System Upgrades
Feb 12,2008
Hello again, this week's topic is CDJapan's new, upgraded server.
As of February 8, 2008 CDJapan is pleased to announce that we've completed upgrades to our server hardware and software. We began the process a couple of weeks ago, so you may have noticed faster page loads and improved search speeds from roughly the start of this month.
Of course, no change is without its hitches, and we've run into a few while in the process of upgrading. You may have noticed problems with images and logging in to your account last weekend. We sincerely apologize for any trouble this may have caused you and we believe we've solved the problems in our server.
In our search to provide the best shopping experience for you, we'd like to know what your experiences with the site have been like lately. Do you find CDJapan faster than before? Have you encountered any problems that aren't listed above? We'd like to hear whatever you have to say, so please leave a comment below.
Furthermore, now that we've got a speedy new system behind the site, we're free to improve site functions in a number of other ways. If there's anything you'd like to see at CDJapan, please leave a comment below to tell us!
Once again, on behalf of the entire CDJapan staff, thank you for remaining patient during our server upgrade process and we look forward to bringing you an even better site in the future.
-Dan
As of February 8, 2008 CDJapan is pleased to announce that we've completed upgrades to our server hardware and software. We began the process a couple of weeks ago, so you may have noticed faster page loads and improved search speeds from roughly the start of this month.
Of course, no change is without its hitches, and we've run into a few while in the process of upgrading. You may have noticed problems with images and logging in to your account last weekend. We sincerely apologize for any trouble this may have caused you and we believe we've solved the problems in our server.
In our search to provide the best shopping experience for you, we'd like to know what your experiences with the site have been like lately. Do you find CDJapan faster than before? Have you encountered any problems that aren't listed above? We'd like to hear whatever you have to say, so please leave a comment below.
Furthermore, now that we've got a speedy new system behind the site, we're free to improve site functions in a number of other ways. If there's anything you'd like to see at CDJapan, please leave a comment below to tell us!
Once again, on behalf of the entire CDJapan staff, thank you for remaining patient during our server upgrade process and we look forward to bringing you an even better site in the future.
-Dan
System Upgrades Comments
Definetly faster
I find the site a whole lot faster now! The individual item pages, listing pages and sometimes searches were really slow for me. But now browsing around the site is much more enjoyable. Pages load up almost straight away. Nice job cdjapan staff :)
by Katharine : Feb 12,2008
No problems so far for me! And since I'm here I just wanted to mention that CDJapan has the best customer service people I've ever encountered online! Whether I'm cancelling an order or have a question I always get a quick and helpful reply back. I've been using CDJapan for two years and although I've ordered jrock from a few other places I've never encountered any other place with a website that's so easy to use and customer service that's so completely professional.
by Amy : Feb 13,2008
Overall everything is slightly faster as far as I could see. Enlarging and loading images however is done much faster as previously.
As for changes, hum... not too sure about that. Maybe having the manufacturer/distributor displayed in the product description would be nice. ex: Sony Music, Geneon, Alter, Cospa, Good Smile Company,... (but that won't be possible unless you guys already store that information somewhere in your database. Ah, and not sure if you guys have this or not (maybe I haven't noticed yet) but is there a CDJapan search engine that can be installed in internet browsers like firefox (not sure if IE supports that option)
As for changes, hum... not too sure about that. Maybe having the manufacturer/distributor displayed in the product description would be nice. ex: Sony Music, Geneon, Alter, Cospa, Good Smile Company,... (but that won't be possible unless you guys already store that information somewhere in your database. Ah, and not sure if you guys have this or not (maybe I haven't noticed yet) but is there a CDJapan search engine that can be installed in internet browsers like firefox (not sure if IE supports that option)
by shawurai : Feb 13,2008
Hello again my friend Dan.
After Risako`s adventures I`m back to my favorite store in all Japan.
Well, I can only confirm what has been said by others. Really has very fast and just about 3 or 4 days ago I will try to place an order into my shopping cart but presented a problem and the page delete entire order that I had been planned (JESUS!!Luck that I have a good memory and put back the items deleted). But that has passed, and now everything works perfectly.
And new things on the page...? It's hard,I would like CDJAPAN provide much better the page of the books but you already explained very well the speciality of the store in previous blogs. Maybe I would like to see a promotion of "TRIPLE POINTS" in an order that exceeds 30.000 yens or more(it is just an idea!). Oh! I remember: what happened to the clock that I suggested last year?. Now that you`re free to improve the site I will like to see this...
Take care, tomodachi Dan.
And thank you again for the books.
Happy day of friendship!
After Risako`s adventures I`m back to my favorite store in all Japan.
Well, I can only confirm what has been said by others. Really has very fast and just about 3 or 4 days ago I will try to place an order into my shopping cart but presented a problem and the page delete entire order that I had been planned (JESUS!!Luck that I have a good memory and put back the items deleted). But that has passed, and now everything works perfectly.
And new things on the page...? It's hard,I would like CDJAPAN provide much better the page of the books but you already explained very well the speciality of the store in previous blogs. Maybe I would like to see a promotion of "TRIPLE POINTS" in an order that exceeds 30.000 yens or more(it is just an idea!). Oh! I remember: what happened to the clock that I suggested last year?. Now that you`re free to improve the site I will like to see this...
Take care, tomodachi Dan.
And thank you again for the books.
Happy day of friendship!
by Ken007 : Feb 13,2008
First of all, it's great to hear that most of you aren't having any problems and that whatever problems you may have had are fixed.
shuwarai> We may be able to work out a way to list distributors on the product pages, but I need to confirm with my supervisor (on vacation!) before I go ahead and start work. I don't think we can do everything, but I do know we've got at least 1000 labels registered. As for a browser search bar, no guarantees but I may be able to cook something up ;)
Ken007> Books, unfortunately, look like they're going to be difficult for us carry for the time being, but we are most certainly thinking about it and hopefully we'll be able to carry them in the future.
