Death of the CD-ROM

A good client recently came to me about sending a Flash presentation out using CD-ROMs. As I was writing him, I decided to turn it into a post so maybe someone else can benefit from this information. Any feedback would be welcomed.

I am not a big fan of CD-ROMs. I really don't see the point. I am in favor of putting everything on the web and handing out the address (URL). Then the piece can be updated or changed without the hassle of duplication. Here are a few of the many drawbacks to using CD-ROMs to deploy a presentation:

• CD-ROM duplication costs: Look at spending at least $1.00 per disc with printing and some sort of basic sleeve.
• User feedback: Part of the benefit of interactive applications is getting feedback and making revisions, creating a better user experience. That is not possible with a CD-ROM. Once it is duplicated and sent out, it is done.
• Outdated information: Contact information, methods, styles, logos, and data all change on a regular basis. Once you send it out on a CD-ROM, there is no turning back. Even if you were to release a new version, the old CDs are still in circulation with out of date information.
• Accessibilty: The information on a CD-ROM can only be accessed by the person holding the disc. You can reach a much broader audience if it were posted on the web. On the other hand, if you want to limit access, just password protect the area in question.
• Distribution: A CD-ROM has to be delivered by hand to its end user. This has added cost and time implications. A URL can be sent to someone immediately and for free via email. If you need something tangible for a mailing or as a leave behind, a postcard or business card with the URL should do the trick. Postcards can be printed with minimal cost.
• Tracking users: One of the great things about anything on the web is that you can easily track usage. This information could be quite valuable in creating future campaigns or presentations. Tracking users of CD-ROMs is, of course, impossible.

In conclusion, I would guess that there might be some reason for using CD-ROMs but, for the majority of instances, I believe are a waste of time and resources. CD-ROMs are an outdated medium and their effectiveness is limited. People don't even buy music on CDs anymore!