Platformization and Publishing: Changes in Literary Publishing

Abstract

This article explores the influence of platformization on literary publishing, focusing on the impact of audiobooks and streaming services on editorial processes and business objectives. Increased importance of some genres, sliding concepts of quality, increasing dependency on social media, diminishing economic margins, and stricter editorial decisions are transitioning traits highlighted in this study on Norwegian trade publishers. Further, the analysis brings forward three central challenges to today's publishers: dependence on digital platforms to obtain readership, favoring simple narrative structures countering broader catalogues, and increased press on prioritizing in a market characterized by customization.

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