As new technologies rise, old technologies fade. While most people take is as a sign of the times, some consumers fight the change. Save Polaroid, for example, is a blog that was developed after news broke in February the company would stop producing the instant film as well as the big, boxy cameras.
SavePolaroid.com isn't dedicated to saving Polaroids, it's dedicated to saving the instant film technology invented by Edwin Land. They've created a Flickr group (featured in the gallery) where they encourage users to share photos that depict what Polaroid means to them. They've launched an "Action Pack" which includes flyers and pre-addresed cards to send to companies like Polaroid, Ilford and Fuji about why Polaroid should allow other companies to continue to offer the tech. And, of course, they have a petition they're asking people to sign and tons of ideas on how supporters can promote the site with tools like Digg and Stumble Upon.
As my part, I've written this post as well as included the following Polaroid tribute posts:
Retro Support Groups
Save Polaroid
Trend Themes
1. Retro Technology Preservation - Opportunity for companies to develop new products or services that cater to consumers who are nostalgic for old technologies.
2. Consumer Activism - Opportunity for companies to empower customers to engage in social and environmental causes through their products and services.
3. Digital Aging - Opportunity for companies to develop solutions that address the challenges and opportunities associated with digital technologies rapidly overtaking physical forms of media and communication.
Industry Implications
1. Photography - Photography companies can create new products or services that cater to consumers who prefer analog and instant photography technologies.
2. Consumer Electronics - Tech companies can create innovative solutions that combine the best of analog and digital to appeal to consumers who want the best of both worlds.
3. Social Media - Social media platforms can provide new features that promote meaningful connections between users based on shared interests, values, and causes beyond basic information sharing.