For example, let's take four scenarios for a piece of software that I mail to you.
1. Full color CD in DVD-style clamshell case with full-color insert with screenshots on the back. two-page mini-manual inside, shipped in a fitted cardboard mailer. Total cost:
Media (inkjet printable CD-R) - $0.25
DVD Case - $0.29
Insert and mini-manual printing - $0.25
Cardboard DVD Mailer - $0.43
Postage - $1.50 (first class or media mail)
Total cost: $2.72
2. Full color printed CD in plastic jewel case with full-color square insert. Setup instructions printed on the jewel case insert or CD. Mailed in a small cardboard jewel-case box. Total cost:
Media (inkjet printable CD-R) - $0.25
CD Jewel Case - $0.24
Insert printing - $0.10
Cardboard mailer - $0.26
Postage - $1.25 (first class)
Total cost: $2.10
3. Full color printed CD packed and mailed in a scratch-resistant cardboard mailer Installation instructions printed on the CD.
Media (inkjet printable CD-R) - $0.25
Mailer - $0.59
Postage - $0.60 (first class)
Total cost: $1.44
4. Full color printed CD packed and mailed in folded orgami CD case printed on stiff paper. Installation instructions printed on the paper and/or the CD.
Media (inkjet printable CD-R) - $0.25
Insert printing (stiff paper) - $0.15
Postage - $0.60 (first class)
Total cost: $1.00
The question is, how important would it be for you to receive the "deluxe" packaging over the no-frills one? Would you be willing to take no-frills packaging if you could save $1 or $2 on the product?
Or, as an alternate question, what price-point would you expect to pay for the above items? For example, would you feel ripped off if you paid $20 for packaging choice 3 or 4? How about if you paid $5? At what price-point would you expect to get each packaging choice?
I'll start the discussion by posting my own worthless opinion first. Respond with your own worthless opions.
Packaging choice 4 doesn't bother me as long as it's software that doesn't require a manual and it arrives safely. Choice 3 might prevent having to re-mail discs that are scratched in transit, so it might be worth the extra 44 cents. I don't need cases, as I store all my software in a file-box in slim jewel cases, so if I get software in a larger case (thick jewel case or DVD case), I always end up throwing out the packaga anyway. If I could save a few bucks for cheap packaging (long as it's safe), I'd take it.