The Long Tail

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Definition: The Long Tail

The Long Tail
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Full Definition of The Long Tail

The Long Tail refers to a frequency distribution in which a large percentage of the points fall in the fringes of the curve. Made popular by Wired writer Chris Anderson, in an internet environment, The Long Tail seeks to capitalize on commerce outside of the mainstream. The contention is that combined, there is more business yet less competition in these peripherals than in the bulk of the distribution.

The idea that every day, more books nobody has ever heard of are sold on Amazon.com than bestsellers illustrates this concept.

The Long Tail can be taken advantage of when products can be stored digitally (such as books that are only printed upon order) instead of stored physically, which take up shelfspace, logistics, shipping, and other costs and resources.

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https://payrollheaven.com/define/the-long-tail/
Modern Language Association (MLA):
The Long Tail. PayrollHeaven.com. Payroll & Accounting Heaven Ltd.
May 18, 2024 https://payrollheaven.com/define/the-long-tail/.
Chicago Manual of Style (CMS):
The Long Tail. PayrollHeaven.com. Payroll & Accounting Heaven Ltd.
https://payrollheaven.com/define/the-long-tail/ (accessed: May 18, 2024).
American Psychological Association (APA):
The Long Tail. PayrollHeaven.com. Retrieved May 18, 2024
, from PayrollHeaven.com website: https://payrollheaven.com/define/the-long-tail/

Definition Sources

Definitions for The Long Tail are sourced/syndicated and enhanced from:

  • A Dictionary of Economics (Oxford Quick Reference)
  • Oxford Dictionary Of Accounting
  • Oxford Dictionary Of Business & Management

This glossary post was last updated: 29th March, 2020 | 0 Views.