Commissioning Content: Working with Authors and Editors

Course Date(s)	Tuesday 14 & Wednesday 15 July 2026
Course Time(s)	09:00-12:00 (EDT), 14:00-17:00 (BST), 15:00-18:00 (CEST) with 15 minutes of networking before the start of session two
Format	Training: Live Online

 

Price Dates	Price Tier	ALPSP Member	Non-Member
Ends 14 April 2026	Early Bird	£275 + VAT	n/a
Begins 15 April 2026	Standard	£325 + VAT	£550 + VAT

 

This training considers the most successful ways in which to develop and manage a commercial academic journal and book programme, including how to adapt commissioning strategies in a transition to a more virtual working environment. Taking delegates step-by-step through the commissioning process, the course aims to provide practical advice, relevant tips and techniques to commission and solicit successful content and titles – from market scanning and community development through to proposal management and eventual publication. It also considers how to maximise resources available to us. 

Please note: Delegates will not receive a recording of the training course. Read helpful information for delegates attending.

Who should attend? 

This course is aimed at commissioning/acquisition editors and managing editors involved in all aspects of commissioning including new launch programmes or book list commissioning, with one to two years’ experience. Staff newly appointed to these positions will also really benefit from latest best practice. 

What will you learn? 

Utilise appropriate market scanning techniques, approach potential new authors and editors with increased confidence, prepare more effective proposals and develop successful lists, analyse and critically evaluate commercial opportunities, manage contracts and schedules effectively and develop techniques to avoid bad decisions.

Programme

• Commissioning – key activities and considerations 
• Commissioning and soliciting content for existing journal titles 
• Commissioning a new journal launch title 
• Commissioning a new book title – from proposal to publication 
• Preparing a proposal, including market scanning techniques and financial planning 
• Building effective relationships with authors and editors 
• List management and development 
• Relationships with key stakeholders in journals and book publishing 
• Networking both in-person and online 
• Identifying high-profile authors to target for article content 
• Influencing skills and change management 
• Key business issues affecting managing editors and publishers 
• AI and commissioning 
• EDI considerations

VAT Information:

• UK customers: 20% UK VAT applies
• EU VAT-registered customers: VAT reverse-charged (valid VAT number required)
• Customers outside the UK and EU: No UK VAT charged.

 

By booking this event you are agreeing to ALPSP's Terms & Conditions