As for points, that's a good idea and I'll see if we can work out more point promotions (or permanant big-spender promotions) in the future. I don't know if we'll be able to go to triple points, but we should be able to work something out.
And next special feature I'll make sure we have a clock!
shuwarai> We may be able to work out a way to list distributors on the product pages, but I need to confirm with my supervisor (on vacation!) before I go ahead and start work. I don't think we can do everything, but I do know we've got at least 1000 labels registered. As for a browser search bar, no guarantees but I may be able to cook something up ;)
Ken007> Books, unfortunately, look like they're going to be difficult for us carry for the time being, but we are most certainly thinking about it and hopefully we'll be able to carry them in the future.
As for points, that's a good idea and I'll see if we can work out more point promotions (or permanant big-spender promotions) in the future. I don't know if we'll be able to go to triple points, but we should be able to work something out.
And next special feature I'll make sure we have a clock!
by Dan : Feb 13,2008
Come to think of it, I have noticed that your pages are definately loading faster.
As for general improvements, I think it would be good if you could stock more artist merchandise, like T-shirts, cups etc., much in the same way as you do for Malice Mizer and Moi Dix Mois.
CD Japan is one of my favourite online retailers. Keep up the good work!
As for general improvements, I think it would be good if you could stock more artist merchandise, like T-shirts, cups etc., much in the same way as you do for Malice Mizer and Moi Dix Mois.
CD Japan is one of my favourite online retailers. Keep up the good work!
by Bara no Josei : Feb 15,2008
System change?
I was surprised to see that. I didn't notice anything. No problems at all. Everything was looking like before. But, if you say that the pages are suppose to load faster, then, good job with that. :)
by Sebastien : Feb 15,2008
cool color pink^^,
wow nace and better!!
by arnel : Feb 15,2008
Everyone> Thanks again for commenting and I'm glad that everyone's seeing a speed boost!
Bara no Josei> I can tell you that we're most definitely considering increasing the amount of artist goods we carry. However, we're dependant on our distributors, so it's up to them when we'll be able to get more bands online.
Bara no Josei> I can tell you that we're most definitely considering increasing the amount of artist goods we carry. However, we're dependant on our distributors, so it's up to them when we'll be able to get more bands online.
by Dan : Feb 15,2008
Buyer
Hello,My suggestions for improvments.
1. I would like to see the UPC code also known as the bar code with the catalog number. Also, allow it to be searched.
2. I would like to combine orders and move items from one order to another without an authorization being run through every time.
3. Need some type of system or procedure for correcting the spelling of People & Album names.
Thank you.
by Bill : Feb 15,2008
CDJapan ROCK!
Hello cdjapan~Konnichiwa.Yes i noticed it too! more faster than the previous~Yay!! arigatou gozaimasu~
But there's one thing that i wanted to recommend for u all,dearest cdjapan staff.
When i looked at the website, those icons doesn't have like a Contact Information. Its hard to find your address except in our email inbox. I wish that you all can change this. At least, it will help me and other cash via register mail user to check back whether the mailing address are correct or not.
That's all~ <3333 Happy Valentines Day Koibitos!! aka Cdjapan!!! love the new layout.. hearts everywhere and its PINK! 8D
by Nurfathiah : Feb 16,2008
Hi guys, thanks for the comments,
Nurfathiah> You can find contact information at the bottom of our "About CDJapan" page linked at the bottom of every page on the site. I'll talk to our team to see if we can put a link in an easier to find place though.
http://www.cdjapan.co.jp/help/about_cdjapan.html
Bill> I'll go by question so,
1) I'll see what we can do but bar codes may prove to be difficult. We don't receive codes from our manufacturers.
2) I believe there is a security reason for why we require authorization on order merges, but we might be able to waive it for frequent customers. I'll talk to our support team after the weekend to be sure.
3) This is something we are definitely thinking about, but will take us a while to develop. Don't expect a complete solution soon, but maybe a stopgap like a "Submit errors to this product page" link on each page until then. Does that work for you?
Nurfathiah> You can find contact information at the bottom of our "About CDJapan" page linked at the bottom of every page on the site. I'll talk to our team to see if we can put a link in an easier to find place though.
http://www.cdjapan.co.jp/help/about_cdjapan.html
Bill> I'll go by question so,
1) I'll see what we can do but bar codes may prove to be difficult. We don't receive codes from our manufacturers.
2) I believe there is a security reason for why we require authorization on order merges, but we might be able to waive it for frequent customers. I'll talk to our support team after the weekend to be sure.
3) This is something we are definitely thinking about, but will take us a while to develop. Don't expect a complete solution soon, but maybe a stopgap like a "Submit errors to this product page" link on each page until then. Does that work for you?
by Dan : Feb 16,2008
Cleaning up
Hey I love your site. The only thing i could think of would be to maybe clean up some out of print titles. For instance a band like like Phantasmagoria has ALOT of cds and dvds that are out of print. Why not delete these from the list. It would make the listings for whats available much cleaner and less cluttered. Also, when i search once and a while ill get two listings for the same band. For instance 12012, ill search and get 2 listings. One will have most of there stuff, but the other is some of there very first cds LONG out of print. I think it would make looking at the listings for a band or series much easier to read. Thanks - Rob
by Rob : Feb 18,2008
I agree with Rob. Searching for some items can give long lists of results with many Out of Print titles. I wouldn't go as far as to permanently deleting them from the database as some might want to search for the titles elsewhere and use the information (print date, catalog number, ...) from CDJapan as a basis to search for that one Out of Stock item.
Maybe having a small switchable option like, "Don't show Out of Print items" could be included??
