OriginalPhoenix
Professor Emeritus
Thought this might interest any of you who are crying for petitions at every corner.
Those of you who are fans of the DVD format might be aware of the recent unpleasantness when Warner Bros. announced that they were releasing the 30th anniversary edition of WILLY WONKA AND THE CHOCOLATE FACTORY in full-frame/pan-and-scan only. DVD supporters far and wide on the Internet denounced the move, demanding that Warner release an original aspect ratio (widescreen) version, and cancelled thousands upon thousands of preorders to emphasize the point. An online petition was begun, complete with a very professional letter outlining the reasons for the outcry. In less than four weeks, over 11,000 people signed this single petition.
Today, Warner announced that they have decided to heed the voices of their customers, and will release a widescreen version in November.
So why did this petition work? Simple -- it was presented very professionally, with a clear and concise goal stated up front, without any negative commentary or flaming. Word of the petition spread rapidly through the online DVD community (Web sites, message boards, newsgroups), allowing supporters everywhere to be involved.
Take note -- THAT'S how to run a petition.
Those of you who are fans of the DVD format might be aware of the recent unpleasantness when Warner Bros. announced that they were releasing the 30th anniversary edition of WILLY WONKA AND THE CHOCOLATE FACTORY in full-frame/pan-and-scan only. DVD supporters far and wide on the Internet denounced the move, demanding that Warner release an original aspect ratio (widescreen) version, and cancelled thousands upon thousands of preorders to emphasize the point. An online petition was begun, complete with a very professional letter outlining the reasons for the outcry. In less than four weeks, over 11,000 people signed this single petition.
Today, Warner announced that they have decided to heed the voices of their customers, and will release a widescreen version in November.
So why did this petition work? Simple -- it was presented very professionally, with a clear and concise goal stated up front, without any negative commentary or flaming. Word of the petition spread rapidly through the online DVD community (Web sites, message boards, newsgroups), allowing supporters everywhere to be involved.
Take note -- THAT'S how to run a petition.