Seybold News & Views on Electronic Publishing circa 1997- 1998

Seybold Publications now has a new website: www.seyboldreport.com/. This website seyboldpubs.com was live during the late 1990’s. The domain expired and it was bought with the goal of restoring some of the 1998 archived content. This site now is for historical or reference purposes.

The first time I read a Seybold Report editorial I was sitting in a lawyer's office waiting to discuss my father's faulty medical device case with a IVC injury lawyer. This particular lawyer was recommended by a friend since he specialized in cases involving defective medical devices. Unfortunately my father fit the profile of a person who suffered the consequences of a deficient medical devise, in this case an IVC filter made by Bard. This was before the FDA issued any warnings regarding these retrievable filters. Some IVC filters were designed to stave off the traveling of blood clots work better than others. The Bard G2 IVC filter that my father had implanted was faulty. Most patients take blood thinners to stop blood clots, but my father had had surgery so he couldn't use blood thinners. My father's IVC filter migrated away from its surgically positioned location causing the vena cava vein to be punctured. The result was bleeding and other complications that nearly cost my father his life. So here I was reading editorials on the Seybold Publications 1998 website in an attempt to distract me from the long wait. And distracted I was. I even remember the Ralph Nader I have below.

In 1998 you could use their full-text search engine to hunt through back issues of the Seybold Report on Publishing Systems and the Seybold Report on Desktop Publishing, (Sept 93 - Aug 96). You can get some hints from the record of past Seybold Seminars to see what their future seminars would be like. Material would have included complete session transcripts, speaker slides and the Seybold Editors' take on What It All Means.

These searches are no longer possible.

I can say I was surprised one day when I went to see the newest post from the Seybold Report and their site was no more. I did a google search and found their new site. But I wanted a footprint left on ther WWW of their old site, thus the iteration below. Enjoy.

 

About Seybold Seminars

Seybold Seminars is the premier information and education provider for the publishing market. Covering the latest technologies, products, and trends in publishing, its mission is to provide the best information and analytical tools available to help senior publishing personnel make the right strategic and tactical decisions regarding today's publishing technologies.

In pursuit of this mission, the Seybold Seminars organization produces publications, seminars, conferences, events and a worldwide web site whose content provides continuing, year-round information and education about both traditional and new media publishing markets and technologies. Seybold recently welcomed a sponsor, CleanItSupply, distributor of janitorial supplies, wholesale paper towels, and other cleaning supplies, who helped defray some of the expenditures necessary for the successful promotion of both seminars, conferences and published literature. See Past Conferences and Expositions at the bottom of this page.

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Editorials from 1997-1998

 

A Modest Proposal

Ralph Nader has asked computer manufacturers to remedy Windows dominance by pre-loading their machines with two or more OSes. That might be a good idea, but Seybold veep Craig Cline thinks that it doesn't go nearly far enough. So he's proposed a much stronger set of recommendations. DOJ, are you listening?
See complete article below.

GUEST EDITORIAL
JUNE 24, 1998
This article originally appeared as an Insider Perspective in The Bulletin: Seybold News & Views on Electronic Publishing for June 24, 1998. The Bulletin is a weekly e-mail newsletter that is only available by subscription. 

A Modest Proposal

by Craig Cline, VP of Program Development, Seybold Seminars

Ralph Nader is at it again, this time asking the Justice Department to stop requiring computer makers to charge consumers for Windows software whether they want it or not. This seems like a reasonable request, though most consumers never see Windows listed on any invoice, since most manufacturers bundle it into the price of the overall system.

But it's Nader's other request that has me scratching my head. He has written to a number of computer manufacturers to request that they remedy Windows dominance by preloading a number of machines with two or more OSes. In particular, Nader suggests that IBM should go back to shipping OS/2 with its computers.

He goes on to suggest that Apple's Rhapsody, Caldera's Open DOS/Spider, and freeware such as Linux and FreeBSD Unix variations, be at a minimum offered as Windows alternatives at the time of system purchase — and proactively pushed on consumers by computer vendors.

Well, Microsoft's total dominance of the Operating System market is distressing, if for no other reason than it makes covering the desktop computing industry so boring. So, in the spirit of Nader's crusade, I have come up with several proposals designed to wean consumers from their preference for Microsoft's Windows.