Maybe having a small switchable option like, "Don't show Out of Print items" could be included??
by shawurai : Feb 18,2008
Hi Rob, great to hear. As for your suggestions.
Out-of-print items) I've actually brought this up to our system team before and they told me it would have to wait until we upgrade our search system. I completely agree that having out-of-stock items makes it difficult to search, so as soon as we upgrade our search functions (this may be a while) I'll make sure that searching in out-of-print items is a selectable option and not the default.
Multiple artists) This is another problem that I've been told will take until we upgrade the search functions. Right now we do artist search by artist code, so if the artist has two listings you get two results (this is particularly the case for V-kei bands that go from indie to major). There's a whole string of reasons why I'm told we can't get rid of the old numbers, so unfortunately this will have to wait until we can make our search system ignore them.
So, sorry I can't be much help right now, but in the future these problems should be sorted out.
Out-of-print items) I've actually brought this up to our system team before and they told me it would have to wait until we upgrade our search system. I completely agree that having out-of-stock items makes it difficult to search, so as soon as we upgrade our search functions (this may be a while) I'll make sure that searching in out-of-print items is a selectable option and not the default.
Multiple artists) This is another problem that I've been told will take until we upgrade the search functions. Right now we do artist search by artist code, so if the artist has two listings you get two results (this is particularly the case for V-kei bands that go from indie to major). There's a whole string of reasons why I'm told we can't get rid of the old numbers, so unfortunately this will have to wait until we can make our search system ignore them.
So, sorry I can't be much help right now, but in the future these problems should be sorted out.
by Dan : Feb 18,2008
^^and shawurai too! You snuck in there as I was posting.
by Dan : Feb 18,2008
Suggestion
Hey.I think a good tool for the site would be a "price" search option. For example, when you type into the search bar something you want to search, you could find the cheapest thing.
Also, maybe a link to find all items that are listen on CDJapan "Under 1000 yen" or "Under 500 yen". You know?
Thanks.
by Trevor. : Feb 19,2008
Well Trevor the cheapest item already exists. After you've searched for something you can organize the list by "Price: Lowest First".
Well at least part of you request is granted I guess.
Well at least part of you request is granted I guess.
by shawurai : Feb 19,2008
Hi Trevor and thanks again shawurai,
As for your question, as shawurai says, you can reorder any item search by price using the reorganize box. It doesn't appear for artist searches, but any other search option on our site will display the reorganization menu on the right side of the results page. You can also reorganize items listed in an artists complete listings page like the one below by using the same function (listed just above the product listing).
http://www.cdjapan.co.jp/list_from_code_banner.html?key=259698
As for listing all items at a certain price, I've been told that unfortunately our system isn't set up for that right now, so that will also have to wait until we upgrade our search system.
Thanks for the comments!
As for your question, as shawurai says, you can reorder any item search by price using the reorganize box. It doesn't appear for artist searches, but any other search option on our site will display the reorganization menu on the right side of the results page. You can also reorganize items listed in an artists complete listings page like the one below by using the same function (listed just above the product listing).
http://www.cdjapan.co.jp/list_from_code_banner.html?key=259698
As for listing all items at a certain price, I've been told that unfortunately our system isn't set up for that right now, so that will also have to wait until we upgrade our search system.
Thanks for the comments!
by Dan : Feb 19,2008
I noticed that you added lots of items (T-shirts, jackets, etc.) to the "Goods" section of your Japanese website (Neowing), but those items aren't on CDJapan yet. So, could you add those items to CDJapan?
Thank you.
Thank you.
by Tokumei Kibou : Feb 20,2008
Tokumei Kibou> First of all, I apologize for not getting back to you sooner!
As for your question, shimatta, you noticed! We're actually in the process of bringing the entire goods section over to CDJapan right now. We don't get English data from any of our manufacturers, so the site will be up once we finish translating the website and product data. Hang in there, it should be coming in a month or so!
As for your question, shimatta, you noticed! We're actually in the process of bringing the entire goods section over to CDJapan right now. We don't get English data from any of our manufacturers, so the site will be up once we finish translating the website and product data. Hang in there, it should be coming in a month or so!
by Dan : Feb 21,2008
Suggestion
I think that it would be easier to complete the buying process for customers if all the items which have bonus extras for their first press editions to be listed right when the item is posted during pre-order period. I've noticed that with some cd's that the "first press available" button is missing but it shows up later on, and by then the first press is already sold out. As well, it would help if you would list what the exact item is (ie. poster, sticker, etc.) instead of just saying "special feature/bonus available". Other than that, everything else is running smoothly and keep up the great work CDjapan!
by wohjai : Feb 23,2008
IN THE POINT!!
I totally agree with our friend wojhai. I just have a very serious problem when I try to put on my last order the regular version of Cafe Buono CD. I ask the support team which was the first press of this CD to see which of the 2 versions pick and never answered the question. I wait approximately 8 days and the first press was SOLD OUT. I had to order the other option and for my bad luck 1 day after, this version was totally SOLD OUT despite that when I ordered was still in stock. Try to replace the other version and my order was entered in shipping process = Very late.., lost 2 versions and now I am very angry. It is not possible to do so expect one this way for a simple answer and what I regret most is that this is the second time the support team failed me. NOT FAIR!!! This is a complaint that I would never have wanted to do, but necessary for the situation. Sorry Dan to use your blog for this.
