are being used by the audience to download their favourite radio programmes, comedy hours amongst other things. They are replacing radio listening because the audience can now listen to the programme whenever they want, wherever they want, rather than having to tune in to the radio and have reception. It provides them with more flexibility.
The main target audience is people who regularly listen to a particular radio show, in this case the Archers, a story about rural life in the UK. The people who would listen to The Archers are people who enjoy dramas, particularly those which are different from the mainstream ones in some way - The Archers is set about a family and their local community in an English countryside village. People who listen to The Archers are either people interested in rural life, people who live in a village and like the similarities/differences to their lives, or people who just enjoy the gossiping side of the drama.
The benefits of using the podcasts for the audience is the flexibility it offers their consumption of the media. Previously they would have had to tune in at a set time, and if they missed an episode for some reason there wouldn’t have been an opportunity to catch up. With the website and the podcast however they can subscribe to download it to their computer, meaning they do not have to remember to listen to each show, it is automatically downloaded. This gives them greater flexibility in their consumption.
Audience's used to have to sit by the radio and listen to the program everyday at the appointed time, or listen to the omnibus on Sunday, but now they have more freedom in what time they listen as well as the technology that they listen to it with. The Archers is available on the TV via Radio 4's channel, on the internet via online streaming, in a podcast and is now internationally available in places such as Continental Europe and in areas with British Forces Broadcasting stations as well such as Germany and Cyprus.
Institutions
The BBC is behind the Archer’s podcast, which is hosted on their website.
They use the podcasts as a way of encouraging more regular listeners. If the audience don’t have to tune in to each airing of the programming, but can instead download it directly to their computer they are more likely to listen to it on a regular basis, resulting in higher ratings for the BBC as well as a better service for the audience.
The use of podcasts allows the BBC to distribute their programme more effectively to a wider number of listeners who possibly couldn’t listen before due to the time.
Key concepts
The key concepts which have made podcasts so successful are non-linear, immediacy, portability, miniaturisation and time-shift.
Non-linear
The non-linear aspects of the podcast lie in the fact that you can consume it wherever and whenever you want. You no longer have to work around scheduling times, but instead can listen to it anywhere, even places where previously a radio programme couldn’t be listened to due to a lack of signal, such as the tube.
Immediacy
With the ability to subscribe to the podcast the audience has an immediate update when the new one is released. Meaning they don’t have to keep checking back on the website to see if a new one has been released. Again this just stops the audience having to fit their life around the programme.
Portability
The ability to put the podcast onto a mp3 player means that you can travel with your podcast, you no longer have to sit by the radio to listen to the programme. This again provides the audience with more freedom.
Miniaturisation
The creation of mp3 players means that it is possible to take podcasts anywhere with you.
Time-shift
The audience now have portability with the media and do not have time constraints because there is the flexibility of being able to listen to the podcast whenever they want, not just at the scheduled time.
4. Youtube video - Potter Puppet Pals - The Mysterious Ticking Noise
Potter Pals - The Mysterious Ticking Noise
Technology used
The technology involved in youtube is very varied because each video being hosted on the site is individual, so the technologies involved in making each video change. However, for Potter Puppet Pals the process to get their video hosted on youtube involved creating and editing it and uploading it onto their youtube account.
Youtube is replacing regular television viewing, instead providing a database of amateur (as well as professional programs which have been uploaded) videos which can be viewed at anytime by anyone. Related programs are also shown so that people can watch videos, which are similar to those that they enjoy. Youtube offers more freedom in consumption of videos and the videos tend to be more unique and entertaining than normal TV, partly because there are no governing bodies, which control what can and cannot be uploaded.
The Media being used
Youtube includes many types of media although they are mostly video clips due to the sites nature. You can favourite videos, rate them, comment on them, post responses and download the videos amongst other things.
This particular episode of Potter Puppet Pals has had over 41,177,200 views since March 23, 2007, showing that youtube has an incredibly large reach.
Audience
There is no main target audience to Youtube or the video. The success of Youtube comes in the fact that anybody can upload anything and there are going to be people who will enjoy it and find it funny if it is intended to be so. There is no real plot, or jokes, the comedy is mainly found in the physical actions and limited audio track and so may be limited to people with that time of humour.
The benefit to the audience is that there is freedom in what they consume, they don’t have any restraints in terms of linear scheduling and by searching Youtube they can find sequences which appeal specifically to them.
Institutions
There are a large amount of institutions involved with Youtube because as it is so popular there are vast possibilities in terms of advertising. So much so that Google bought Youtube for $1.65 billion in 2006 and other institutions have seen the possibilities of Youtube for free advertising and companies have uploaded programs and funny adverts in the style of videos of their own to the site.
The audience gains from the attention that the institutions have given Youtube because it provides funding for improvements and general maintenance of Youtube, meaning that the service remains free.
Key concepts
The key concepts of Youtube are proliferation because the audience has a huge amount of choice as to what they watch, interactivity because the consumers can reply with responses to videos and rank videos, non-linear because the audience can watch any video they want, whenever they want because there are no restrictions. Democratisation plays a huge part in the success of Youtube; anybody can upload anything they want, providing an opportunity for people to demonstrate their talents in a community, which will offer feedback to the creator. The fact that Youtube is also free, again allows the democratisation because it doesn’t cost people to show their work. Diversification is a result of the large amount of videos uploaded, with such a large choice of videos it is inevitable that everybody is catered for in some way or another. Other key concepts include narrowcasting due the niche aspects of most videos and reach due to the large amount of videos and the accessibility of the site.
3. Innovative Blog - Lily Allen
http://www.lilyallenmusic.com/
Technology used
The technology used in Lily Allen’s blog includes mp3 live streaming, full length videos, online shopping, downloads of Lily’s songs and videos and the ability to personalise Lily’s blog by changing the colours etc.
Lily’s blog is way for her to not only publicise her work, i.e. up coming album or single releases, but also a way to interact with her fans and offer them an insight into the life she leads and allow them to feel closer to her. In turn, this encourages loyalty to her music and herself as a brand.
The Media being used
This website includes a variety of types of media including mp3 live soundtrack streaming, related websites such as her Label on myspace, online shopping, full length videos, message boards, Lily’s blog, pictures from Lily’s day to day life, competitions, RSS links for immediate updates, exclusive album content and mobile phone updates.
Audience
I think the main target audience are her fans, although there is a no real age limit I believe it would probably be her younger fans who would read her blog, especially those who are interested in the celebrity lifestyle and music industry.
Institutions
The institutions involved are Lily Allen’s label, Regal. The website allows them to promote their artist, Lily, as well as her music and merchandise. The use that Lily’s blog has is that it encourages consumers to come to her website to find out about what she has been doing, and in turn they may well choose to listen to some music, and purchase music or merchandise. The interactivity of the website encourages consumers to spend longer on it and gain a higher interest in Lily so that they may go to see her tour etc.
The audience gains from the blog as they can read about the lifestyle most will aspire to as well as get information on an artist they enjoy.
Key concepts
The key concepts of the website are interactivity and non-linear in that the audience can consume the website in any order they wish. Vertical integration is present meaning that the audience have an increased experience through the variety of media and content available and resulting in a higher loyalty to Lily Allen as a brand and for the record label Lily’s fans may check out other artists on the label to see if they like them too.
2. Radio Station Website - Capital FM - The Breakfast Show with Johnny and Denise
http://www.capitalradio.co.uk/Sectional.asp?id=7328
Technology used
The technology present on this website consists mainly of mp3 files as it is a radio show, but with some video clips. The website contains interviews and podcasts of the shows, meaning that it is replacing listening to the actual show because its material can be accessed at any time, rather than just between the times it is aired. This increases the number of listeners because some people tune in throughout the day to listen to the interviews, rather than wanting to listen to the whole show. The website also contains a playlist full of music being played on the station as well as a link to listen to the live radio show.
The Media being used
The media content present on the website includes mp3 files, podcasts and video clips.
