How Bespoke Workflows With an Offshore and Onshore Model Helped a University Press Double Their Turnover

The Client
A leading mid-sized University Press based in the UK, renowned for its growing influence in academic publishing. With an increasing number of international partnerships, overseas authors, and a significant shift toward digital content, they were positioned for expansion and aimed to double their publishing output of books and journals.
The Challenge
The University Press faced several challenges as they aimed to scale up their operations. With ambitious goals of doubling the volume of published titles within a limited timeframe, they
struggled with:

• Increased Workload: A higher number of titles needed to be delivered quickly, while their staff size had decreased.
• Cost Efficiencies: The need to maintain or improve margins amidst rising pressures from digitization and open access models.
• Operational Bottlenecks: Handling a growing volume of digital content with limited resources, all while maintaining high editorial standards.
• Tight Deadlines: Meeting ambitious publishing targets with a reduced workforce and delivering top-tier customer service to their authors.
  The Solution
  Newgen designed a bespoke workflow solution for the University Press using a combination of onshore and offshore models to streamline production and ensure efficiency without compromising on quality.
• Custom Workflow Design: Newgen collaborated closely with the University Press to create a new, tailored workflow. This workflow allowed titles to move seamlessly from the editorial team to production, with Newgen managing the pre-production assessments, scheduling, budgeting, and content system checks.
• Integrated Production Support: Newgen’s offshore teams provided the scalability needed to meet the increased volume of titles. Their onshore team ensured close collaboration with the client and provided high-touch project management.
• Cross-functional Services: Newgen’s expertise allowed the University Press to outsource any part of the production process for flexible durations, which helped them manage unpredictable workloads.
• Backlist Digitization: Newgen also supported the client in digitizing their entire backlist, converting content to XML and enabling distribution in multiple digital formats via PubFactory.
  Outcomes
• Operational Efficiency: Newgen’s bespoke workflow allowed the University Press to meet their publishing targets on time, freeing up their internal team to focus on strategic tasks.
• Improved Editorial Standards: The new workflows ensured that editorial standards were upheld, and Newgen’s project managers maintained high levels of customer service for repeat authors.
• Scalability and Flexibility: The client gained a scalable solution they could rely on for future publishing demands. Newgen’s flexible model allowed them to add on additional support as needed.
• Business Growth: The University Press doubled its turnover within two years and received an international award for best academic publisher. This milestone reinforced the success of their collaboration with Newgen.
  By leveraging Newgen’s expertise and resources, the University Press not only met but also exceeded its ambitious goals, securing its place as a leader in academic publishing.