by Ken007 : Feb 23,2008
Another Suggestion
I have another way around ken007's previous suggestion of tripling points (30,000 yen might be a bit of a drag). I think it would be absolutely AMAZING if CDjapan offers free shipping to international customers, as some other online vendors by now offer free shipping to attract customers. I read somewhere on your NeoWing site something about free shipping so why not offer that too for Cdjapan. Maybe something like spend 3000 yen and you get free shipping. I guarantee sales for Cdjapan will increase significantly because sometimes the difference in shipping fees becomes the deciding factor of where a customer decides to order their stuff.Come on Dan, spread the word to your bosses and we'll love ya for it :)
by wohjai : Feb 24,2008
I don't agree wohjai. Free shipping is indeed offered on some sites like Amazon.co.jp, but only for domestic shipping. Some low cost shipping methods "could" be used for free international shipping, but you can't expect CDJapan to offer free shipping for all methods they have and definitely not for a 3000 Yen order (I think you meant to write 30000 Yen). If CDJapan was to offer free shipping for one of their low cost options you might risk getting your items damaged. I'm sure that's a trouble many don't want to get involved with and prefer spending more money on a better shipping method (like EMS) instead of a free option using a low cost shipping method. In my opinion a better system with points and/or bigger coupons (like 750 Yen or 1000 Yen coupons) for regular customers is a better solution as you can always trade those more efficiently on orders you like and by doing so reducing the shipping costs for those orders.
by shawurai : Feb 24,2008
Well it was just a suggestion Shawurai, the least you'll get with free shipping would be registered air mail and I've never had problems with that. Companies like YesAsia do offer free shipping for international customers. And I did not mean 30000 yen, I said 3000...okay maybe 5000 yen sounds more reasonable, but definitely not 30000 yen for free shipping. That's just outrageous when you have YesAsia offering free shipping to North American customers with a minimal purchase of only $39 US (4000 yen?). Now if you're asking for 30000 yen ($280 USD) as a minimum, how do you compete that against YesAsia's minimum of $39 USD? Like I said, this is only a suggestion but the fact is that Cdjapan's shipping costs are one of the highest. Comparably with www.hmv.co.jp, they offer much cheaper shipping costs abroad and they use the same EMS shipping method. So although some people prefer to pay more, I think that at least free shipping should be offered as an option to those who are willing to take the risk.
by wohjai : Feb 24,2008
Hey guys,
Sorry it's taken me so long to get back to you, I've been away from the keyboard helping my friend move over the weekend. This is going to be a long post so It'll probably take a couple of comments before I'm completely done.
Sorry it's taken me so long to get back to you, I've been away from the keyboard helping my friend move over the weekend. This is going to be a long post so It'll probably take a couple of comments before I'm completely done.
by Dan : Feb 24,2008
wohjai> I'll answer your question backwards because your second question is easier for me to respond to. We often don't get details on first-press bonuses until well after product data comes in, so the default translation our system uses before we translate it is "special feature/bonus available." However, this is definitely something we need to work on, so let me apologize for this and we'll make sure the first press bonuses are more clearly translated in the future.
As for your first question, could I trouble you to clarify what you mean? Where are you referring to (product info pages, top pages, etc)? Also, how long is the lag between when item shows up and when it finally lists "first press available"? I won't know the answer until I know more info, but off the top of my head I'd guess this is due to a delay in receiving info from our manufacturers. Regardless, I know that having accurate first press info is a big point for our site, so I'd absolutely like to work this ...
As for your first question, could I trouble you to clarify what you mean? Where are you referring to (product info pages, top pages, etc)? Also, how long is the lag between when item shows up and when it finally lists "first press available"? I won't know the answer until I know more info, but off the top of my head I'd guess this is due to a delay in receiving info from our manufacturers. Regardless, I know that having accurate first press info is a big point for our site, so I'd absolutely like to work this ...
by Dan : Feb 24,2008
Ken007> Wow, I'm sad to hear about your trouble. I'll definitely tell our support team about your problem, and ask why they haven't responded to you. For reference, we don't have support people in over the weekend, so if it's only been a couple of days and you enquired during the weekend (Japan time) that's probably the problem--but since you've waited at least eight days it's probably an error on our part. When did you contact them, by the way?
Also, what was your first problem with our support team? I'll make sure to scold them once everyone's back from the weekend!
And, completely unrelated, but starting with our idol DVD sale page I've had our web design team add the time and date in Japanese time to our sale pages. ;)
Also, what was your first problem with our support team? I'll make sure to scold them once everyone's back from the weekend!
And, completely unrelated, but starting with our idol DVD sale page I've had our web design team add the time and date in Japanese time to our sale pages. ;)
by Dan : Feb 24,2008
wohjai vs. shuwurai> We actually considered free international shipping around the same time Neowing went free, and ultimately it didn't work out for a number of reasons. Mainly, unlike Amazon and YesAsia, people seem to praise us the most for our shipping methods. Though expensive, we tend to get things to people faster and in better shape thanks to EMS. Amazon doesn't use EMS and I've seen plenty of people complain about that fact on their websites. YesAsia does allow EMS, but their free shipping is, I think SAL (right?). If we went free for our cheaper shipping options, we feared people would be drawn to the cheap shipping option and ultimately be left with the impression that slower, less safe service would provide.
(Continued)
(Continued)
by Dan : Feb 24,2008
However, while free shipping is out of the question, how would you guys feel about free shipping upgrades? There's a whole ton of math I'll have to do before I present reasonable numbers here, but for an example, say all orders over 5000yen qualify for free upgrades to EMS shipping. You'd still have to pay the SAL fee, but you'd get it quicker and in better shape.
And of course, coupons and point enhancements are still definitely under consideration. If you run a website, you'll be pleased to know that our affiliate program is definitely coming soon. You'll be able to use that to get further discounts ;)
P.S., this blog post is still pulling in a bunch of comments so I'm going to extend the posting deadline for a couple of weeks at least.
