“Clutter clutter everywhere, and not a drop to drink…”

It used to be that you had to live in a few specific cities, have access to the right people and tools and devote a large amount of time, sacrifice and money to produce content.  This was true for film makers, musicians, artists, writers, illustrators, radio broadcasters, and so on.  Then about 5 years ago, all of those tools became cheap enough for everyone to access.  Laptops became the new form of the PC, and the internet matured to facilitate all the collaboration and distribution you would ever need.  Now EVERYONE, ANYWHERE could create content and distribute it to the world.  It’s the economy of the long tail!  Something for everyone!  Sounds pretty good right?

Maybe not…

I’ve grown increasingly concerned over the sheer amount of “stuff” that’s being produced and distributed on the internet.  Every last person who’s ever wanted to create something, has (including myself).  All of this content is now bleeding out of every site, portal and niche network imaginable.  What’s concerning is the lack of any real GOOD filters to put some sense of order around this mess.  Only the most savvy internet user has any chance at actually finding content that’s new and truly lasting.  Everyone else (especially those over 45) is left to fend for themselves, rendered helpless in this sea of “stuff.”  Many just get distracted, tune out, or eventually give up.

I’m frustrated because everyone who uses the internet could potentially discover their next favorite book, tv show, song or cartoon.  In fact, most people WANT that experience.  However very few ever actually get it.  As a marketer and champion of the independent artist, I want a trusted source that ranks and organizes content, and attracts sizable user-base.

It’s this fundamental problem I’m going to be addressing in a series of posts I’m calling “The Conundrum of Clutter.”  I feel it’s an issue that requires a good deal of examination and exploration.  I’ll interview various demographics, discuss some existing services and try to form some new thinking on how where to go from here.

Stay tuned, and please….post your thoughts below.