What are the biggest challenges when creating an editorial project from scratch?

And how does FWC overcome them?

Challenge # 1: Audience Definition

Audience Definition is essential when creating an editorial project.   

Many times, the client starts within an industry they are familiar with, and from there, the proper messaging, platforms, and channels are gestated to give birth to a new magazine or editorial project.

An analysis is key to determine if the hypothetical audience or niche really is as big and profitable to make the project sustainable as originally thought. We’ve seen instances in the past, where the actual size and lifetime value of the reader audience turn out to be underwhelming and this proves to be a major blow for the project. 

Mid to long-term viability is greatly enhanced when proper audience research is performed upfront.

Challenge #2: Monetization

A fabulous byproduct of the audience analysis process is that we gain clarity on the reader personas. We understand for each of them what types of products or services are of interest to them. This allows us to focus our advertiser acquisition efforts and increase the long-term viability of the project.

Challenge # 3: Channel and Format Definition

What channels or platforms are we going to use? Digital or Print Media? Are we creating a Newspaper? A Magazine? A book?

These are essential questions to answer as we determine the direction of the project from an editorial standpoint.

Challenge # 4: Distribution Methods

How are where will the publication be distributed? In the case of digital publications, we examine the pros and cons of distributing through distribution partners such as Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and platforms such as kindle.

Challenge #5: Publication Frequency and Quantity

Project resources are directly affected by the frequency and print quantity (for printed publications). Will this publication come out Weekly? Monthly? Quarterly? Yearly?  Our team helps you decide.

Challenge #6: Content Requirement

What form will the content take? Written Articles? Videos? Audio Interviews? How much and how often will they be needed?  Who are the best content producers for his particular project? These are all questions we answer together.

Challenge #7: Aesthetic Definition

As we consider the target audience for the publication, these essential considerations are explored:

What layouts will be used? What will be our color scheme? What typography sets will work best? When should we use photos, custom illustrations, or other graphical elements?

Once all these challenges are met, a prototype is developed in what is many times called Edition 0 in the editorial industry.  All aspects of the publication production efforts are pulled together. This is where all the kinks are worked out and the template for the creation of all subsequent editions is produced.  Depending on the budget and complexity of the project, this crucial process can take between 30 and 60 days. This essential step enables all future publications to be produced with the required frequency because all key elements are already defined.

Ready to make your editorial project a reality?

Schedule a conversation with FWC’s professional editorial team to receive expert guidance and input..