Posts filed under Subscriptions

1: The Netflix of Ebooks

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In our premiere episode, Glenn Fleishman and Jane Friedman talk over the concept of the "Netflix of ebooks": can one or more online services accumulate enough books of interest to allow subscription-based access that's interesting to readers, produces more revenue for publishers, and has a business case for survival? (See our About page for host bios.)

Sponsor: This podcast is made possible through the generous support of MailChimp, which is underwriting our first six episodes. MailChimp lets you manage email lists of any size. They also make hats for cats and dogs.

Show notes

How can we keep up with the constant change in publishing?

Existing subscription-based ebooks servcies

Can these services:

  • Provide a value and service?
  • Provide sufficient revenue for authors/publishers to invest?

Are libraries suffering from Blockbuster Syndrome?

Rights to books seems to be much more complicated than other media channels.

Is there a gatekeeper for the overwhelmed reader?

The biggest problem with subscription services:

  • Gym membership phenomenon
  • Books are not a mass media business
  • Heavy readers may not be their audience

Big Head and Long Tail

Safari Books by O’Reilly is a specialized market:

  • Books are plentiful, but perishable
  • Books are constantly revised
  • Books in every category
  • Books could be commissioned to fill in the gaps

Industry background:

  • How are royalties calculated?
  • Why are consumers interested?
  • Good for authors besides a paycheck?
  • The book club effect
  • Print vs. e-book profits
  • Beware the power of the Amazon empire

Where does an e-book go when it dies?

Other book-based models

Do publishers even know what is going on?

Glenn predicts a new dystopian future with algorithm created books based on demand.

Ultimately, e-book subscription services have a big struggle ahead of them.

Recommended articles:

Posted on May 27, 2014 and filed under Podcasts, Publishing, Subscriptions.