The Details of the LongTail

The Old Ways - Transition Technologies - The Long Tail

Network TV - Cable - Tivo
Radio - Walkmans - iPods
Bookstore - Library/Resell - Amazon
Movie Theater - Blockbuster - Netflix
Phones - Pay phones - Cell Phones
Record Store - Napster - iTunes

Each old way generally goes through a transition phase, trying to get to the new way. Some transition phases can last 10+ years.

Notice that all the "Long Tail" technologies are "on demand." Consumers live in this world.