The ala carte iPod Video store is getting worse, not better. If you watch only one TV show per week (and you don’t already have a cable subscription), I’m sure their efforts are a godsend. However, if you’re like me, and already have three DVRs in your house to record all the shows you want to watch, this lack-of-subscription thing is an absolute nightmare.
…I’m thoroughly disappointed that I can’t take my Napster subscription with me on my PSP or iPod. Instead, companies want me to spend even MORE money for LESS freedom – and to complicate my life even more than it was before. The sad thing is, many folks walk into it blindly thinking it… “looks like fun.” Bullshit. It’s all Bullshit, and Apple’s leading the bullshit charge (albeit with style).
Bullshit? Hmm. Convenient? Yes. It’s all about variety and viscousity. Offer just enough variety with a low viscosity among the key moving parts (discovery, purchase, and download) and you’re set. It’s just another take on the path of least resistance. Nature doesn’t lie.
Perhaps we need a viscosity index for software experiences end to end?
One response to “Chris says it's time for Subscriptions. Pass the oil please.”
Viscosity is a great word to apply to the consumer experience. Did you just invent that, or is this another one of those "new age economic terms" I keep seeing in the blogosphere?
Actually, I could rant on and on about reinventing economics with new terminology that tends to alienate rather than illuminate. But, for the moment, I’m climbing on the bandwagon and experimenting by embracing all the new media economic buzzwords to see how they feel.
I keep preaching to people about "reducing obstacles to use" and how every single consumer step, from the first "impulse to use" through to the highly desirable loyalty-purchase behavior must be almost effortless. Viscosity is a great word, and I’ll start using it. Thanks!