(11-16-2013, 01:03 AM)hercules21 Wrote: I like this idea in theory. if there is enough demand for a product or service, someone is always willing to figure out a way to make money from it. The grading companies probably already scan cards in some fashion. It's mainly a matter of making it cost effective, one example of which could be additional fees only to those who desire the service and check the box on the submission form. A less desirable example is fee hikes across the board.
After estimating the cost to produce the service, the next hurdle is determining if there is enough demand to make it cost effective. Sure, scanners are cheap, but time is a premium. At 5 cents per card, thats 1000 scans for the price of a $50 scanner, just to give a reference point at one extreme.
I'm no economics major, but I'm not sure adding a product or service automatically means higher prices to the customer. Rather, it could promote competition amongst vendors, somehow driving prices down. Or perhaps prices stay the same, because demand has settled on a comfortable price range, with product quality improving.
In reality, I'm not sure if there is enough demand. Not everyone submits cards for the purpose of selling/trading or showing off pics. Altho probably a large majority. Hell, what do I know.
Having the scans help Beckett and the customers. It gives Beckett a wonderful detailed database of graded cards with scans. Internally, they can track graders and their work easier. For the customers, we get grades and scans. Whether you are selling or keeping, it is nice to have. The scans can be posted here to show fellow collectors before you get the slabs back home.
It is always good to provide valuable services to your customers. It makes them happy and a happy customer does more business, and stays with you.