As the publishing industry approaches the new millennium, a significant shift from traditional print publishing to digitalization has taken place. This trend has inevitably raised a flurry of questions regarding its impact on the industry. On March 24, a distinguished panel of publishing industry executives gathered at Pace University's Midtown Center to provide insights into and debate the future of the publishing industry in the digital age. Peggy Smyth, Arthur Andersen partner specializing in the media and entertainment industry initiated the session, which was moderated by Ivor Whitson, Professor of Publishing at Pace. The panelists focused on how digitalization has redefined and expanded their roles.
Publishing is no longer synonymous with the printed product.
Instead, publishers now view themselves in the content development, management and distribution business. The consensus reached was that publishers with good content, a strong and positive brand, and loyal customer relationships with both readers and advertisers are well positioned to succeed in the digital age. The key is effectively transferring and strengthening existing brand awareness to an emerging online franchise. As Chair of the Master of Science in Publishing program at Pace University, Prof. Sherman Raskin believes that digitalization is in its infancy and will revolutionize the publishing industry. Pace is a comprehensive, independent University with campuses in New York City and Westchester County.