1 – It looks like Elsevier is outsourcing the work. This seems like a good choice as it is not a core competency. We have spent a massive about of time and money (for us) on figuring out how content can be usefully integrated into a technologists workflow. We are only now beginning to understand it such that we can make intelligent investments where we feel comfortable about the ROI. So working with folks that have the core competency makes sense.

2 – Deep data analysis and a willingness to make mistakes and admit mistakes have been made is essential to success. This often includes “not listening to your customers.” To give you a sense for what I mean consider the words of Henry Ford -

Billions of dollars are at stake and the leaders of these initiatives will be well served to place many bets (not only in technology…business models…). Massive data stores on behavior are available and should be used to make the best decisions which go well beyond convening user groups or advisory counsels.

3 – This is a space that is more than ripe for “disruption.” The “Innovators Dilemma” scenario will play out here. While I cannot yet name the disruptor I am sure there are many that are thinking deeply about coming into this space and capturing its attractive margins. This argues for many bets even if they compromise near term margins.