Netflix: Streaming vs DVD-by-Mail (2007)
by Anonymous
Reed Hastings bet Netflix's future on streaming video over the internet, even though DVD-by-mail was profitable. Blockbuster declined to buy Netflix for $50 million in 2000. The pivot destroyed Blockbuster and transformed entertainment.
Streaming (Netflix Pivot)
2007
year
Instant over internet
delivery method
Limited initially, grew rapidly
content library
Won — Netflix worth $150B+, Blockbuster bankrupt
outcome
DVD-by-Mail (Status Quo)
1998-2007
year
Physical discs shipped
delivery method
Vast — every DVD available
content library
Profitable but declining
outcome
Brick-and-Mortar Rental (Blockbuster)
1985-2010
year
Drive to store, browse, rent
delivery method
Large but requires inventory
content library
Bankrupt by 2010
outcome
Like this comparison? Make it your own.
Sign up to use as templateMore in History
Lewis and Clark: Northern vs Southern Route (1805)
Lemhi Pass (Northern Route) vs Direct Western Crossing
Wright Brothers: Wing Warping vs Ailerons (1903)
Wing Warping vs Ailerons (Hinged Surfaces)
German Reunification: Fast vs Gradual (1990)
Rapid Reunification vs Gradual Integration vs Two-State Confederation
COVID-19 Vaccines: mRNA vs Traditional (2020)
mRNA Vaccines (Pfizer/Moderna) vs Viral Vector (AstraZeneca/J&J) vs Inactivated Virus (Sinovac/Sinopharm)
GPS: Open to Civilians or Military Only (1983-2000)
Open to Civilians (Full Accuracy) vs Military Only
Spartacus: March on Rome or Escape Over Alps (73 BCE)
Stay in Italy and Fight vs Escape Over the Alps