ALPSP: Commissioning Content: Working effectively with authors and editors

This course considers ways in which to develop and manage a commercially successful academic journal and book programme. Taking delegates step-by-step through the commissioning process, it aims to provide practical advice, relevant tips and techniques to commission and solicit successful content and titles – from market scanning and community development through to proposal management and eventual publication. It also considers appropriate financial forecasting models.

You will learn to: utilise appropriate market scanning techniques; approach potential new authors and editors with increased confidence; prepare more effective proposals and develop successful lists; analyse and critically evaluate commercial opportunities; manage contracts and schedules effectively; and develop techniques to avoid bad decisions.

This course is aimed at commissioning editors and managing editors involved in a new launch programme or book list commissioning role with one to two years’ experience. Staff newly appointed to these positions will also benefit.