And of course, coupons and point enhancements are still definitely under consideration. If you run a website, you'll be pleased to know that our affiliate program is definitely coming soon. You'll be able to use that to get further discounts ;)
P.S., this blog post is still pulling in a bunch of comments so I'm going to extend the posting deadline for a couple of weeks at least.
by Dan : Feb 24,2008
Dan> Well I guess there's no way around it if that's the case regarding free shipping. Now clarifying my first question, I was referring to the product pages. Now forgive me as I am not exactly sure about the time of that lag. I was trying to order SID's Sentimental Macchiatto but the "first press available" button was never present during pre-order period for at least a week when I checked. And then on the day of the release, the first press was already sold out. So this delay was a problem that I've recently experienced that needs to be fixed.
On top of that regarding the default translation of "special feature/bonus available" for products, that SID album has been released for almost a week now and even though sold out, it still doesn't show the exact bonus extra so I think it's just a matter of getting staff to update pages more frequently.
On top of that regarding the default translation of "special feature/bonus available" for products, that SID album has been released for almost a week now and even though sold out, it still doesn't show the exact bonus extra so I think it's just a matter of getting staff to update pages more frequently.
by wohjai : Feb 25,2008
One more thing. I've experienced in the past where some singles came with bonus extras but there was never anything mentioned on that product page regarding bonus extras. Now I was aware that there was a promo poster available for that single through other people selling it off Live Journal but I didn't know that it came as a bonus extra with the purchase of the single until I had to email your staff and ask about it or else I would have ordered it earlier. So it would make it much easier if you could release this information for all the discs as it will save time for both CDjapan and its customers. Sorry, but I'm just a huge jrock poster nut and these things are #1 priority! If CDjapan didn't offer bonus extras, I would seriously consider creating a page selling v-kei posters :)
(Continued)
(Continued)
by wohjai : Feb 25,2008
IN THE POINT 2
Very well Dan, I clarifies a little more the matter. This is not a weekend problem because since last January 26 will send your support team 2 concerns, not responded, I came back to put the message on February 02 and to date: NONE. The second message I will sent on February 12(3 questions), not responded, I put a forwarded message on February 16 and to date: NONE. In summary: 5 questions without answers; I don't know what happens to your team, but now it's too late because that CD really interesting me. Only have an option and that is if by some "magic trick" you could incorporate the regular version in my order BEFORE left. If it could be: thanks so much because I don't think putting a new order only for a single item. This will be RIDICULOUS.Totally apart: Thank you for the time and date in your idol DVD sale page. I will check it out now!
by Ken007 : Feb 25,2008
First of all, I'm terribly sorry it's taken me so long to respond, I was out yesterday with a cold and there was something weird with the blog where I couldn't see responses after #30 from my home computer. It should be fixed for now.
wohjai> It took visits to several sites but I think I've got it now. You're either referring to the poster included with the type C edition of the album or the cards which are included with types A and B. We didn't receive any information on the cards (I found this through Amazon and confirmed through the official SID site), which is why that information wasn't listed on our site, but as for the poster I'm going to have to look into that more because the problem appears to be deeper than I thought. I'll respond again when I have more info.
(Continued)
wohjai> It took visits to several sites but I think I've got it now. You're either referring to the poster included with the type C edition of the album or the cards which are included with types A and B. We didn't receive any information on the cards (I found this through Amazon and confirmed through the official SID site), which is why that information wasn't listed on our site, but as for the poster I'm going to have to look into that more because the problem appears to be deeper than I thought. I'll respond again when I have more info.
(Continued)
by Dan : Feb 26,2008
But you are absolutely correct that usually the "Special Features/Bonus Available" problem is due to a lack of updating. There are some problems with the translation team receiving info after an item's entered our database, so I'm going to have to look into ways to solve that, but in the meantime I'll make sure all the new product info we receive each day (preorders) has accurate bonus info entered. Also, if you see an item on our site that should have bonus info but doesn't have it listed, or if you see an item with inaccurate information, you can leave a comment in the customer review section. We read those every day we're here, and if we can find the correct information, we make sure to update the product pages.
by Dan : Feb 26,2008
Ken007> Once again, I'm sorry you've had this experience. I talked with our support team (they should be contacting you today!), but it looks like we haven't received any email from your regular address in a while. We'll see what we can do on our end, but in the meantime, did you use a different email address, and if you have a copy of your email saved somewhere, could you confirm that address you sent it to was entered correctly (info@cdjapan.co.jp).
And if you've encountered trouble with the idol sale page, sorry! We ran into problems with PayPal regarding our idol pages over the weekend, so we have to take it down until we've got this all worked out.
And if you've encountered trouble with the idol sale page, sorry! We ran into problems with PayPal regarding our idol pages over the weekend, so we have to take it down until we've got this all worked out.
by Dan : Feb 26,2008
Update on SID: after investigating our database and grilling our system team, I've discovered two things. First, I still don't know exactly why our system didn't display the "First Press Available" icon when the album first came in, but information about a "First press bonus" was included when the album was initially entered in our system (at that point bonus details were undetermined so the only translation available would have been "special feature/bonus available"). However, the album information came in right around the time we started distinguishing between external and internal first press bonuses in our database, so there may have been a problem during development that had caused our system to not display the icon for SID.
by Dan : Feb 27,2008
The other thing I discovered was that the details for the bonus in our database were undetermined up until February 13 (one week before release!) when one of our Japanese support staff updated the Japanese page but failed to notify the translation team of the change. Likely, the manufacturer forgot to notify us of the change, and the Japanese info was only updated after a Japanese customer enquired about it. This is obviously something we need to solve, but unfortunately will take some time to fix.
However, while we are still weak against unannounced changes, we began entering bonus details for every product on our site on Tuesday. Hopefully that should take care of some of the confusion.