Mp3 files
The mp3 files of interviews and sections of the show allow the listener to either re-listen to an interview, such as the one with David Tenant, or if they missed it, it allows them to access the material without having to listen during the time the show is aired. This allows Capital to encourage listeners to tune in earlier or continue listening for longer in order to catch the good interviews. It also allows Capital to advertise the high standard of celebrity that they interview, possibly encouraging listeners to tune in for the interviews.
Podcasts
The podcasts provide the opportunity for listeners to download the breakfast show’s ‘best bits’ from the week, with a date for easy manoeuvring through the podcasts and a small summary to allow browsers to see what is going to be in the podcast it provides the listeners with the opportunity to take the show with them wherever they go. It also encourages long term loyalty to Capital as a brand and Johnny and Denise’s breakfast show because people can re-listen to the jokes and the funny events.
A RSS feed is also available for podcast software so that whenever a new podcast becomes available it automatically downloads, keeping the listener up to date on the week’s show.
Video Clips
Video clips are used to break up the audio and provide something visual for the audience. It allows you to see interaction between the interviewer and the interviewee, such as the interview between host Lucio and pop star Robyn. It also allows the audience to see inside the studio and get a glimpse of how things work into the studio. Video clips act as something unique for the viewers of the website as, due to the nature of radio, the interviews aren’t seen by those listening, so it gives the viewer an exclusive look into the way the breakfast show runs.
Audiences
The website appeals to any age of listener and gender because there is something for everyone, although young children may be excluded as it isn’t very visually stimulating. I feel that the audience isn’t targeted by age or gender demographics but rather by their tastes in humour and music. Capital mainly play Pop music and Indie music, so anybody who didn't enjoy those genres of music probably wouldn't find much to appeal to them as it is based very much on that. Johnny and Denise also have a very particular style of humour, making jokes with undertones and insinuated meanings, so you would have to appreciate their style of humour to really enjoy the show.
The website is mainly to promote the station and the shows, as well as the characters of the presenters with a ‘meet the gang’ section. The audience are using the website to catch up on any interviews or parts of the show they missed and also to re-listen to their favourite parts and interviews. They may no longer be tuning into the radio station every morning, but rather downloading the podcast to catch the funny bits and listening onto to the interviews. It benefits the audience by offering a second chance to listen to interviews, a podcast of the ‘best bits’ that they can store on their iPod and listen to on the go, as well as exclusive video clips of interviews which aren’t seen by those who don’t access the website.
Institutions
The institutions involved include the Capital radio station, but to some extent the film and music institutions are include too. Capital is using the website to advertise its show and encourage loyalty within listeners, however the music industry benefits from having it’s artists music stored on the playlist and everyone being interviewed is being kept in the public eye, in effect it is free promotion of singles and new movies coming out.
It brings Capital new listeners because people may be looking up their favourite show on the station, such as Lucio’s show and stumble across the breakfast show. They can read about the show, listen to the podcasts and interviews and there is information on scheduling time, allowing listeners to broaden their taste and consumption for themselves.
By having things such as the playlist online, people can listen to music online and chose what songs they want to listen to and new music for free. This again allows them to broaden their tastes and offers them a free service.
Key Concepts
The key concepts which apply to this website are interactivity, non-linear, portability and time-shift.
Interactivity and Non-linear
The audience can interact with the website by choosing podcasts to download, live streaming of the show, video clips and mp3 files of interviews. All of this allows the audience to choose how to consume the content of the show. The audience no longer has to listen to the show when it is on, they can pick out their favourite sections such as the interviews, and ignore sections they don’t like. The audience can also listen to sections of the show at any time of the day, not just when it is aired, this allows the audience to work the show around their schedule and desires, rather than the other way around.
Portability
With the introduction of podcasts the audience can now consume the media wherever they want. The best bits can be downloaded and taken on the tube, something never possible before due to lack of radio reception. They can also be taken abroad and on aeroplanes, which wouldn’t have been possible, also due to the reach of the radio station.
