Institution: UnionJah University Online
Course Title: Digital Download Music
Course Code: UJU-BUSS-MARK-0012
Instructor: [To Be Determined]
Credit Hours: 3
Course Description
Course Description
This course offers a comprehensive deep dive into the entrepreneurial journey of creating and managing an online digital music marketplace with an integrated affiliate marketing program. Drawing inspiration from the “UnionJah Music Hub” business model, students will learn the strategic, operational, technical, and legal aspects necessary to launch a successful platform that empowers independent artists and incentivizes promoters. This course is ideal for aspiring music entrepreneurs, platform developers, and those interested in the economics of the modern music industry.
Learning Objectives
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:
- Formulate a Digital Music Marketplace Business Plan: Develop a structured business plan encompassing mission, vision, products, services, and market analysis.
- Design Core Platform Features: Identify and conceptualize essential functionalities for artist dashboards, affiliate portals, and listener interfaces.
- Understand Digital Music Licensing and Rights: Navigate the complexities of music copyright, licensing, and royalty distribution within a marketplace model.
- Strategize Artist and Affiliate Acquisition: Develop effective strategies for attracting and retaining both independent artists and marketing affiliates.
- Implement Financial Models: Outline key revenue streams, cost structures, and basic financial projections for a digital music business.
- Address Legal and Compliance Requirements: Identify critical legal considerations, including artist agreements, affiliate terms, and data privacy.
- Plan Platform Development and Operations: Outline the technical roadmap for building and maintaining the platform, along often the operational processes for content and payment management.
Target Audience
This course is designed for individuals with an entrepreneurial mindset interested in the music industry, digital platforms, and affiliate marketing. Prior business or technical knowledge is beneficial but not strictly required.
Prerequisites
- General understanding of the digital music landscape.
- Basic business acumen or an eagerness to learn.
- Access to a computer and stable internet connection.
Assessment Methods
- Module Quizzes (20%): Short quizzes on core concepts.
- Business Plan Development (40%): Students will iteratively build sections of their own digital music marketplace business plan throughout the course.
- Platform Feature Mock-up (20%): Design wireframes or mock-ups for key platform components (e.g., an artist upload page, an affiliate dashboard).
- Final Pitch Presentation (20%): Students will present their comprehensive business plan and platform concept.
Resources
- Selected readings on digital business, platform economics, and music industry trends.
- Case studies of successful (and unsuccessful) digital marketplaces.
- Templates for business plans, artist agreements, and affiliate terms.
- Guest speakers from the music tech and startup world (where available).