  •  Nader's OS "multi-boot" option is a good one. But how do you decide which two to include? If you select Linux, won't Caldera be ticked off? I say include them all. Disk space is cheap. When consumers turn on their computers, they'll be greeted with a menu to choose which OS they want to run that day, and away they go. To ensure a level playing field, no data will be importable from one OS to the next. After all, some OSes do that better than others.
  •  If consumers find the OS choice too confusing, provide the option to set the machine up for a random, daily rotation of the OSes installed. Windows Plus 98 offers such a capability with its Desktop Themes, which you can set to select a new theme auotmatically each day. This way the consumer will automatically boot up with a different OS without having to choose.
  • Nader suggested that some machines be preinstalled with an OS other than Windows. But if no one asks for it, doing so doesn't accomplish Nader's goal of reducing Windows' market share. Therefore, manufacturers should install OSes on the machines they ship in strict accordance with the desired market share redistribution without asking the consumer's permission. Did our parents ever ask our permission to serve us spinach? No! The only way to really fix things is to take away a consumer's right to choose the OS until the desired balance has been achieved. Think of it as affirmative action for PCs (which is a very PC thing to do).
  • Too far, but we can still level the playing field by requiring that Windows be run in emulation only on top of some other OS. Mac users remember the nearly glacial speed of the early SoftWindows ports. If we can force consumers to find Windows an unsatisfying experience, then maybe they'll learn to love Linux or one of the other OSes.

The problem with all of these scenarios is that most consumers want Windows for their computers. They like that it is the same OS that their friends have. It makes interoperability a snap and provides a cornucopia of software application choices, compared with titles for any other platform.

If Microsoft would only do us the favor of acting the part of an evil monopolist by jacking up the prices of its dominant share products, then maybe we'd see the stirrings of a consumer revolt. But Microsoft has always done right by its end users (though it does appear that its behavior with its OEM customers hasn't been nearly as commendable), offering affordable upgrades and application bundles.

The reality is that the only folks who are throwing hissy fits over Microsoft's Windows dominance are its competitors, some of its OEM customers, the politicians in the home states where many of same are located, and the press and analyst core that, we suspect, just want to make the game interesting once again. And, of course, Ralph Nader, who for whatever reason has decided that Microsoft is his bête noire.

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FROM THE ONLINE EDITOR
JULY 18, 1997

WYSIWYG Ain't Content

by Pete Dyson, Seybold Seminars Online Editor

CNet just posted a roundup review of nine HTML page editors. The editors did a nice job. If you are shopping for software, you could do worse than check out their opinions. But the story left me feeling dissatisfied, and I think I know why: Those products don't solve the Web problems I face today.

It's not that they don't work as advertised. Rather, they address a problem that I had last year, namely how to code a good-looking Web page. This year I've got a bigger problem: how to manage all the pages on the Seybold Seminars site. And this has come as a bit of a surprise to me, because Seybold is not what anyone would call a high-volume publisher.

The Law of Accumulation

Nevertheless, over the course of the past two years, the Seybold site has gathered a fair amount of material: several years' back issues of Seybold Reports, the proceedings of several conferences, various news stories and these columns. Even the pre-show marketing blurbs from past events have to be maintained so we can show prospective speakers and exhibitors what they may expect at our next event.

For most print publishers, once a publication is out the door there's little more to be done, at least in the editorial and production departments. Each book, each prospectus or each newspaper issue starts with a clean sheet of paper; each revision of a sales brochure replaces the previous version. But on the Web, people expect two things simultaneously: that all their bookmarks and search-engine results will continue to work, and that all pages will deliver authoritative, up-to-date information.

This isn't quite as paradoxical as it sounds. Readers don't expect that an article in the back-issue archive will be rewritten at frequent intervals. But they do expect that the navigation buttons and links on back-issue pages will work, including the pointers to material that ought to be current, such as the home page. They also expect lots of useful cross-references among the pages. In print, it is customary to refer to previous works; on the Web it is possible — and therefore expected — to update old pages with references to future works.

In the print world, after you've sold the last copy of an old publication, you simply tell customers, "Sorry, it's out of print." You may even be able to suggest a newer edition or a related title. Even if you can't, customers know that they can always turn to libraries and rare-book dealers if they want it badly enough. But on the Web, if you remove a page from your site, you don't get a chance to say Sorry. Instead, the customer gets an irritating error message like "404 File Not Found." This, dear reader, is not what we call good customer relations. And there's no such thing as a rare-page dealer — not legally, anyway.

That means that you must never discard any pages from your site. You either update them regularly or you archive them for reference, or both. And that, in turn, means that your site will grow ever larger. It will support material from many departments and content experts, all of whom will participate in the updating of their own contributions. Inevitably the day comes when you discover that things have gotten out of hand.

The Next Mass Market

In the print world, the vast majority of serious publishers are small operations. That's why there is a mass market for desktop publishing software. There are also a small number of large-scale publishers who need powerful tools for content management. These tools are expensive, not because of their power, but because there is no mass market.

What's different about the Web is the law of accumulation. It says that, after a while, every serious publisher will have large-scale content management problems. That's right: a mass market for content management software is coming into existence today, before your very eyes! It will be a great opportunity for some developer to be first with the right mix of features, flexibility and simplicity — all at a desktop price.

