Making the change from print to online : a publisher’s perspective

Abstract(s)

As libraries move from paper subscriptions to online access the publisher is finding that their traditional subscription business model also has to develop and change. These changes, whilst offering new opportunities, can also be a threat to the publisher. This paper will present on the challenges now presented to Blackwell Publishing in this fast-changing, online-arena and will discuss how the new challenges of the online environment can be turned into opportunities both for the publisher and the consumer alike. This paper will examine how the move to online only effects the way that content is displayed to different groups of readers; how the traditional annual subscription fee model is being replaced by more sophisticated pricing model negotiations; and finally how the battle for readership ensues after each sale is made as usage data becomes the true deciding factor of whether a journal is renewed or cancelled.