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Summary
Everyone feels like they have a book in them—and UX designers, researchers, and (of course) writers are no exception. But having an idea and making it into a book are entirely different things. If you've ever wondered what's involved in the process, how it differs from other types of writing you've done, whether your idea even merits book treatment, or other authorial considerations, well... here's your opportunity to have an informal conversation with a real live publisher of UX books.
Key Insights
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Rosenfeld Media has published around 60 UX books since 2007, highlighting a sustained effort to fill a content gap for UX professionals.
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Topics that evoke strong opinions or frustrations, such as design systems, can be compelling book subjects.
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A good book should have a balance of 'what and why' content with a focus on actionable 'how' material.
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Overlap with existing popular titles can impact a book's success; it's crucial to find a unique angle.
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Self-publishing may offer more freedom, but traditional publishing provides extensive infrastructure and marketing support.
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Mapping out a clear outline is essential for both authors and publishers to ensure a cohesive final product.
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Books that invite collaboration during the writing process often achieve a better reception due to stakeholder involvement.
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Evergreen topics resonate better with readers, ensuring relevance over time.
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Authors should be passionate about their subject matter rather than writing solely for financial gain.
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Writing a book can be a long and laborious process, requiring commitment and time away from personal life.
Notable Quotes
"It's been a great ride, not always easy, but helping bring these books to an audience that deserves more attention."
"People who say you should write a book probably don't understand the process."
"A strong perspective is crucial; this makes a topic likely to be evergreen."
"We try to avoid books that focus solely on specific tools; they tend to have shorter lifespans."
"A book needs to be a cohesive journey, rather than a compilation of disparate voices."
"There's a need for different perspectives on important topics, even if similar titles already exist."
"Don't write a book for the royalties; focus instead on contributing to the field."
"Writing a book is awful, but it’s also an amazing gift to give yourself and others."
"Trust in the iterative process of writing; chapter one might get written last."
"The relationship with your publisher is like a marriage; you need to work well together."
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