Kodak's Mistake Wasn't What You Think

Much has been written about Kodak's recent bankruptcy filing, and the consensus seems to be that Kodak missed the shift into digital cameras. However, I don't agree.

The problem is that even a successful digital camera business couldn't carry the cost structure of a Kodak. At its heyday, the company owned virtually all of the high margin film and paper business. It is hard to conceive of a digital camera strategy that could generate similar incomes.

Rethinking The Fiction Publishing Business

jmtimages on Flickr via JISC cc Licensed

Recently, I discussed a few of the issues facing fiction book publishers. My prediction is that their biggest competition will come from authors who bypass publishers and distribute through electronic channels (Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and even their personal web sites). Where does this leave the publisher in a post-printing world?

The Dilemna for Publishers of Fiction

Photo Credit: George Eastman House via Flicker

The traditional market for publishing fiction is under assault. The first salvo came with the introduction of print-on-demand. However, it appears the real threat is from the electronic book movement. One of the most significant trends from these initiatives is the emergence of competition from self-published  new comers, or even established pro's that are taking their books directly to consumers. How should a publisher react in this environment?