NARM Launches Digital Think Tank

MARLTON, N.J.--(Business Wire)--
The National Association of Recording Merchandisers officially announces the
launch of its Digital Think Tank, a task force of NARM members dedicated to
resolving issues surrounding the business of digital music.

"The music supply chain has become incredibly complicated," said NARM President
Jim Donio. "Historically, NARM has been the instrument of change in helping
identify and resolve operational issues surrounding the sale and distribution of
physical product. With the Digital Think Tank, we`re bringing our
problem-solving experiences from the physical world to bear on similar issues
surrounding digital music. The mission is to help make the business and consumer
experience in the digital realm the best it can be."

The Digital Think Tank established working groups to tackle three broadly
defined issues identified by the NARM membership: digital supply chain and
operations, metrics and data visualization, and product development.

"New products and services increase the need for better information flow between
partners. Operational efficiencies are key, and that`s what the Digital Supply
Chain & Operations Work Group will seek to address," said Bill Wilson, NARM`s
Director of Digital Strategy & Business Development.

Content creators and retailers also want to be able to react quickly to the
on-demand market and render timely marketing and programming decisions. Various
entities provide myriad types and levels of information, and the Metrics & Data
Visualization Work Group will seek ways to compile that information to make it
even more insightful.

All of these issues relate to the bottom line of everyone involved in the
development of new music business models. The Product Development Work Group
will serve as a resource and sounding board for those who identify and want to
rapidly deploy new music services for fans.

Members serving on the Digital Think Tank include: 7digital, Amazon.com, E1,
EMI, IODA, Iris, iTunes, Microsoft, Mix & Burn, Napster, Neurotic Media, Nokia,
The Orchard, Rhapsody, Rhino, Sony, Topspin, Universal, Verizon, WEA, and
Wind-up.

About NARM: NARM advances the promotion, marketing, distribution and sale of
music by providing members with diverse meeting and networking opportunities,
information and education resources, and advocacy for their common interests.
NARM is based in Marlton, New Jersey. Website: www.narm.com.

NARM
Marla Cimini, 856-616-1194
cimini@narm.com

Copyright Business Wire 2009