The New York Times reports that Philip M. Parker has written more than 200,000 books with the help of computer software he created; making him, "The most published author in the history of the planet."
Parker, a chaired professor of management science at Insead, has developed computer algorithms that collect publicly available information on a subject. Then, with help from 60 to 70 computers and six or seven programmers, he transforms the results into books. The books cover a wide range of genres, with most titles being about 150 pages. The books are printed only when a customer buys one.
Algorithm Authoring
Man "Writes" 200,000 Books Using Software
Trend Themes
1. Algorithm Authoring - Opportunity to develop software that automates the process of generating books and content using computer algorithms.
2. Data-driven Publishing - Potential to create a publishing industry that relies on algorithms and publicly available data to generate a wide range of books.
3. On-demand Printing - Disruptive potential in the printing industry by only printing books when a customer purchases one, reducing inventory costs.
Industry Implications
1. Software Development - Opportunity for software developers to create algorithms and tools specifically designed for generating books and written content.
2. Publishing - Potential for the publishing industry to adopt algorithm-based approaches to generate a variety of books, catering to different niches and interests.
3. Printing Services - Disruptive potential for printing companies to adapt to on-demand printing technologies, reducing overhead costs and optimizing book production.