As the power of the network, the costs of create product and inventory reduced greatly. This change cause a lot of websites which using the network + the long tail to build a new business model. The case of Amazon and Netflix which mentioned in class are very successful samples. However, after I realize the benefit of long tail +internet such as infinite shelf space, the cost advantages and capabilities, there still are two views which are not mentioned in the class.
Long Tail theory point out as long as the small market gathered together, we can create the business opportunities. The problem is how to find these small markets?
1. Wide delivery with social media
Formerly, to discover these potential small markets and deliver accurately of messages to target audiences is a very hard work. But now, in order to the power of the social media are rising up, it decrease the difficulty and let the thing become easier. For example, Facebook's "Like" and Twitter's "Tweet" may help to spread out the message. I think the only thing need to be noted is simplify the process and makes it easy to check the share button. This may be a very challenging issue. Another sample is public website Crisiscommons. Crisiscommons put social media sharing button below each article and using the power of social media to attract more potential users.
2: a better search experience
Long tail proves that the business opportunities of small business cannot be ignored. It does not mean the thing is done after web site operators successfully attract their target and move them into the website. A good search experience is an important point in whole long tail theory. It shouldn't be omitted. If user can't find the thing he need in your website, it just like you didn't open the market. More similar happen like this will lead long tail into a short tail, this is not the way to become the winner.
The example is Amazon which mentioned in the class is using recommendable system to help consumers. I think it is a good Sample. It show that When consumers can get more value in the site, the tail will become more longer.
This is my reflections about leveraging the Long Tail after the class. I hope you will like it!
Reference:
5 Ways Mega Charity Events Can Harness the Power of Social Media
Great post, your explanation involves me more understand about the Long tail concept. Good example and well explanation.
ReplyDeleteI am interested in CrisisCommons which seems like a meaningful tool focusing on supporting crisis management. Thanks for sharing.
ReplyDeleteWow, very beneficial sites for people who experienced devastating disasters and third world countries. In my opinion, every countries should have this kind of community to help people. All must be linked to support each community. Is it possible to have this in Australia and links to other countries?
ReplyDeletegood example
Very clean and easy to understand post about this pattern,social media really plays a big part of people's daily life now, the successful businesses are those who adpted those technologies
ReplyDeleteTo Pond: I think Crisiscommons is already global website. As it mentioned, there are over 3,000 people have participated worldwide in over 30 cities across 10 countries.
ReplyDeleteI tried the Amazon's search system before, to find some really old discs. And it works well. very good experience for Long Tail Theory.
ReplyDelete