The information sales industry underwent significant changes in 2001. This article explores the shifts in trends and practices that shaped the industry during this period. It provides insights into what was phased out and what emerged as the new norm, offering a comprehensive understanding of the industry's evolution.
In the past, many content creators gave away their valuable content for free. However, 2001 saw a shift towards selling this content. This change was driven by the realization that quality content, which is appreciated and trusted by readers, has a market value. Content creators were encouraged to start small, perhaps with a 15-20 page special report priced between $10-$30. This approach not only generated income but also provided the motivation to create and promote other information products.
The year 2001 also marked a shift from publishing free e-zines to syndicating content. The market was saturated with e-zines, particularly in the business industry. Content syndication, which involves allowing other websites and e-zines to feature your articles, emerged as a more effective strategy. This approach enabled content creators to reach a wider audience without the hassles of running their own e-zine. Platforms like iSyndicate and The Syndicator facilitated content syndication.
While PDFs were not entirely phased out, the advent of wireless content was a significant development in 2001. The proliferation of digital telephones and the increasing use of these devices to access information on the internet signaled the beginning of a new era in digital information delivery. This trend was particularly noticeable in countries like France and China, where mobile phones were becoming ubiquitous.
Selling information wholesale emerged as a more profitable strategy than selling retail. This approach involved selling the reprint rights of an information product to a small number of people, who would then promote the product. This strategy not only generated substantial upfront income but also ensured that the author's name continued to circulate positively.
In 2001, the importance of professionalism in self-publishing became more evident. A professional web presence was crucial for attracting and retaining customers. This included having a clean website design, a secure order form, and a well-designed cover for e-books. These elements were seen as indicators of a serious business, which in turn influenced customers' purchasing decisions.
