I couldn't think of a more enticing title than 'Publishing dissertation research' - but it's more interesting than it sounds...

Hello there

First of all, I hope that I'm putting this in the right forum. Sorry if it's not.

To introduce myself I'm a long-time follower of the site and very occasional poster. Chuck Palahniuk was one of the first writers that really excited me and I don't really consider it an exaggeration to say that if I hadn't read Survivor back in 2004 I wouldn't be where I am today...

... which is asking for your help. I'm currently finishing up my postgrad degree in book publishing and I'm working on a dissertation that is looking at how the traditional publishing process is evolving now that authors have the ability to build up their own following through online means. I'm also looking at the question from the author's point of view and considering the many services, communities and sources of advice for authors that now exist online.

My methodology is taking the form of collecting case studies and then speaking to figures in the industry about my findings. When I was coming up with my list of people to contact, The Cult was very near the top as I know what a strong and friendly community it is and I know that there is a wealth of experience relating to my subject.

If anyone would be interested in taking part in an email interview then I would be very grateful. It doesn't matter what position you are in, I'd love to speak to anyone about their writing, how they use online writing sites, whether they put any of their work up online in any form, what their opinion of the online writing community is, what advice they've ever been given about building a following online via blogs, etc, etc.

(Boring stuff: I have a confidentiality agreement that I can send to anyone interested that sets out how the information will be used, how it will be stored and who will see it)

Anyone that is interested please PM me or email josephroche770@hotmail.com

Thanks for your time everyone,
Joe Roche