Scratch and Theft Proof

Have you ever purchased a disc only to open it and find that the hub that held the disc had broken, leaving the disc to shake freely within the case, scratching the bottom to the point of playback issues? Have you ever produced a retail disc where thieves slipped the case open to take the disc, bypassing the security tag? Both of these scenarios can be avoided with the GLMT Security Case. The Security Case is identical in size to a standard DVD case, but includes two movable braces that securely hold the disc within its tray against hub breakage or attempted theft. A simple but ingenious new way to add extra protection for your discs.

GLMT Adds Another Piece to the Da Vinci Code

On the heels of this popular novel and film comes the nationally distributed board game, available through Barnes and Noble, Borders, Target, and other retailers. The Da Vinci Code game includes a variety of components for playing the game with, and also an instructional DVD, manufactured and printed by Great Lakes Media Technology. It’s no mystery that we were delighted to take part in such a high profile project, and it’s another great example of using digital media capabilities to enhance print formats and products. More info on the game can be found here.

LP or CD?

It certainly looks like a vinyl record, but it’s actually a CD. Canadian Brass recently approached us with a project idea for their next disc. In order to tie the theme of the music (Dixieland Jazz) to the release, they wanted a look that would bring past and present together. So, they had us design the face of the CD to look like an older media format – the vinyl LP. The group thought it was a perfect combination. Here’s what founding member Chuck Daellenbach had to say:

“Luther Henderson has placed the Canadian Brass in direct touch with the music of the America jazz era-the first half of the twentieth century. We tried to create the mood of that era in several ways, and then we hit upon one of the most obvious links to the past . . . the grooved disc. As soon as one sees the old-disc look, the association is undeniable. We thought that this visually prepares listeners for the classic jazz music they are about to experience.”

To experience this package and music yourself, pick up a copy by going here. If you’re thinking about creating a similar look for your next project, or something entirely unique, let us know. We’ll make it happen, and possibly feature your project in an upcoming newsletter.

A New Level In Print Advertising: e:Patch

A lot of people get information from magazines. While many publications have switched to web, many are still printed due to consumer demands. At some point, magazine readers have likely turned the page to find a CD-ROM attached to an advertisement. This is known as an e:Patch, and can be applied in large quantities to any magazine or catalog publication in order to supply a disc in conjunction with the ad. As competitive and challenging as it is to get your ad noticed, it would be pretty hard to miss a disc attached to the page. If your company does higher volume advertising in magazines, or produces a catalog that you wish had a stronger direct link to online ordering, call us today to find out how the e:Patch can work for you.

As we approach our tenth year in business, it’s amazing to realize all of the stories we’ve helped people tell over the years. From individuals to Fortune 500 companies, everyone has a story, and we’re proud to have been able to help so many people through digital communication. This very email is an example of how we‘ve helped people stay in touch with each other. Plus, corporate training videos, product catalogs, audio CDs, independent films; the stories that have been told are nearly endless, and we look forward to hearing and seeing many more. Here are some words from our partners that reflect these sentiments:

“Thank you for your efforts with my price book project. I am very pleased with how everything turned out.” – S. Bemowski

“I can’t tell you how beautiful they (DVDs) look–so professional. I sold quite a few at the event this past weekend so I thank you for all your help!!” – A. Nemanic

What’s your story? How are you telling it? Give us a call and we’ll help you tell your story.

Revolutionary Visual Media Packaging: Steelbook

An amazing development in packaging, the SteelBook consists of a metal exterior and an inner core of plastic (similar to a standard DVD case), with outer dimensions exactly the same as a standard DVD case.

Creative use of packaging can ensure that your product or promotional media attracts attention, and Steelbook is one of the most impressive examples of this we’ve seen in a long time. The product offers a full range of design possibilities and is suitable for printing and embossing. Print on metal is approaching photographic quality, and as a medium, metal can create unique aesthetic qualities able to capture both a modern and contemporary feel. Also, decorated tins have often become collectors’ items and valued gifts in themselves. From a promotional, marketing and selling standpoint, Steelbook is a total packaging solution. Call us to discuss how this packaging can work for your project.

DVD Demystified III

The third edition of the most well-known DVD facts resource is now available, reflecting the current state of technology and capabilities of this format. Written by Jim Taylor and published by McGraw Hill, this edition features expanded content on blue-laser physical formats, HD content and advanced interactivity. Check out reviews and more info on the book at Amazon.

Rockstar ‘06

GLMT returns as co-sponsor of this yearly competition. The Rockstar Project was created to discover new vocalists and to provide these vocalists with publicity, performance opportunities and the start of a great career. The Rockstar Project’s auditions, contestants, producers and entire competition is profiled extensively by 94.5 WKTI and Time Warner Cable’s “Wisconsin on Demand” Digital Channel 1111. GLMT took part by manufacturing and printing the CD release for this year’s winning contestent, Terry Dewit. Congratulations, Terry! And thanks to The Rockstar Project for another outstanding event. Visit The Rockstar Project.

Burst Records Launch

After years of crafting music for companies such as BMW and Gatorade, shows like American Idol and West Wing, Burst Records has begun releasing music to the public. Having worked with Burst on the disc manufacturing and packaging side of their business for a number of years, we knew what they’d be looking for when it came to launching their new Burst Records web site. We built the site using HTML, Flash, CSS, Javascript, PHP, and XML to present the artist/release info, sound samples, and purchase options with easy-to-use navigation, while maintaining the company’s overall branding. Take a look at the work here and learn more about Burst Records too!

GLMT at ACCM Chicago

Next month we’ll be exhibiting at the ACCM Show, a conference to help businesses exceed their customers’ multichannel expectations and increase their profits. We’ll be showcasing some specific products that will help drive response rates, usability, and buyer interest for catalog and direct mail producers. The show runs from May 8 – 10 at the McCormick Place in Chicago. Contact us to receive a brochure (while they last) or visit the conference web site here for more information. Hope to see you there!