However, while we are still weak against unannounced changes, we began entering bonus details for every product on our site on Tuesday. Hopefully that should take care of some of the confusion.
by Dan : Feb 27,2008
I noticed that the product pages changed a bit. When browsing the list of products from a series there aren't an separations between the types (DVDs, CDs, GOODs,..) anymore. Is this part of an upcoming upgrade. I found this new listing a bit more confusing...
by shawurai : Feb 28,2008
Oh man, the SID album came with a poster for jacket C? I'm so disappointed...I would've definitely ordered it if I knew it came with a poster. Yes, I emailed your staff Feb. 15, 5 days before its release and they told me about the cards, but they never told me about the poster, even though jacket C first press was already sold out.
On a side note, "Miyavi - This iz The Japanese Kabuki Rock" has been on sale for 2 weeks now since I ordered it and the first press is still available. Is this a result that it's not doing well or is it because you guys have an abundance in the bonus extra stickers since it's still #1 on your daily chart? Just in general, how many posters do you carry for CD's before they sell out? For example, the GazettE - Guren single, about how many posters did you carry in total for that single?
On a side note, "Miyavi - This iz The Japanese Kabuki Rock" has been on sale for 2 weeks now since I ordered it and the first press is still available. Is this a result that it's not doing well or is it because you guys have an abundance in the bonus extra stickers since it's still #1 on your daily chart? Just in general, how many posters do you carry for CD's before they sell out? For example, the GazettE - Guren single, about how many posters did you carry in total for that single?
by wohjai : Feb 29,2008
Apology received!!
Hi again my friend Dan.I communicate with you to thank for the tremendous efforts made to find my lost emails. I had received the message from Toshi today and explain very well the situation. I am very happy to hear that.
Thanks to all and excuse me by anger.
Totally apart, one great mistery: I have Utada Hikaru CD "Heart Station" in my saved items page but when I try to move to shopping cart a message appear: "No items were found matching your query". My great dude is: how is possible this if the item is not OUT OF PRINT and more curious I ckeck UtadaĦs items and the album don`t appear in the list. What happened? I`m confused...
by Ken007 : Feb 29,2008
shuwurai> I had actually not noticed that so I'm glad you mentioned it. Our system team states that it's part of a new feature they are developing, and that the page that you see now won't be around for very long, so hang in there. It might help to select the media type you want to view from the menu (it should say something like "Media Type: CDA - DVD - VHS - Collectibles - All" towards the top of the page).
by Dan : Feb 29,2008
wohjai> I can't give out poster totals, but I can give you an idea how this all works. The "First Press" bonus is misleading in that it doesn't really apply to customers but to us; we receive posters (or other first press items) for every CD we order from the manufacturer by the "initial pressing" date (usually a couple of weeks before the album goes on sale). We base our order on sales, but also try to order enough to keep the first press bonuses on hand a little while past the official release date.
(Continued)
(Continued)
by Dan : Feb 29,2008
This is the ideal way of doing things, which is exactly how Miyavi's working--he's selling great we've just ordered enough first press editions to last this long (although, Meev's definitely going to sell out soon). However, some artists (particularly Johnny's artists) set limits on how many first press editions we can order, which is why they sell out so quick. In other cases, like say for the SID Type C edition, the order deadline was right after the album was announced. Unfortunately, at that time we didn't even have details on the what the first press would be, and since regular editions always sell way worse than the limited editions with DVDs, we only ordered a few of them (imagine if we had ordered a ton of the type C and the first press bonus turned out to be a plain white fan club postcard or something). A similar thing happened with the GazettE's "Guren."
by Dan : Feb 29,2008
Ken007> Hi Ken007, Glad to see you're back! Don't worry about being angry; you had all the reason in the world. I apologize for the fact that you had a to wait a month just to get a response from us, and while I think the system problems were unavoidable, I feel terrible that they caused you such hardship and that it took us so long to fix them and respond to you. Believe it or not, you've also helped us solve a problem we didn't know we had.
. . . actually twice ;) It turns out someone in the office had edited the information for the Hikaru Utada album which caused it to drop from CDJapan. No one had told us until you mentioned it. Anyway, Hikki's back online so you *should* be able to add "Heart Station" to your cart. If you still have trouble though, please write here and I'll see if maybe there's some other problem.
Oh and completely unrelated, but while we still don't have any Risako Sugaya books, we did just get in an Eri Kamei photo book :)
. . . actually twice ;) It turns out someone in the office had edited the information for the Hikaru Utada album which caused it to drop from CDJapan. No one had told us until you mentioned it. Anyway, Hikki's back online so you *should* be able to add "Heart Station" to your cart. If you still have trouble though, please write here and I'll see if maybe there's some other problem.
Oh and completely unrelated, but while we still don't have any Risako Sugaya books, we did just get in an Eri Kamei photo book :)
by Dan : Feb 29,2008
I just came back from work. What a tremendous week!!
All kinds of unexpected things happend. For example, PayPal became unavailable for a few days. Related to it, Idols caterogy is closed at least for now (we'll make announcements with more information in due course).
At the same time, it was a truly remarkable and rewarding week.
Ken007 has kindly helped us discover an issue that we weren't even aware existed with our mailserver, and we made a change right away to prevent similar problems in the future.
Also, so many people have posted meaningful comments, full of great suggestions!
Reading them all, I am so proud to be a part of CDJapan! Without customers like you, we won't be where we are today!
So, Dan, let's definitely continue with our efforts to make as many of them come true as possible! It may take time, but I'm so pround to work with a great colleague like you, and we'll be sure to work out lots of great things together. Otsukarasama!
Thank you everyone! Have a great weekend!!
All kinds of unexpected things happend. For example, PayPal became unavailable for a few days. Related to it, Idols caterogy is closed at least for now (we'll make announcements with more information in due course).
At the same time, it was a truly remarkable and rewarding week.
