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Smartflix.com
Ever since Netflix launched way back in 1997, many companies have tried to copy their business model, most unsuccessfully. It makes sense why they tried to copy them: it really is a great idea. If you're not familiar with Netflix, here's the basic idea: You pay a flat rate per month which entitles you to rent x amount of DVDs at a time (different plans are available). Using their website, you set up a queue of DVDs you want to rent. Netflix then send you the DVDs in the mail, which you can keep as long as you want without fear of late charges. When you finish the movie and want to return the DVD, you put them back in the postage-paid envelope and drop it in the mail. When Netflix receives it, they'll send you the next available movie in your queue. It's very easy and is far superior to driving to a video rental store. In fact, Netflix's success is a large part of the reason why the once ubiquitous video rental store is now an increasingly rarer site.
However, Netflix specializes in entertainment DVDs and only has a few how-to videos. So what if you want to learn how to weld? Or use a biscuit joiner? Or a metal lathe?
You're in luck because a company called Smartflix
noticed the lack how-to DVDs on Netflix and decided to do something about it. Currently, SmartFlix claims to offer almost 5000 how-to DVDs covering a huge range of topics from glass blowing to guitar construction to the basics of bandsaw operation.
Unlike Netflix, they don't offer an unlimited rental period or queue system. Most DVDs are $9.99 (some are more) for a week-long rental, which includes shipping both ways. Smartflix is based out of Massachusetts, so your depending on where you are located, your rentals may take a few days to reach you. Don't worry though-the rental period doesn't start until you receive the DVD.
Smartflix is a great resource if you are trying to master a new skill or just want to learn how to do something interesting.
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