The Business Model of Trade eBooks from Consumer Viewpoint: A Conceptual Framework

Abstract

While eBooks are generally on the rise, the pace of expansion differs by country. Sales of eBooks are slow in developing countries compared to those in the developed countries such as Japan, the USA and the UK. This study is an attempt to develop a business model which can help to identify components that promote the sales of trade eBooks. Literature on the definition and properties of eBooks as well as definitions and components of business models are analysed. A conceptual framework of a business model for trade eBooks from a consumer viewpoint is proposed. This business model consists of five components namely Value Proposition & Offering, Market Structure & Customers, Organisation & Activities, Resources & Technology, and Cost & Revenue.