There is so much to consider when creating and developing publisher websites. From the choice of platform, to the metadata you use to get found, to the positioning of books on your homepage, user navigation – and so much more.

This course has been designed for non-technical publishing professionals with responsibility for their company websites. We will explore how to make the most of your online space, to maximise book sales and help your readers to decide which of your books to buy.

This course has been designed to run over two consecutive weeks to allow you to fit this into your busy schedule. We also find that it helps attendees to retain information from the session.

It is split into two 1-hour sessions that take place between 1–2:30 p.m. (BST). We will send you one Zoom link which will be used each time you log on for the course.

£130 +VAT (or 50% off for BookMachine members). Further discounts are available directly from Publishing Scotland for their members.

Week 1 (Thursday 13th May): Website priorities and good metadata

• Platforms, modules, add-ons – the key components
• Why eCommerce?
• Totting up the costs
• You get out what you put in – building the product page
• The good, the bad and the ugly: a few examples

Week 2 (Thursday 20th May): Building traffic, loyalty, and sales

• The power of Google
• Think retail
• What do your customers want/expect?
• eCommerce Do’s and Don’ts
• The fruits of your labour – summary

About the tutor

Finn Kirkland has worked within the publishing industry for over 15 years, holding a range of sales, business development and commercial roles. He spent the best part of 10 years in-house before moving to Firsty Group in 2014, where he works with trade and academic publishers of all sizes.

Much of his current role involves publisher liaison around eCommerce, web and app development projects, and direct-to-consumer models.