With the proliferation of CDs and DVDs, customers are forced to take more time to plan and budget for the one element that many times is left last on the list of priorities , which is PACKAGING. And to add to the complication of developing and publishing a CD-ROM, a venture into the world of CD-ROM packaging can be quite an experience.

What are the current packages being used today?

The answer to this question is only limited by your imagination. Just as the applications for CD-ROM are numerous, so are the packaging options available. When the CD-ROM format was first introduced, it only made sense for most publishers to follow the current "standard" used in the CD audio industry -- the hard plastic jewel box. But, as handling costs and sensitivity for the environment have become concerns, packaging companies have focused toward developing smarter, more ecological packages rather than a bigger, egocentric ones. In light of these developments, a whole host of products began to emerge. Publishers are now able to choose from a full range of options: from expensive, high end packages to very inexpensive, low end ones. Each has its advantages and disadvantages. Typical methods used today are:

Jewel boxes
Multiple disc jewel boxes
Jewel box and printed CD pack combinations
Plastic tray and paperboard variations
Paper Sleeve products
Self-mailers
Other custom designed packages

With the changing needs of CD-ROM publishers, this list will only continue to increase in length and variety. This has caused some concern for replicating and fulfillment facilities as this lack of a "standard" for packaging can be a logistical nightmare.

There are certain elements for finding the package that is right for your need.

The first and foremost consideration is the product positioning and the distribution channel you plan to distribute your CD-ROM through. There is a tremendous difference in what is needed to market and package your CD-ROM through a retail channel versus sending it directly to the end user. If your company markets through both channels, then quite possibly you will need to consider two separate packaging types. Your main objective for a good retail package should be simple: Get the customer to pick up the product and buy it. In a retail environment, your package is often the only way a consumer will know about your product. And, aside from content, your package is the way end users and distributors will view you.

One important issue to remember for packaging is protection. A well designed, properly made packaging will save you more time in the long run and will avoid expensive setbacks. The best overall advice to offer for retail CD-ROM packaging is that if you do not have the expertise, try a reputable design firm or contact your disc replicator or packaging company for further help.

Customers who market titles directly to end users or OEM have a variety of packages they can choose from. Some still opt for the retail box arrangement while many others are beginning to choose a less expensive route to get their product unscathed from point A to point B. Others are also designing their own creative packages using a combination of available resources; it all depends on their needs.

Depending on Single or Multiple Disc Set

If it is a single disc title, your options are many. But if you have a multi disc project then you could look at adding a graphic insert or booklet, many of the plain paper or PVC sleeves may be too basic. You will need something to accommodate both the disc and the graphics. If your title is a multiple disc set, a multi-disc jewel box still might not be the best option. In this case, you may want to consider a CD cardboard wallet or a CD pack arrangement for added flexibility.

The overall cost also is a consideration to be kept in mind. A customer that spends hundreds or thousands of dollars on a title would expect to receive a lot more than a disc packaged in a baggy. On the other hand, an expensive, poorly designed package can sometimes be more cumbersome for storing and accessing a title than simpler solutions.

End User Response and Needs are to be considered.

Many customers do not even think about this element until after they receive poor feedback from their customers. For some one-time only use disks, it makes more sense to have a low-end packaging like CD sleeves. Some may even throw away the package entirely and keep the disc in a disc caddy. Other end users may be inundated with subscription, demo, or other frequently updated discs. In this case, sufficient storage space becomes a problem, especially if they are sent in jewel boxes or other large packages. Being aware of your end users needs and having concern for their space limitations thus becomes an important foresight before deciding on your package. Providing your end users with unbreakable space saving, and reusable packaging might be an ideal solution.

If a manual or loose-leaf binder accompanies the disc, consider self adhesive sleeves to keep the disc and the manual together. Another alternative would be a loose-leaf page to store the discs right along with the printed material.

Quantity Run
A further consideration for publishers is the quantity of discs to be replicated. If you are doing a small beta test or one-off batch (less than 100 units), your best bet would be to consider a package that is a stocked item like CD cases. Trying to create a custom printed or manufactured package in low quantities can be very costly and may not be worth the initial investment. Save these funds for later on when the disc has been test marketed and is ready for full market release.

Turnaround Time

Because packaging is low on the list of priorities, package planning and implementation can become a harried experience for many. To avoid a budget overrun, thinking ahead and including packaging in your initial planning will save you a great deal of grief later on. A suggestion to help avoid these problems is to discuss turnaround times with us.

There are many areas for setbacks when publishing a CD-ROM. Packaging can be an easy one to avoid with proper planning. By keeping yourself informed of the options, you are one step ahead of the game, and it will be the best time management technique you can use. It is also important to keep in mind that any alterations or design changes to stocked products are considered custom and require additional lead-time. Most times, the simpler you can keep your package the better.

Have a look through our website to see the various options and solutions avaialble , or speak to out team to help you out with your packaging needs.