Monday, February 20, 2012

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.

Monday, February 13, 2012

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?

Wednesday, February 8, 2012

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?