10 Qualities of a Successful Textbook Author-Publisher Relationship

I've written before about what makes for a successful textbook author, and wanted now to talk about what makes for a successful textbook author-publisher relationship.

In my view, successful author-publisher relationships are those in which both sides:

1. Are deeply devoted to producing the best possible product for the market, not necessarily the highest moneymaker possible.
2. Stay focused on the people they're invested in —  the student.
3. Work together to develop a clear vision of how they can make a better book.
4. Communicate with each other openly, honestly, and professionally.
5. And regularly. Not haphazardly, but according to a mutually agreeable schedule.
6. Are always thinking of ways to improve and promote the book.
7. Bring their most reasoned and compromising self to the table.
8. Help keep each other on task.
9. Make each other a priority in their daily schedule.
10. Share a laugh and a good, stiff drink once in a while.

But that's just me.

10 Characteristics of a Successful Textbook Author

Far more people think they can author successfully than actually can. Over the years I've identified several common characteristics of the people who not only actually write a book but who also become invested in its success.

In my view, successful authors:

1. Are deeply devoted not just to teaching but also to learning.
2. Stay up-to-date on what's happening in their profession.
3. Focus on how they can teach better and make more successful students.
4. Have a clear vision of how they can make a better book.
5. Can focus fully on a single task for long periods.
6. Are open, honest, and communicative.
7. Expect more out of themselves than others.
8. Can leave their ego at the door and work toward a common goal.
9. Can put cogent, organized thoughts on paper.
10. Prefer the lighter side of life.

Just my take.