Time-shift
The audience no longer have to listen in a linear fashion to a show to listen to an interview. The audience also now have the possibility to listen to an interview, even if they don’t like listening to the actual show due to the time of day or the host. It provides the audience with a more flexible consumption of the media, meaning that they no longer have to tune in at the exact time; they can fit it around their lifestyle. Another factor for the audience is that they can re-listen to shows again and again, rather than missing something or only listening once. The audience now has more options concerning its consumption of the media.
Technology used
The technology present on this website consists mainly of mp3 files as it is a radio show, but with some video clips. The website contains interviews and podcasts of the shows, meaning that it is replacing listening to the actual show because its material can be accessed at any time, rather than just between the times it is aired. This increases the number of listeners because some people tune in throughout the day to listen to the interviews, rather than wanting to listen to the whole show. The website also contains a playlist full of music being played on the station as well as a link to listen to the live radio show.
The Media being used
The media content present on the website includes mp3 files, podcasts and video clips.
Mp3 files
The mp3 files of interviews and sections of the show allow the listener to either re-listen to an interview, such as the one with David Tenant, or if they missed it, it allows them to access the material without having to listen during the time the show is aired. This allows Capital to encourage listeners to tune in earlier or continue listening for longer in order to catch the good interviews. It also allows Capital to advertise the high standard of celebrity that they interview, possibly encouraging listeners to tune in for the interviews.
Podcasts
The podcasts provide the opportunity for listeners to download the breakfast show’s ‘best bits’ from the week, with a date for easy manoeuvring through the podcasts and a small summary to allow browsers to see what is going to be in the podcast it provides the listeners with the opportunity to take the show with them wherever they go. It also encourages long term loyalty to Capital as a brand and Johnny and Denise’s breakfast show because people can re-listen to the jokes and the funny events.
A RSS feed is also available for podcast software so that whenever a new podcast becomes available it automatically downloads, keeping the listener up to date on the week’s show.
Video Clips
Video clips are used to break up the audio and provide something visual for the audience. It allows you to see interaction between the interviewer and the interviewee, such as the interview between host Lucio and pop star Robyn. It also allows the audience to see inside the studio and get a glimpse of how things work into the studio. Video clips act as something unique for the viewers of the website as, due to the nature of radio, the interviews aren’t seen by those listening, so it gives the viewer an exclusive look into the way the breakfast show runs.
Audiences
The website appeals to any age of listener and gender because there is something for everyone, although young children may be excluded as it isn’t very visually stimulating. I feel that the audience isn’t targeted by age or gender demographics but rather by their tastes in humour and music. Capital mainly play Pop music and Indie music, so anybody who didn't enjoy those genres of music probably wouldn't find much to appeal to them as it is based very much on that. Johnny and Denise also have a very particular style of humour, making jokes with undertones and insinuated meanings, so you would have to appreciate their style of humour to really enjoy the show.
The website is mainly to promote the station and the shows, as well as the characters of the presenters with a ‘meet the gang’ section. The audience are using the website to catch up on any interviews or parts of the show they missed and also to re-listen to their favourite parts and interviews. They may no longer be tuning into the radio station every morning, but rather downloading the podcast to catch the funny bits and listening onto to the interviews. It benefits the audience by offering a second chance to listen to interviews, a podcast of the ‘best bits’ that they can store on their iPod and listen to on the go, as well as exclusive video clips of interviews which aren’t seen by those who don’t access the website.
Institutions
The institutions involved include the Capital radio station, but to some extent the film and music institutions are include too. Capital is using the website to advertise its show and encourage loyalty within listeners, however the music industry benefits from having it’s artists music stored on the playlist and everyone being interviewed is being kept in the public eye, in effect it is free promotion of singles and new movies coming out.
It brings Capital new listeners because people may be looking up their favourite show on the station, such as Lucio’s show and stumble across the breakfast show. They can read about the show, listen to the podcasts and interviews and there is information on scheduling time, allowing listeners to broaden their taste and consumption for themselves.
By having things such as the playlist online, people can listen to music online and chose what songs they want to listen to and new music for free. This again allows them to broaden their tastes and offers them a free service.
Key Concepts
The key concepts which apply to this website are interactivity, non-linear, portability and time-shift.
