This paper is dedicated to the memory of Linda Anderson, research writer and well of wisdom.
Benchmarking HarperCollins' Approach to E-Book Sales
Research Compiled for The Paper Store Enterprises Inc.
By Jeannie MacAdams Caldwell, April, 2006
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Introduction
Harrison-Keyes has met only with significant problems in developing a sales model centered on electronic formats. It now seeks to benchmark another publishing company; HarperCollins is the company selected.
Company Situation
HarperCollins is a large, well-known publisher that does not lead its industry. That distinction is held by Random House, the world's largest trade publisher (Lowry, 2005). Random House is approaching digitalization of books as would be expected of the largest organization; HarperCollins has taken an approach much more in keeping with the needs and size of Harrison-Keyes.
As is the case in all of traditional publishing, mainstream publishers still are unclear of how to handle the advent of electronic publishing. HarperCollins appears to have devised an appropriate approach that serves the company well in the present without limiting its options in the future.
Best Practice or Process
HarperCollins has recognized that its core business is publishing and chooses to remain in that core business. Almost by default this decision leads it to seek out other organizations whose core business is selling published works. The company highlights all of its current titles at its website and provides a variety of methods by which site visitors can purchase a book after reading its description and possibly a review or two. Selecting ...