Then I read this. What do I do now?
In a recent article, The Economist touched upon the enduring value of paper.
Studies have shown that people tend to assign a greater value to the physical version of a product than its digital incarnation. Shoppers are willing to pay more for books and films they could hold than ones they could only download.
Research has also found that consumers who receive paper catalogues, as well as emails, spend more than those who receive only digital marketing.
In social situations it seems that when we appear ready to take notes using old-fashioned pen and paper, those in our presence feel more comfortable being with us. There is no evidence of a wider social network to detract from a 1-2-1 conversation.
Hmm…. I would like my digital publication to be useful to people.
So, if I focus on this and the enduring value of technology, I’m thinking it will help me get my project over the line.
Here is where technology has certain advantages:
Portability #
Paper books are heavy; whereas a mobile device weighs the same, no matter how many books are stored on it.
Easily updated #
The contents on eBooks are mostly cloud-based, meaning they can be updated any time. Authors and publishers can always add the up-to-date information, providing users with the latest versions, saving reprinting costs and time.
Shareable content #
The social feature on eBooks allows sharing and liking of content, which is not possible with printed books.
An improved visual experience #
The readers’ experience can be enhanced by the clever use of graphics.
Easy on the eyes #
The brightness of an eReader’s screen can be adjusted according to the time of the day and depending upon your preferences. Font sizes can also be adjusted to suit the reader.
Interaction #
eBooks can be embedded with audio and videos. External links can be included to offer additional information.
An environmentally friendly option #
eBooks are environmentally friendly. Their production eliminates the paper printing process, saving printing cost for the publishers and reducing the carbon footprint generated through transportation of raw materials and the end product.
Flexibility #
With eBooks, readers can do much more. Their reading experience can be customised, words can be looked up and links followed to watch and read more.
Onwards I go! #
“The journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.” – Lao Tzu.
And my journey continues. Onward and upward!
Thank you for reading.