Interactivity and Non-linear
The audience can interact with the website by choosing podcasts to download, live streaming of the show, video clips and mp3 files of interviews. All of this allows the audience to choose how to consume the content of the show. The audience no longer has to listen to the show when it is on, they can pick out their favourite sections such as the interviews, and ignore sections they don’t like. The audience can also listen to sections of the show at any time of the day, not just when it is aired, this allows the audience to work the show around their schedule and desires, rather than the other way around.
Portability
With the introduction of podcasts the audience can now consume the media wherever they want. The best bits can be downloaded and taken on the tube, something never possible before due to lack of radio reception. They can also be taken abroad and on aeroplanes, which wouldn’t have been possible, also due to the reach of the radio station.
Time-shift
The audience no longer have to listen in a linear fashion to a show to listen to an interview. The audience also now have the possibility to listen to an interview, even if they don’t like listening to the actual show due to the time of day or the host. It provides the audience with a more flexible consumption of the media, meaning that they no longer have to tune in at the exact time; they can fit it around their lifestyle. Another factor for the audience is that they can re-listen to shows again and again, rather than missing something or only listening once. The audience now has more options concerning its consumption of the media.
Sunday, April 20, 2008
1b. The Apprentice
http://www.bbc.co.uk/apprentice/
Technology used
The technology involved includes the internet and live streaming of video clips and the latest programme.
The Media being used
The website includes a variety of types of media including related websites, video clips and a blog
Related websites
Related websites include http://www.bbc.co.uk/dragonsden/ which is a programme which may appeal to people who enjoy watching the Apprentice.
There are many links to video clips on the front page, including catch-ups, live streaming on the BBCi player and a video link on the lefthand toolbar. The videos are to be informative and give the viewers something more than those who just watch the TV programme. It gives them additional clips and exclusives which help to draw in current viewers whilst the clips also help to give prospective viewers a taste of the show. The clips also provide a summary on what has happened so far in the series for those who are late joiners.
Blog
A former contestant, Tre, writes the blog on the website. This has the effect of appealing to the audience by giving them the point of view of someone who has been in the current contestant’s position.
Audience
I think the main target audience are young career minded people or middle-aged people who wish to aspire to a better job. I think that they use the website as a way of finding out more about the people who are going into business and possible ways for them to get into it.
Institutions
The only institution involved is BBC which the programme is show on. It does this to promote its own programmes and encourage viewer loyalty.
Key concepts
Key concepts which are work on this website are interactivity and fragmentation.
This works, as there are contestants on the show and people will like certain contestants and hate others. Once on the website they can look up profiles of their favourite contestants and through the news bulletins and video clips see how they did in that weeks or the previous weeks challenge. It divides the audience into which contestants they like.
Interactivity
Interactivity comes in the form of being able to watch clips, read the latest news on the programme and the blogs.
1. Mainstream Broadcaster Website - BBC
a) BBC Lifestyle
http://www.bbc.co.uk/lifestyle/
http://www.bbc.co.uk/lifestyle/
Technology used
The BBC lifestyle website uses a variety of technology including interactive videos, interactive guides, pictures, roll over navigation bars and programmes which allow you to design things.
The website is a database for people on everything to do with home and lifestyle. It is replacing recipe books in that you can search a database for recipes, watch videos that explain recipes and are interactive and numerous other things. It is also acting as a replacement for programmes, which would provide the audience with information on subjects such as gardening, cooking, parenting, healthcare and much more. It is significant as it acts as a 24 hour, easily accessible database through which people can find out information about these subjects. In a time where people have a larger disposable income to spend on leisure pursuits, the idea of living a lifestyle is more relevant.
The Media being used
There are a variety of media texts used on the website, these include video clips and full-length programmes, message boards, WAP updates to your phone, newsletters, blogs and much more.
The site itself is easy to navigate with each subsection (gardening, food, health, parenting and consumer) being colour co-ordinated so that the reader knows at all times what section they are looking it. The navigation bar along the top of the website and then a smaller, more detailed one running down the right hand side again makes it easy to navigate for those who may not be technologically minded.