Ken007 has kindly helped us discover an issue that we weren't even aware existed with our mailserver, and we made a change right away to prevent similar problems in the future.
Also, so many people have posted meaningful comments, full of great suggestions!
Reading them all, I am so proud to be a part of CDJapan! Without customers like you, we won't be where we are today!
So, Dan, let's definitely continue with our efforts to make as many of them come true as possible! It may take time, but I'm so pround to work with a great colleague like you, and we'll be sure to work out lots of great things together. Otsukarasama!
Thank you everyone! Have a great weekend!!
by Toshi Makiya : Mar 01,2008
PART No.1
Hello friend Dan. Oh! and Toshi-san in the blog(for second time).
Yes.. I had hardship in these past days but happy to help you solve the problem (as a guinea pig I am not bad!!).
On the other hand, Hikki`s problem is solved now thanks to your efforts so don`t worry Dan! The only situation left is the Idol DVD Page. GAMBATTE!!
My extremely limited Yuri Kawase DVD is at risk to be running out before March 17.
Continued...?
by Ken007 : Mar 01,2008
PART No.2
Ah! and this notice of Eri Kamei photobook is great: 2 postcards with message?, and in a special case?, for a photobook? God! CDJAPAN is the best because you fulfilled the promise to be available photobooks at future. So, I ask:
1- Can I put the book in one single order like calendars or can be mixed with the CD`s and DVD`s?.
2- It`s the first photobook at CDJAPAN?
3- Risako`s books are expensive Dan, but if you could obtain the special edition that leaves next March 31: PERFECT(I will sacrifice my wallet).
At the end is very nice to see the friendship that exists between you guys! So I also would like to work closely with you and be part to CDJ!
ForDan: What is the meaning of: Akemashite Omedeto Gozaimasu.
ForToshi: The same but for: Otsukarasama!
by Ken007 : Mar 01,2008
Dan, I forgot to address your previous suggestion of having free shipping upgrades from SAL to EMS. I think that would be a great idea and many people would very much appreciate it. I hope that you can make it happen.
Regarding this new affiliate program, please tell me about it and what it's about. I'm curious to find out.
Something totally unrelated, but I'd like to ask you or anyone if they know where I can buy online a large B2-size poster of Kurosaki Ichigo?
Regarding this new affiliate program, please tell me about it and what it's about. I'm curious to find out.
Something totally unrelated, but I'd like to ask you or anyone if they know where I can buy online a large B2-size poster of Kurosaki Ichigo?
by wohjai : Mar 01,2008
One more issue. I've noticed that in your apparel page that some new arrival items for S.P.R. have gone missing. Two of them I've noticed have been removed. Many other items that I've either seen or ordered from the past has also been removed. Why is that? Were they sold out? Even though if they were, I think it would be nice to keep them on the page for reference.
by wohjai : Mar 01,2008
Ken007> By question:
1) We're out for the weekend so I'll have to confirm later, but I think you can combine books with other items.
2) We've had a couple of books but this is the first Hello! Pro book. I think we've received a book for the anime "sketch" and maybe one more anime.
3) We only get what's added to Neowing so no guarantees on Risako, but I will keep you notified if we do get one in! I should warn you that the manufacturer is sort of difficult to stock however.
Bonus> "Akemashite Omedeto Gozaimasu" means "Happy New Year"!
Thanks for posting!
1) We're out for the weekend so I'll have to confirm later, but I think you can combine books with other items.
2) We've had a couple of books but this is the first Hello! Pro book. I think we've received a book for the anime "sketch" and maybe one more anime.
3) We only get what's added to Neowing so no guarantees on Risako, but I will keep you notified if we do get one in! I should warn you that the manufacturer is sort of difficult to stock however.
Bonus> "Akemashite Omedeto Gozaimasu" means "Happy New Year"!
Thanks for posting!
by Dan : Mar 01,2008
wohjai> Thanks for the response! I'd also like to see this shipping thing work so I'll work up a presentation once I can get the specifics worked out. As for the affiliate program, I can't give out details until we officially launch, but I can tell you that we're juuuust finishing up testing so it shouldn't be more than a month or two at the most (famous last words).
Not sure about B2 but I found a couple of places abroad when I googled for "Bleach Posters"
http://www.animecastle.com/c-19503-bleach-posters.aspx
http://toycup.com/bleachposter.html
I've never heard of either place, so I can't vouch for them, but after searching a number of Japanese places that's about all I could find. Amazon.co.jp has a 300-piece Kurosaki Ichigo jigsaw puzzle if that works for you:
http://www.amazon.co.jp/dp/B000N3ALMQ/
Not sure about B2 but I found a couple of places abroad when I googled for "Bleach Posters"
http://www.animecastle.com/c-19503-bleach-posters.aspx
http://toycup.com/bleachposter.html
I've never heard of either place, so I can't vouch for them, but after searching a number of Japanese places that's about all I could find. Amazon.co.jp has a 300-piece Kurosaki Ichigo jigsaw puzzle if that works for you:
http://www.amazon.co.jp/dp/B000N3ALMQ/
by wohjai : Mar 01,2008
As for Sex Pot, we remove items that sell out, and since many Sex Pot goods are limited prints, sometimes they sell out right after we get them on the site. I'll have to ask someone on Monday to be sure, but I think we're required by SP to remove the items, so it might not be possible to keep them up after they sell out.
However, if there's anything in particular you're looking for, you can list it here and I'll look into it on Monday.
However, if there's anything in particular you're looking for, you can list it here and I'll look into it on Monday.
by Dan : Mar 01,2008
That post in between was actually me, sorry, I had wohjai on the mind ;)
by Dan : Mar 01,2008
Oh! Dan, don`t worry man.
