How is REDSM different from other ESD providers?
First, RED is neutral. We don't have a store, nor are we the merchant of record. We merely sit behind the scenes providing a technology-rich system that enables trusted secure distribution of your digital content to the masses of consumers shopping at online retailers. Neutral third-party transaction verification is critical so that you are aware of, have control over, and get paid for your products sold.
Second, RED is efficient. You only have to upload or change your content once to be able to offer it to any of the retailers participating in RED in real-time.
Third, RED expands your reach. Unlike outsourced e-commerce models, in which your titles are indiscriminately thrown into a large digital catalog, RED allows online retailers to do what they do best – merchandise your titles to their customers for maximum revenue potential.
How many retailers are participating in RED?
Protexis went live with TigerDirect.com in February 2007, offering software downloads on their web site. We have also signed an agreement with Microsoft to provide electronic software distribution on the Windows Marketplace site. We are currently talking to many of the world's leading distributors and retailers and expect several be added to the system very quickly.
But remember that Protexis puts you in control. That means you select which retailers can sell your titles. When any new retailer joins the network, you are notified of its participation and then you choose whether you want to make your title available for sale on its site.
Are other forms of digital content like music or videos supported by the RED system?
Although RED is available today for software, the technology is very robust and scalable to all types of digital content. If you are interested in enabling other forms of digital content and would like to be on the forefront of its availability, please contact us directly.
Can I select which retailers carry my products?
Yes. Because RED is not one-size-fits-all, you can select which retailers you would like to carry your products. Also, with our easy-to-use interface, you can login anytime and update product offerings and your distribution mix.
How is Protexis uniquely positioned to offer this solution?
As a neutral party that does not retail or distribute software ourselves, Protexis does not compete with its retail partners. We enable retailers with custom inventory that is seamlessly integrated into their shopping carts - not our own. Neutrality is required.
We recognize that publishers have long been seeking a solution that will give technology-based confidence from a trusted third-party to make your valuable gold masters available for download across retailers on the web. This gives you a source of real-time global audit for payments received from the channel. No digital package is fulfilled from any retailers without your knowledge of the transaction.
Protexis not only pioneered the first commercially available product activation technology which is still in wide use today, but also has a strong intellectual property portfolio validating the robust technology foundation of all of our products. Plus, the management team has decades of experience as thought leaders in the industry.
Further, we have been the underlying technology for CNET Network's Upload.com web site, powering the copy protection, trial enablement, customer registration and e-commerce services for products on Download.com. Protexis currently serves multi-billion dollar retailers and over 1,800 software publishers.
How long does it take to get up and running?
It can literally take just minutes. However long it takes to upload your product files and fill out the product marketing information. It's that easy.
If you need to add any trial capabilities or copy protection to your software, this can also be implemented very quickly through our online service – again, within a matter of minutes.
Do I have to make any changes to my application?
No. As long as your product is packaged into a single compressed file set, you can simply upload it to the RED system. If you need to add trial capabilities or copy protection to your software, you will have to make some minor adjustments to your installer package.
Who is the merchant of record for the transactions?
Each retailer functions as its own merchant of record. It is from within the retailer's shopping environment and shopping cart that your titles will be purchased and fulfilled. You don't need to have a merchant of record account to participate.
How do I get paid for my sales?
Protexis pays you monthly for the previous month's sales. You will receive payment via your choice of ACH (direct deposit), PayPal or wire transfer.
What does it cost?
There is no fee for joining the RED system. Each retailer simply withholds a percentage of each completed transaction, which is outlined in each retailer agreement. You will enjoy margins similar to those of traditional distribution and markedly better than outsourced e-commerce options. Plus, you will enjoy the cost savings of not having to fulfill physical products.
Why should I do this now?
The $3 billion ESD market is expected to triple by the end of the decade. And, now there is finally a way for you to leverage this growth at no additional cost, and very little time involvement. This is the future of online digital content distribution; how can you afford to wait?
Can I see a demo of the product?
Sure. Simply contact a Protexis representative to set up an online or in-person demonstration.
How do I get started?
Simply contact a Protexis representative. They'll be happy to discuss RED with you in further detail and set up a RED account for you.