Blogs
http://www.bbc.co.uk/gardening/today_in_your_garden/weblogs_index.shtml
Only the gardening section of the website has a blog, in fact it has a few blogs, each run by different gardeners who want different things from their gardens and have different types of gardens. The blog is useful for consumers/readers who are interested in gardening as it contains a variety of tips and useful solutions to problems within the garden. The blog is a way of encouraging interactivity as the reader can leave comments on each post. The variety in the content of the blogs and number of bloggers means that a wide audience is catered for within the niche of the gardening community, it also appeals to both avid gardeners and casual gardeners who only read it if they have something specific they want information on.
Video clips and full-length programmes
In order to make the content more exciting and interactive for the reader there are many video clips, which are there to explain cooking techniques as a visual aid and to stop the website from just containing text, which could become boring for the reader, meaning they may not come back to it.
Message Boards
The message boards are a way for readers to post any questions or comments they have on certain comments and other readers offer solutions or comments. This way of getting audiences to interact with each other increases the loyalty of the reader as they create an online community with those who share similar or the same interests. This in turn encourages loyalty to the BBC who provide the setup for the community.
Audiences
The success of the lifestyle website lies in that it doesn’t have one single target audience. Wide varieties of people, with a wide variety of interests, are among the targeted through the same website. The target audience isn’t dependent on age (except perhaps the parenting section), but rather on lifestyle choices and interests. This results in a variety of content which is accessible for all sorts of ages, from those who love technology with the downloadable videos and design functions, to whose who aren’t so much in the form of articles and the database function.
The website offers a lot to the audience in terms of tips, advice and a forum to put forward questions. There is a wide variety in the content so that there is sure to be something for everyone and for everything they are interested in. They are using it because of convergence, with everyone being in one place. They can watch videos, read about recipes, plants and bringing up a family. They don’t have to go to separate medias to gain information about different aspects of their interests such as how to sharpen knives and recipes. Previously they would have had to go and find it in books or on a particular TV programme only scheduled at certain times. Now, through this modernisation they can consume it around to their lifestyle’s necessities.
Institutions
The only institution involved is the BBC as they are using their programmes and their brand on the website to target their audiences.
They are using the technology to encourage loyalty to their institution: the audience watches their programmes, comes to them for advice, and tips. In turn, the audience finds out about new programmes and then chooses to watch them. If the audience know they can find what they want on that channel then they will pick them first when flicking for something to watch. With the feedback option on the website, it also enables the BBC to schedule what people want to watch, which benefits the viewers too.
Key Concepts
The key concepts that work on this website are interactivity, immediacy, personalisation, time-shift, diversification, vertical integration, narrowcasting and fragmentation.
The website contains lots of interactivity, which keeps the reader interested and loyal to that particular website. Interactivity is present on this website in a number of different forms, such as the large quantity of videos available to watch, the message boards and blogs to leave comments on. You can have updates sent to your e-mail as well as personalise your own garden plan online and set up a calendar for planting plants.
Immediacy works in the speed and instant gratification that readers gain through the website being easy to access the content of the website. You can have updates sent to your mobile and newsletters e-mailed to you.
A major advantage for the reader is that you can personalise the website to cater to your needs. You can choose what recipes you want, set up a calendar for your garden, and watch videos about things that you want to watch rather than sitting through a whole programme.
Time-Shift
Time-shift lets the website be accessible to people whenever they want it, rather than having to watch TV at a scheduled time. Things are easy to find and download (such as some videos) rather than programming a video to record.
Vertical Integration
The website contains links to many other BBC channels, programmes and areas of interest, meaning that the website isn’t just good for finding out about lifestyle, but everything else such as the news, weather and TV scheduling.
Diversification is a diverse audience with niche interests, through having the main lifestyle section and then sub-sections of special interest it draws in a wider audience. The narrowcasting is the targeting of niche media, media which is relevant to niche hobbies and lifestyle choices. Fragmentation is the breaking down of these niche groups, particular types of gardens (e.g. avid or new) and cooks (certain types of foods and levels of skill).
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