Digi pack introduction

As I have researched magazine posters for my ancillary text subsidiary 1, I will now look at existing digi packs and research the product in general to find out the history, purposes and advantages of having a digi pack. I have already looked at album covers to gain the codes and conventions of normal/standard albums, so i will be looking more at the style and layout of digipacks and try to incorporate these into my own product through a drafting process.

This an existing digi pack by the classic indie/rock - Oasis - Acoustic volume 1

From my research on digi packs they are a modern form of CD cases in that they don't have the traditional jewel case packaging and that they are made from card or heavy paper which is easily formed into a book-like case. This also saves time, effort and money as it can be easily manipulated into this shape. They were first created by Meadwestvaco which they created their Digi pak product and trademark. Now as this style has become more popular for artists distribution, the generic term digi-pack is a common term used to describe any soft CD packaging. There are pros and cons to this packaging however: the pros of using a digi pack is that its cheaper to make, creates a shatterproof case preventing any damages. The materials used for the digi pack can also be environmentally friendly as it can b recycled, although they are not always made like this. The book- like design also opens up more design and creativity to the producer. A lot of artists and labels however mainly use them for aesthetic reasons (the way it looks).

The cons of using a digipack is that, even though they are shatterproof, they are still very prone to been damaged as they are only made out of thick card which wears and tears after a period of time. Also because the outside is thin, it doesn't protect the plastic teeth holding the CD in place inside sometimes causing them to break. This could result int he CD actually falling out of the packaging as there is nothing to stop the CD as it open like a book. So for these reasons jewel case covers are better in protecting the CD. They are also quite costly so many unsigned or new bands/artists may opt for the jewel case option instead to save money.

There are different types of digi packs too as they come in different sizes such as four panels, 6 panels and 8 panels. For my ancillary task I have been asked to produce a 6 paneled digi pack for my album and therefore create a front cover, back cover and two inside covers which appear underneath the glass cd holder part.

Here is a template of the layout and measurements: