Revolutionizing Digital
Comic Reading
Revolutionizing Digital
Comic Reading
Standaard Uitgeverij, a Belgian publisher, wanted to explore digital comic distribution. Unlock'd provided development expertise to build a digital platform for their comic catalog.
The platform provides digital access to comic titles through a subscription model. Users can read comics on various devices with features designed for the digital reading experience.
Moving to digital distribution in the publishing industry requires addressing stakeholder questions and validating the business model. Publishers and writers needed to understand the approach and its implications.
We used our six-step framework to validate the concept, address stakeholder concerns, and guide the development from research through launch.
1. IDENTIFY & VALIDATE
Physical comic sales were changing as more readers shifted to digital formats. Our research indicated that Belgian readers showed interest in subscription access to comic catalogs. We explored whether a subscription model could work for Standaard's comic library.
1. IDENTIFY & VALIDATE
Physical comic sales were changing as more readers shifted to digital formats. Our research indicated that Belgian readers showed interest in subscription access to comic catalogs. We explored whether a subscription model could work for Standaard's comic library.
2. IMPACT MAPPING
We mapped how subscription features would support business objectives. A quality reading experience was essential for retention. Content discovery features would help users find titles in the catalog. Each design element was connected to specific user behaviors and business goals.
3. COMPREHENSIVE AUDIT
Publishers and writers had questions about digital distribution and how it would affect existing sales channels. We developed financial models to show potential scenarios and timelines. The analysis helped stakeholders understand the digital approach and make informed decisions about moving forward.
4. INTERACTIVE PROTOTYPING
We built prototypes to demonstrate the reading experience rather than describing it. Testing with readers provided feedback on the digital format. The working prototype helped stakeholders evaluate the concept and informed decisions about development.
5. PLATFORM DEVELOPMENT
We developed and launched the platform with subscription payment processing and content delivery systems. The technical infrastructure was built to handle the catalog and user access. The platform went live with monitoring in place to track performance and usage.
6. CONTINUOUS ITERATION
Usage analytics provided insights into reader behavior, including device preferences and reading patterns. Content recommendation features were refined based on engagement data. The platform continues to be updated based on user feedback and usage metrics.
Using our six-step framework, we addressed stakeholder questions, validated the concept, and developed the digital platform. The result is a subscription-based comic platform that serves Standaard's digital distribution goals.
We developed an architecture that seamlessly integrates multiple technologies to deliver a robust and scalable digital comics platform
The app, built with Flutter, ensures a seamless user experience. Supabase provides robust authentication and allowing easy communication with a .NET backend. This backend manages subscriptions and content delivery, ensuring users always have access to the latest comics
Imagine diving into a digital comic with an experience designed for both phone and tablet users.
On phones, enjoy a picture-by-picture film reel that makes each frame come alive. On tablets, the default mode presents an endless page that scrolls from left to right, simulating the feel of reading a real comic book. This mode includes dynamic zooming animations that focus on key details like explosions or panoramic scenery.
For a traditional reading experience, switch to full-page view similar to a PDF. All modes support pinch-to-zoom and edge-tap navigation, ensuring you stay immersed in the story.
"The collaboration with the team was seamless and the quality of work has set a new standard."
Walter De Roeck
Director IT & Innovation, Standaard Uitgeverij
2,000+ Albums
Leveraging our technical skills and design expertise, we crafted an exceptional user experience.
In collaboration with Standaard Uitgeverij, we developed a scalable and adaptable design system. The mobile app, built with Flutter, allows seamless development and native compilation for both iOS and Android platforms. This ensures a robust, future-proof solution that supports the rapid growth and evolution of the business.
Kan de smartphone de strip redden?
"Met platforms zoals Strips.be krijgt de stripindustrie een nieuwe dynamiek, waarbij toegankelijkheid en digitale innovatie hand in hand gaan."
— De Tijd
Onbeperkt Jommeke en Kiekeboes lezen voor 6,99 euro per maand
"Onze journalist testte het uit en vroeg aan specialist Tim Raats (VUB) of dit kan aanslaan. 'Dit zou weleens veel mensen over de streep kunnen trekken.'"
— Het Laatste Nieuws
Voor €6,99 lees je 2.000 albums
"Standaard Uitgeverij lanceert app voor stripverhalen die de volledige catalogus toegankelijk maakt op je smartphone."
— Gazet van Antwerpen