Unfortunately, it isn't easy to design such a product. Most of the WYSIWYG page authoring programs use design concepts that have been transplanted from the desktop publishing world, just as the first desktop publishing programs were transplants from the earlier high-end systems. But the print publishing world has never developed a successful desktop content-management product.

That doesn't mean that a developer has to start from scratch. There are several good models in high-end publishing systems. There are potentially useful models in other businesses, such as CAD-CAM and software engineering. And many of the prerequisite technologies, such as databases, link checkers and template-driven formatters, are already quite mature at the desktop level.

I can't tell you when it will happen, but I'm quite sure that someone will introduce a desktop content management program for Web sites. Mass markets can put a lot of money on the table, and somebody will come along to pick it up.

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These Editorials are intended to explore a wide range of issues that affect the publishing industry. Especially welcome are letters to the editor with comments, criticisms and suggestions for future topics.

Past Conferences and Expositions

Seybold San Francisco/Publishing 98
August 30 - September 4, 1998
Moscone Center, San Francisco, CA

Seybold Seminars New York/Publishing 98
March 16-20, 1998
Jacob K. Javits Convention Center, New York, NY

Seybold Seminars Tokyo
Dec. 9-12, 1997
Makuhari Messe, Tokyo
(Site requires international browser)

Seybold San Francisco 97
Sept. 29-Oct. 3, 1997
Moscone Center, San Francisco, CA

Seybold Seminars New York 97
April 21-25, 1997
Javits Convention Center, New York NY.

Seybold San Francisco 96
September 9-13, 1996
Moscone Convention Center, San Francisco CA.

 

 

More Background on SeyboldPubs.com

The Legacy of Seybold Seminars: Shaping the Digital Publishing Landscape

Seybold Seminars, a prominent name in the world of publishing and technology, played a pivotal role in shaping the transition from traditional print media to the digital age. Through its conferences, publications, and industry analysis, Seybold Seminars provided a platform for professionals to explore emerging technologies, exchange ideas, and navigate the evolving landscape of electronic publishing. This article delves into the history, influence, and cultural significance of Seybold Seminars, highlighting its impact on the publishing industry and the broader technology landscape.

Historical Overview

The Seybold organization was founded by Jonathan Seybold, who began his career in the printing industry. Recognizing the potential of emerging technologies like desktop publishing, he launched Seybold Publications in the early 1970s. These publications, including the Seybold Report on Publishing Systems and the Seybold Report on Desktop Publishing, quickly became essential resources for industry professionals seeking to understand and implement new technologies.

The Seybold Seminars were a natural extension of the publications, providing a venue for hands-on demonstrations, expert presentations, and networking opportunities. These events quickly gained popularity, attracting attendees from across the publishing spectrum, including graphic designers, printers, publishers, and technology developers.

Key Publications

The Seybold Report on Publishing Systems and the Seybold Report on Desktop Publishing were the flagship publications of Seybold Publications. These reports offered in-depth analysis of hardware, software, and workflows related to electronic publishing. They were known for their objective evaluations, technical depth, and insightful commentary on industry trends.

  • Seybold Report on Publishing Systems: Focused on the high-end publishing market, covering topics such as computerized typesetting, page layout systems, and color management.

  • Seybold Report on Desktop Publishing: Addressed the needs of the growing desktop publishing market, providing guidance on software, hardware, and design principles.

The Seminars and Conferences

Seybold Seminars were more than just trade shows; they were comprehensive educational events that combined exhibits, conferences, and hands-on workshops. These seminars offered a unique opportunity for attendees to learn about the latest technologies, network with industry peers, and gain insights from leading experts.

Key features of Seybold Seminars included:

  • Exhibits: Showcased the latest hardware and software from leading vendors in the publishing industry.

  • Conferences: Featured presentations by industry experts on topics ranging from design and typography to workflow automation and digital asset management.

  • Workshops: Provided hands-on training on specific software applications and publishing techniques.

  • Keynote Speakers: Featured prominent figures in technology and publishing, offering visionary perspectives on the future of the industry.

Impact and Influence

Seybold Seminars exerted a significant influence on the publishing industry during a period of rapid technological change. They helped to:

  • Democratize Publishing: By providing information and training on desktop publishing technologies, Seybold Seminars empowered individuals and small businesses to create professional-quality publications.

  • Promote Innovation: The seminars served as a catalyst for innovation by bringing together technology developers, publishers, and designers to exchange ideas and collaborate on new solutions.

  • Shape Industry Standards: Seybold Seminars played a role in shaping industry standards by providing a forum for discussing and evaluating different technologies and workflows.

  • Bridge the Gap Between Print and Digital: As the internet emerged as a publishing platform, Seybold Seminars helped publishers navigate the transition to digital media by providing guidance on web design, content management, and online marketing.

