Content "Special Delivery"

As I mentioned in my last post, I had a bit of time to read during my recent vacation.  I am always encouraged by the degree to which ECM is covered in the popular press.  In several previous posts, I have discussed the cutting edge nature of content delivery – the focus of the AIIM Market IQ in Q4 2008.  For several years I have spoken about the advent of e-scent/digiscent into ECM, as a way to deliver more effective or compelling content.  A recent article in Amtrak’s “Arrive” magazine, discusses the power of scent as a marketing tool.  While the article does not specifically connect to the subject to ECM, it relates to it, especially to the ECM-inclined eye.  It refers to “Scent-sending Equipment” – read olfactory-enabled computers; and signature scents – read trademarked, digitally stored and managed odors.  (See previous post for more details).

OK, so the advent of digiscent as a form of ECM output is not enough to excite you, and get your imagination going.  Well how about 3D printing?  According to an article in The Boston Globe, firms such as Shapeways.com now provide low cost 3D printing - taking your online content and turning it into an acrylic or polycarbonate object. Once only available to Fortune 500 engineering departments, this technology is now priced for and targeted at individual users.

Still not impressed? How about using inkjet printing technology to output human tissue and organs?  Really.  Want to know more, start your research here.

I am guessing that when we execute the Market IQ survey on Content On Ramps (capture) and Off Ramps (delivery), we will find that most organizations are not yet embracing the digital capture and/or delivery of scent, touch, taste or tissue.  But it is only a matter of time and imagination.  Remember, twenty some odd years ago, most companies were not transforming paper documents to online images.  ECM technology is evolving and continues to push our creative and business process envelopes.  I have no doubt that, in time, truly diverse multimedia online content will be a reality.  Those ready to embrace and leverage it will have significant market advantage.

The discussion and observations made in the upcoming Market IQ should prove interesting.  Stay tuned …

Comments

[Joe]

here's how it works: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TQoTro9WfbQ

[C. Russell Brumfield]

Hello there,
Very interesting observations.
Just want to know if you have picked up my new book covering the entire industry of scent marketing, communication, and technology.
Whiff! The Revolution of Scent Communication in the Information Age (www.amazon.com - and in bookstores)
Only came out this summer, an we are getting good press - I am a co-founder of Air Aroma America - and investor in several of these new technologies -
would love to see you cover them.

Thanks,
Russell Brumfield

[General Fabb]

If you're interested in following the news on 3D Printing and digital fabrication, you might consider reading our blog at Fabbaloo or http://fabbaloo.com