by Christopher Cook

Created on: February 03, 2010

Advancements in digital technologies are leading to the demise of video stores as we know them. Companies which brought in millions of dollars in previous years are finding that they are having to either close down stores or adapt. Two of the most popular video outlets have vastly different approaches to keeping up with changing technologies. In order to bring consumers the movies which they want to see, Blockbuster Express has combined digital media with a vending machine (kiosk machines). Kiosk machines are popping up in more and more locations. Another popular video distribution company called Netflix was developed after the worldwide web was used by most of the population. Netflix is strictly about choosing video rentals through the Nextflix website and having them delivered to one's door, or watching live streaming videos via a Netflix ready device. The choice between Netflixs and Blockbuster Express is entirely an individual decision. However, there are few issues to focus on when deciding whether to utilize Blockbuster Express or Netflix. The first consideration is the level of committment that the consumer must invest. Cost is another important consideration. Finally, how accessible is the technology to the consumer?

Blockbuster Express doesn't have the same membership committment that Netflix does.  With Blockbuster Express, you choose the movies you want at home, and print off a list. You put your list into a kiosk machine which in turn will give you a copy of your film for viewing. The advantage of Blockbuster Express is it's committment free, and they have one dollar DVD rentals. Saving money is a definite advantage for the consumer who doesn't watch many films per month.

Netflix's basic package starts at $8.99 per month. For $8.99 the customer may view as many videos as he or she wishes on livestream, if they have a Netflix ready device. Also, they may check out one dvd at a time to be shipped to their front door. Dvds usually ship within one business day. They also have more expensive packages to check out multiple dvds.  Netflix might be most convenient for certain people, because Blockbuster's nearest kiosk machine might not be near the consumer's home.

Using kiosk machines was a smart move for Blockbuster video, because the machines elminate the need for large rental properties or buying a building. Also, blockbuster doen't have to hire as many employees as what they would to run a store. This is important, because this means lower cost for the consumer. The dollar videos that Blockbuster Express offers seem like a really good deal, particularly if one doesn't watch very many movies, and one has a penchant for newer releases.

Netflix has a wider variety of titles than Blockbuster Express. At Netflix one can choose from over 100,000 videos and over 17,000 titles for download. A video buff would probably be smart in going with Netflix, but for the occassional movie watcher Blockbuster Express might be the way to go. However, with technologies changing quickly, more web based film distribution companies, and the sheer number of illegal downloads; it might not be long until Blockbuster Express and Netflix are both in financial trouble. 

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