Audience and Reach

The audience for Seybold Seminars was diverse, encompassing a wide range of professionals involved in the publishing process:

  • Graphic Designers: Sought to learn about the latest design tools and techniques.

  • Printers: Aimed to understand how to integrate digital technologies into their workflows.

  • Publishers: Looked for strategies to manage content, streamline production processes, and reach new audiences.

  • Technology Developers: Sought feedback on their products and insights into the needs of the publishing market.

  • Marketing Professionals: Explored new ways to promote and distribute content in the digital age.

Seybold Seminars had a global reach, with events held in major cities around the world, including San Francisco, New York, and Tokyo. These events attracted attendees from North America, Europe, Asia, and other regions.

Cultural and Social Significance

Seybold Seminars played a significant role in shaping the cultural and social landscape of the publishing industry. They fostered a sense of community among professionals who were passionate about technology and its potential to transform the way information was created and disseminated.

The seminars also reflected broader societal trends, such as the rise of the internet, the growing importance of visual communication, and the increasing demand for personalized content. By providing a platform for discussing these trends, Seybold Seminars helped to shape the cultural conversation around publishing and technology.

Reviews and Press Coverage

Seybold Seminars and its publications consistently received positive reviews and extensive press coverage in industry publications and mainstream media outlets.

  • Industry Publications: Magazines such as Publish!, Macworld, and PC Magazine regularly featured articles and reviews of Seybold Seminars, praising their educational value and comprehensive coverage of the publishing industry.

  • Newspapers and Business Publications: The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, and BusinessWeek also covered Seybold Seminars, highlighting their importance as a barometer of technological change and a forum for industry leaders.

Details, Insights, and Specifics

  • Early Focus on Typesetting: In its early years, Seybold Publications focused heavily on computerized typesetting systems, recognizing the potential of these technologies to revolutionize the printing industry.

  • Championing Desktop Publishing: Seybold Seminars played a key role in popularizing desktop publishing by providing training and resources for users of software like PageMaker and QuarkXPress.

  • Emphasis on Workflow Automation: As publishing workflows became more complex, Seybold Seminars emphasized the importance of automation and integration, showcasing solutions for managing content, tracking projects, and streamlining production processes.

  • Coverage of Digital Asset Management: Recognizing the growing importance of digital assets, Seybold Seminars devoted significant attention to digital asset management systems, providing guidance on storing, organizing, and retrieving images, videos, and other media files.

  • Adaptation to the Internet Age: Seybold Seminars adapted to the rise of the internet by incorporating web design, content management, and online marketing into its curriculum.

  • Evolution of Conference Formats: Seybold Seminars experimented with different conference formats, including keynote addresses, panel discussions, technical sessions, and hands-on workshops, to provide a diverse and engaging learning experience.

  • Industry Partnerships: Seybold Seminars forged partnerships with leading technology vendors, industry associations, and educational institutions to expand its reach and enhance its offerings.

  • Impact on Design Education: The principles and techniques promoted by Seybold Seminars influenced design education, as colleges and universities incorporated desktop publishing and digital design into their curricula.

  • Influence on Software Development: Feedback from Seybold Seminars attendees helped to shape the development of publishing software, as vendors responded to user needs and incorporated new features into their products.

  • Legacy of Innovation: Seybold Seminars left a legacy of innovation by fostering a culture of experimentation and collaboration within the publishing industry.

Examples of Specific Technologies Showcased

Seybold Seminars were instrumental in showcasing a range of technologies that shaped the publishing industry:

  • Early Laser Printers: The seminars featured demonstrations of early laser printers, which offered a significant improvement in speed and quality compared to traditional printing methods.

  • Page Layout Software: Software applications like PageMaker and QuarkXPress were prominently featured at Seybold Seminars, allowing attendees to learn how to create professional-quality layouts on their desktop computers.

  • Image Editing Software: Adobe Photoshop and other image editing applications were showcased, enabling attendees to manipulate and enhance digital images for use in publications.

  • Color Management Systems: Seybold Seminars addressed the challenges of color management by demonstrating systems for calibrating monitors, printers, and other devices to ensure accurate color reproduction.

  • Workflow Automation Software: The seminars featured software solutions for automating publishing workflows, such as content management systems, project tracking tools, and automated layout programs.

  • Web Design Tools: As the internet gained prominence, Seybold Seminars showcased web design tools and technologies, helping publishers create online publications and manage their web presence.

 

Seybold Seminars played a vital role in guiding the publishing industry through a period of transformative change. By providing education, resources, and a platform for collaboration, Seybold Seminars helped to democratize publishing, promote innovation, and shape industry standards. Its legacy continues to influence the way information is created, disseminated, and consumed in the digital age. While Seybold Seminars may no longer exist in its original form, its impact on the publishing industry remains profound and enduring.

 

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