Hello All, I'm thinking about creating a writers site that requires the writer to submit text with a voice read of their work. Text would be submitted first, then if approved, we'd request the mp3. The idea behind the site is: Short reads for a layover at an airport or during a road trip, etc. (I always swing by Books-a-Million and grab a Book CD for long road trips.) The text/mp3 would be free to both the writer and reader/listener and the site would be supported by ads. We would seek top-notch writing, but not the length that would sour publishers later. Most publishers are not interested in short stories unless you're a proven writer. The benefit for the writer is that she/he would be allowed to get their work and their name out there. At the end of their story (text and voice), they can include a link to their website or blog or book. Of course I would work the php code so that it's web and mobile friendly. What do you think?
I think you'd have to already have an established audience for authors to trust you enough/view it worth their time to submit their "top-notch" writing. And to get that established audience, you'd have to have marketed your product enough to attract your audience, have good enough quality writing to intrigue your audience, and have a large enough amount of quality writing available to retain your audience. What are your plans for overcoming these issues?
Sounds good. I wouldn't use, I don't travel. But I can imagine others liking it. What languages do you code? I do a bit of HTML and CSS, but I rely on Bootstrap because I hate CSS. PHP is boring to learn so I'm not really learning to code at the moment.
I just use my kindle when traveling. Easy to read a quick bit whenever. There are already many audiobooks available for free, including short stories, while free to download podcasts remain very popular. You could certainly try it, but it would be a drop in the ocean of available material. It would be just as hard to 'get out there' as any other avenue, especially because it would need considerable exposure. If it's 'top notch writing' an author more than likely won't be that desperate for a small-time distribution avenue. Lastly, audio recording is a skill that also requires the right gear/setup. You can't just record it on your phone and make do. Writers can't just 'act' either.
Thanks for all your input. The issues raised here have convinced me that my effort might be better used on another project. I have another idea for authors that I will post later. I'll close the poll. Admin - can you freeze this post?
