Examines retail sales of CD-ROMs. Topics addressed include the current situation in CD-ROM retailing; channel distribution options; myths and realities of CD-ROM distribution; the distributor; affiliate labels; sales representatives; copublishers; distribution options; distributing resources; and recommendations for new CD-ROM publishers. (LRW)

Discusses the need for security and metering features for CD-ROM products. Topics covered include user productivity issues, pricing problems, integrated information resources, advantages of CD-ROM distribution systems, unauthorized use, content encryption, and multiple simultaneous meters. (MES)

Discusses issues to be considered when networking multimedia CD-ROMs. Topics addressed include CD-ROM networking software; license concerns; configurations for CD-ROM servers; data caching; SCSI devices; CD-ROM drives; workstation configurations, including minimum requirements for five popular CD-ROM titles; and system setup troubleshooting tips.…

Describes the mastering and replication process for CD-ROMs. Costs are discussed, the production cycle of a CD-ROM is explained, packaging is described, testing to increase the reliability of discs is discussed, and a directory of mastering and replication facilities is provided. (LRW)

Describes how audio technology is being integrated into CD-ROMs to create multimedia products. Computer hardware and software are discussed, including the use of HyperCard to combine still pictures, moving video pictures, and sound; and specific new multimedia products produced by the Voyager Company are described. (LRW)

Describes CD-ROM technologies, including how to access them. Highlights include a history of CD-ROM development; multimedia; Macintosh versus DOS/Window users; CD-ROM XA; adding audio and video; Photo CD; video compression; new products; and a list of companies, their CD-ROM products, features and costs. (LRW)

Discusses and reviews CD-ROM bundles--i.e., hardware, software and CD-ROM kits--including their features, specifications, drawbacks, and prices. Recommends buying through mail order for the best selection and price. The pros and cons of bundling as a marketing strategy are discussed and a list of vendors is provided. (EA)

Describes the technology involved in codecs (compression/decompression products) that are used by CD-ROM producers to compress video to CD-ROM data transfer rates for multimedia materials. The performance of codecs is evaluated both for quality and for ease of use, and recommendations are offered. (LRW)

Describes Microsoft's Windows with Multimedia Extensions Software for the IBM PC. Topics addressed include hardware and software requirements, enhancements to the standard Windows environment, computing standards utilized, how Multimedia Extensions interacts with applications and devices, extensibility and ease of use, and CD-ROM performance…

Provides an overview of CD-ROM technology and local area networking focusing on NetWare Loadable Modules (NLMs) which provide network access to CD-ROMs, using Novell's NetWare operating system. The characteristics and benefits of various products and concerns in choosing one are discussed, and comparative specifications and vendors are listed.…

Discusses CD-ROM development, including common production terms (data acquisition, rights acquisition, data conversion, indexing, authoring, premastering, image building, replication); describes the roles of project team members (script writers, artists, designers, programmers, managers, distributors); and explains the differences between CD-ROM…

This explanation of how the basic economic model of pricing applies to the CD-ROM industry considers the supply and demand sides of the market and compares three distinct pricing strategies: (1) pricing to maximize profits; (2) average cost pricing; and (3) marginal cost pricing. (EAM)

Examines issues surrounding CD-ROM as an organizational information management tool: (1) the CD-ROM market; (2) pitfalls, including compatibility, effect on existing information systems, fear of obsolescence, protection of sensitive information, and lack of successful role models; and (3) factors that will fuel growth, including greater…

The first of two articles on in-house CD-ROM publishing deals with estimating costs and selecting hardware. Topics include premastering systems, delivery systems, staffing requirements, organizational requirements, publishing partnerships, estimating costs, retrieval software costs, and media costs. A cost summary for complete CD-ROM application…

Discusses design options for CD-ROM storage. Highlights include a marketing strategy resulting in the creation of the jewel box; replacement and duplex jewel boxes; caddies; business furniture companies for large collections; flip-racks; and lazy-susans. (AEF)