India is all set to become an international hub for outsourced publishing services, it was reportedly stated at the recent Confederation of Indian Industry’s conference, ‘Sustaining India to be the Global Publishing BPO Services Hub’. It has been estimated that offshoring of publishing is likely to cross $1.2 billion. Last year, Indian publishing BPOs posted revenues of $660 million.
It was observed that new segments, technological advancements and capabilities would significantly alter the publishing BPO industry. The industry also faces major challenges in the form of increased pressure on margins; the pressing need to reduce staffing and overhead costs; and the growing requirement to standardise products and processes. Other challenges faced by publishers include increased re-selling of used books and customers looking for high-end lecture and teaching materials. The need for substantial investments in test assessment platforms as well as e-books also poses a challenge.
Speakers at the conference also noted that technological advancements offer various opportunities, with the digital explosion greatly impacting how business is done. With increased overseas acquisitions and the shake-out of weaker players, the industry is projected to see greater consolidation. The publishing BPO industry, which currently employs around 35,000 professionals, is likely to see the numbers rise to 55,000 by 2012.
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