The first thing that comes to our mind when we think about eBook sampling is the eBook previews we get from eBook providers such as Amazon. But eBook sampling isn’t merely confined to chapter previews, it also includes giving the entire eBook as sample especially to a few and select audience. The application of this scenario is best understood by looking at the textbook adoption process in America. Although each state in America has its own textbook adoption process, the framework is more or less the same. Let’s take a look at the adoption cycle process divided in steps:
- Proclamation: A committee issues a proclamation to call for textbooks. The proclamation lists the subject areas where instructional materials are needed along with the information regarding adoption procedures and requirements.
- Development: After going through the proclamation, publishers report their interest in participating in the adoption process. They develop textbooks within a specific period of time, say one year.
- Sampling: After completing the instructional materials, the publishers submit electronic copy of their materials to the concerned committee or board. The sample they present is the final product and working.
- Reviewing: The committee or review panel goes through the eBook samples and submits their report to the head of the committee.
- Adoption: The instructional materials are found eligible if it meets a certain criteria or standards set by the committee. This results in adoption or rejection of the instructional material.
This process not only captures the importance of eBook sampling in textbook adoption in the US but also gives an idea about how significant eBook sampling has become today. eBook sampling is also known as virtual sampling. The benefits of virtual sampling include:
- Publishers can save the money required for printing samples as well as any shipment costs
- Publishers get notified immediately when their digital samples are reviewed
- Reviewing sample becomes very easy as digital samples provide easy access and quick content navigation
- Publishers can easily collaborate on the review process
- Publishers can control access restrictions of their samples such as the valid period for accessing the digital sample
eBook sampling is a win-win situation as both the publisher as well as the reader or reviewer benefits from it. If the publisher’s book is excellent, the electronic sample will reflect it and ensure that most number of copies are sold. Also, since reviewing gives scope for determining the actual value of the book, readers will only get the best books.
Impelsys uses iPublishCentral to provide the sampling solution for publishers who participate in the textbook adoption process. Publishers can use this tried and tested solution for delivering digital samples of their text books to the review panel members.
