Long Tail Theory & Online Consuming Behavior

1. The Long Tail Theory is very important in understanding distribution and can offer a unique look at the way we see consumption and popularity. After watching the video and reading further about the topic, one thing that came to mind was iPhone sales when a new model is released. When the day finally comes that a new version of the iPhone or iPad is released, customers line the blocks waiting to be one of the first to get their hands on the new technology. This frenzy causes a radical boost in sales, almost all at once, because people see value in being the first to own a product like that. But after time, the popularity drops off dramatically since people either already have the product or do not plan to buy it. The Long Tail Theory works in the same way where there is a huge spike in popularity or consumption followed by a dramatic decrease that becomes smaller and smaller over time. This suggests, at least for the example that I used, that this theory explains why sales can be so high then be so low and never regain strength. Overall this theory is very interesting and can be applied to any number of situations.

2. When talking about the different online consuming segments, the one I most closely identified with was the entertainment user. I mostly use the internet for following my favorite sports teams and television shows which is what makes me feel closest with this segment. While other people might be more interested in shopping or gaming, I choose to spend my time on the internet doing things like playing fantasy football, following sporting events and teams and watching television shows. That is why I would classify myself into that category.