I originally published this blog post in 2009. The trends continue.
The publishing world is moving through a major transition period. For those of us who are part of the industry, this time of rapid change is raising many new issues. We face questions that don't have clear answers.
For example, the dramatic rise in both digital platforms delivering content and consumers' desire for inexpensive or free resources is putting the current publishing business model at risk. Consumers are moving away from retail stores to virtual retailers. The ebook and ereader world, while still in the early stages of adoption by consumers, will have an impact.
At this time a 3% to 5% market share does not seem to me to be too significant; however, this trend will continue and publishers must determine now how they will adjust to this growing demand for digital products.
In addition, the
publishing monetary model is under assault. The web is resetting the rules for commerce--you start with free and move to premium products for sale online. Wow, just talking about these issues makes my head spin! But this is the new normal for publishing in the 21st century.
Any thoughts?