Analysis of Digipaks

Learning comment: From extensive analysis into digipaks, it is easy to see that they are seen somewhat as a secondary product to the classic plastic music cases (jewel cases). Of course, the standard plastic cases are a hard product to compete with but it probably fair to say that, through my research, there is not an overall positive feel towards the digipak. For example, when talking to my parents and grandparents about them, they had neither owned a digipak or even heard of what they are. After great lengths of explanation, they understood the appeal of them (i.e. the environmental advantages and increased information) and even went as far to say that they would potentially buy one in the future.

As well as older generations, i also spoke to teenagers about their opinions of digipaks. The general consensus was that they were a popular product within the older teenage years and most prominent within alternative or indie genres of music. Bands such as Arctic Monkeys and Catfish and the Bottlemen were mentioned when digipak owners expressed their favourite genres of music. Nearly all teens agreed that the digipak was a much more valuable product for the customer as it offered more than a standard plastic case.

As a result, this research task has been of great help to me specifically because it has opened my eyes up to wider views of digipaks. Given that the general consensus is that younger generations are much more interested and engaged with the digipak format as opposed to older demographics (i.e. 40 yrs+) I will use that to my advantage when choosing the genre of music I want to base my final product around. For example, the selection of an indie genre of music may bode well in order to appeal to teenagers and young adults. Bands such as Catfish and the Bottlemen and The Kooks are two examples of how popular indie music is within the demographic of 16-21 and, subsequently, using a music of this genre would be appropriate and successful.