Just because you are first, doesn't mean you win

In the mid-1990s the internet was rapidly entered every home in the USA.  At the core of this new connectivity was CompuServe and AOL, as well as a few other names such as Prodigy.  CompuServe began in 1969 and defined many of the conventions and concepts that we accept today in a connectivity model, however it was AOL that marketed it properly, and built the successful modern business model.  Seeing the possible end of their viability CompuServe decided to try a new, radical idea, with a new online service called WOW.  WOW had it's own application, windows only, and a unique look and feel.  The most innovative concept WOW presented was a flat rate of $17.95 a month for internet service.  This was in a time where the other providers, CompuServe included, charge hourly rates.  Current CompuServe customers did not take to it, but new customers did come on-board.  Despite it's pricing innovation WOW was not a success and on January 31, 1997 WOW shut down for good.  CompuServe, which was owned by H&R Block was sold to Worldcom, and immediatly to AOL, which was later sold to Time Warner.  At this time Time Warner is in discussions to split AOL off into it's own company.  

Despite CompuServe's early presence, and later innovations, they were overpowered by AOL which was better built to match the market of the time.

-Professor Walter