I already have the 3 photobooks of Risako-chan(thanks to your suggestions online). The comment was directed only to the special issue which comes to the end of the month. Thanks anyway.
But now I would like to know if there is any place online that have on sale "trading cards" of Hello Project groups?. I only obtain one in my country and have the seal of UFA(Up Front Agency), so I suppose that I get more in any side?
I already have the 3 photobooks of Risako-chan(thanks to your suggestions online). The comment was directed only to the special issue which comes to the end of the month. Thanks anyway.
But now I would like to know if there is any place online that have on sale "trading cards" of Hello Project groups?. I only obtain one in my country and have the seal of UFA(Up Front Agency), so I suppose that I get more in any side?
by Ken007 : Mar 02,2008
Hmm, can't seem to find much online except for this site:
http://www.helloshop.jp/
But even they don't look like they stock the trading cards and I'm not sure if they ship abroad. I'll see if we can get something in stock (I sort of doubt it though), but other than that I've got nothing.
It might be that these cards are only sold as bonuses for CDs and other items, in which case you might have to go through an auction site.
http://www.helloshop.jp/
But even they don't look like they stock the trading cards and I'm not sure if they ship abroad. I'll see if we can get something in stock (I sort of doubt it though), but other than that I've got nothing.
It might be that these cards are only sold as bonuses for CDs and other items, in which case you might have to go through an auction site.
by Dan : Mar 02,2008
Hello Dan.
Just wanted to say thanks and keep up the great work!
By the way, I ordered the Eri Kamei photobook you guys listed.
Now I won't need to travel about 2 hours to and fro to my local Japanese bookstore :D
Just wanted to say thanks and keep up the great work!
By the way, I ordered the Eri Kamei photobook you guys listed.
Now I won't need to travel about 2 hours to and fro to my local Japanese bookstore :D
by Roy : Mar 02,2008
Dan, is it possible to include sizing (Length and Width) for S.P.R. pants in North American standards? ie. 30 W/32 L, etc.
I find it much easier to understand if the sizing was in those units rather than in centimeters. Maybe you could include both?
I find it much easier to understand if the sizing was in those units rather than in centimeters. Maybe you could include both?
by wohjai : Mar 03,2008
Ken007>Just confirmed, you don't have to order photobooks seperately, you can order them with CDs or whatever. Also, from Makiya-san, "Otsukaresama" doesn't have any real meaning but it's sort of like "good job" or "congratulations on finishing." It's something you say after someone else has finished their job or done something for you.
Roy>Thanks! Glad you like the books.
wohjai>Unfortunately, there's no real systematic way to for us to switch it over to North American sizes. Individual sizes aren't split up in the database, so we can't process them like we do product prices.
Roy>Thanks! Glad you like the books.
wohjai>Unfortunately, there's no real systematic way to for us to switch it over to North American sizes. Individual sizes aren't split up in the database, so we can't process them like we do product prices.
by Dan : Mar 03,2008
Thank you for the confirmation of the books friend Dan.
Also thanks to Toshi from me to expand my japanese vocabulary.
In addition, do you explain me what is "Gekiharo" series. I know Berryz Kobo had participation in theatrical comedies: Where is my body? and Time slip to Kengai! but I don`t find the first release. Do you know the name of this?
Also thanks to Toshi from me to expand my japanese vocabulary.
In addition, do you explain me what is "Gekiharo" series. I know Berryz Kobo had participation in theatrical comedies: Where is my body? and Time slip to Kengai! but I don`t find the first release. Do you know the name of this?
by Ken007 : Mar 04,2008
Hi Ken007,
The Gekiharo series is Hello! Project's series of theatrical plays ("Geki" means "Theater" in Japanese). As for the Berryz Kobo releases:
Edo kara Chakushin!? - Time Slip to Kengai!
http://www.cdjapan.co.jp/detailview.html?KEY=PKBP-5059
Reverse! Watashi no Karada Doko Desu ka?
http://www.cdjapan.co.jp/detailview.html?KEY=PKBP-5094
The Gekiharo series is Hello! Project's series of theatrical plays ("Geki" means "Theater" in Japanese). As for the Berryz Kobo releases:
Edo kara Chakushin!? - Time Slip to Kengai!
http://www.cdjapan.co.jp/detailview.html?KEY=PKBP-5059
Reverse! Watashi no Karada Doko Desu ka?
http://www.cdjapan.co.jp/detailview.html?KEY=PKBP-5094
by Dan : Mar 04,2008
Dan, Just wondering if the Mirror Ball single comes with any bonus extras?
by wohjai : Mar 05,2008
Unless something shows up out of nowhere, no. We don't have anything listed in our database and neither the official Alice Nine website nor the Alice Nine website "Mirror Ball" special page include any info about a first press bonus (it looks like their selling a limited edition clear file if you by tickets to see "Aquarian Age" at CC Lemon hall though).
by Dan : Mar 05,2008
Oh! Yes!, Yes! Dan. I have these 2 DVD`s from my last order. Thank you for the info anyway.
So, in that case which group of Hello Project were the protagonist at the first release?
So, in that case which group of Hello Project were the protagonist at the first release?
by Ken007 : Mar 05,2008
I believe the main cast for "Edo kara Chakushin!? - Time Slip to Kengai!" is Berryz Kobo but you can see the full cast list here:
http://wiki.theppn.org/Geki_Haro_%22Edo_kara_Chakushin%21%3F
I also found this Geki Haro release from Cute:
http://www.cdjapan.jp/detailview.html?KEY=EPBE-5263
http://wiki.theppn.org/Geki_Haro_%22Edo_kara_Chakushin%21%3F
I also found this Geki Haro release from Cute:
http://www.cdjapan.jp/detailview.html?KEY=EPBE-5263
by Dan : Mar 06,2008
