Adapt or Die
The Internet has overturned the existing order of many industries: journalism, encyclopedias, bookstores…and also music. But why have the existing powers in each of those industries been unable to adapt to the brave, new world of the Internet? Ron Miller hits the nail on the head when he writes: “The Internet is the best distribution channel ever created and it’s up to musicians and record companies to figure out how to exploit it. And here’s a hint: It’s not the old way of selling records.” Miller may have written about the music industry but his theme applies for the others as well: distribution is easier than at any other time in history but the powers that be haven’t adjusted to find a new way to make money. The music industry got saved (in part) due to the iPod and more importantly, Steve Jobs. Not a man known for his people skills, Jobs berated the music bigwigs of the time: “You guys have your heads up your asses.” The music industry of the day was fighting (and l