1. Conceptualization of Product and Viability Testing
Ideas may come from prospective authors, from our customer base or from within CCH. Initial market research establishes if the concept is viable, which involves analysis of the competition, the size and accessibility of the target market, the availability of potential publishing partners (for example, sector organizations), or other opportunities to reach the intended audience. Then the concept and the right author must be brought together. Business proposals are prepared and contracts are negotiated. The publishing process can span 6 to 20 months. For example, a new software tool would take much longer to develop than a new book.

2.a Manuscript Development & Review
The author builds the manuscript from the initial outline, and may submit draft chapters for review and feedback before submitting the final manuscript on or before the agreed deadline. During this process, the author works with a developmental or acquisitions editor. Once submitted, the manuscript is reviewed for adherence to the terms of the signed contract and proposal, and a letter of acceptance is sent by the Manuscript Editor.
Permissions: authors are requested to acquire permissions for material quoted in their manuscripts taken from other original sources. CCH supplies a standard permission form for this purpose.

2.b Software/Workflow Tool Development & Review
Typically, an author or industry specialist identifies the need for an electronic tool to aid in a specific market. The product idea or opportunity requires a general description of the content and functionality of the proposed product, as well as other information related to who will use the product, how it will be used, and how it will help our customers. This information will be used as a basis to plan or map out a potential software opportunity.

An industry specialist will act as an advisor and consultant and will be involved in the development process. This will ensure that the software is designed to fill what we have identified as a gap in the market and that it will become a valuable tool for our professional market.

3.a Editorial/Production Process
The manuscript is converted to our in-house electronic editing system and assigned to an editor who formats, codes and edits the material to prepare it for print and electronic production. The editor works with our technical resource and data preparation teams to perfect the formats and styles. Galleys are returned to the author for review, and corrections are made. The work is proofread. Finally, the proofs are sent to production for printing and/or CD manufacture and/or preparation for loading on the Internet, as appropriate.

3.b Software/Workflow Tool Development Process
As with book publishing, software development requires extensive writing when creating the content associated with the tool. The author and/or the industry specialist work with our development team to submit the appropriate documentation and content to support the software, according to a defined set of business requirement specifications.
The development process involves the creation of a prototype that must undergo extensive testing. Content is integrated into the electronic product, and editorial staff review and proofread the text as required. Once the quality assurance plan has been completed and the product has met all necessary requirements, user documentation and packaging is prepared and the new product is made available to the customer.

4. Marketing & Sales
Concurrently, our marketing team builds a marketing plan and finalizes marketing materials, with the help of information supplied by the author. Marketing tools may include direct mail, e-marketing, the CCH catalogue, space advertisements in magazines, brochures, press releases and book reviews, as well as promotions at tradeshows. Pre-publication marketing may take place. New books, services or electronic products are featured in our eMonthly news alerts and posted in our eShop.
Our experienced national sales force of external and internal account managers are trained on new books, services and software, and are primed to support campaign launches.
CCH customers have access to extensive training resources (including Web cast and the CCH Online Training Centre), full technical support, and a responsive customer service department.