E‐publishing readiness assessment in Iranian publishing companies

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is first to construct an e‐publishing model and then to implement the model in Iranian publishers.

Design/methodology/approach

This article critically tries to evaluate Iranian publishing companies involved in e‐publishing based on a new model which is made in this paper. Moreover, it has tried to investigate the readiness of the society and the Ministry of Culture and Islamic Guidance as a legislator toward e‐publishing. Furthermore, some suggestions to remove challenges toward e‐publishing based on the findings will be made.

Findings

A new e‐publishing readiness model is made based on e‐readiness prior models. Based on the new model, the e‐publishing readiness level of Iranian publishing companies is evaluated. It was found that, to improve e‐publishing, it is necessary to have a holistic view toward the model in a way that considers all dimensions of e‐publishing. Furthermore, it was found that in some constructs like technical infrastructure, social, and economical and financial constructs, Iranian publishers did not enjoy a good status, while in other factors this was better. Consequently, based on these finding, some suggestions are made toward improving the e‐publishing readiness level of Iranian publishers.

Originality/value

This research is probably the first to support the perspective of critical issues regarding e‐readiness assessment in publishing companies based on macro models. It will give a good insight which it is expected could be helpful for managers to consider the critical issues with respect to e‐readiness assessment of their organization in an effective way.

Citation

Toufani, S. and Montazer, G.A. (2011), "E‐publishing readiness assessment in Iranian publishing companies", The Electronic Library, Vol. 29 No. 4, pp. 470-487. https://doi.org/10.1108/02640471111156740