Conceptualization and Announcement (2 weeks)

•    The editor conceptualizes the theme and scope of the anthology.
•    The call for submissions is crafted, outlining the theme, submission guidelines, and deadline.
•    The partnerships team researches and reach out to literary websites, writing communities, social groups, and mailing lists for collaboration and support.
•    The call for submissions is announced through various channels, including literary websites, social media platforms, writing communities, and relevant mailing lists.
•    Social media team 
•    Website team creates website to include all functionalities like submission manager, submission reminder, etc.

Editor(s): Responsible for developing the theme and scope of the anthology, crafting the call for submissions, and overseeing the project.

Submission Period (months 1-2)

•    – Authors submit their stories according to the guidelines outlined in the call for submissions.
•    – Submissions are acknowledged through an automated email or personalized response.

Editorial Assistants or Submissions Coordinators: Handle the organization and management of submitted stories, including tracking submissions, sending acknowledgements, and responding to author queries.

Initial Review and Selection (month 3)

•    – The editorial team reviews the submitted stories based on their adherence to the theme, quality of writing, and emotional impact.
•    – Stories that meet the criteria are shortlisted for further consideration.
•    – Authors of selected stories are notified of their acceptance and provided with a publication agreement or release form to sign.

Editor(s) and/or Reviewers: Read and evaluate the submitted stories based on the established criteria and make decisions regarding the shortlisting and acceptance of stories.

Editing and Revision (month 4)

•    – Accepted authors work closely with the editor or assigned editors to revise and refine their stories.
•    – Editors provide feedback on structure, style, characterization, and other aspects to enhance the overall quality of the anthology.
•    – Multiple rounds of editing and revisions may take place to ensure the stories are polished and aligned with the anthology’s vision. 

Editor(s): Work closely with accepted authors to provide feedback, suggestions, and guidance for revisions to enhance the quality and coherence of the stories.

Compilation and Arrangement (month 5)

•    – The finalized, edited stories are arranged in a coherent order, considering factors such as narrative flow, emotional progression, and thematic resonance.
•    – The anthology’s overall structure and any additional interstitial or introductory material are determined.

Editor(s): Determine the order and arrangement of the finalized stories to create a cohesive narrative flow that aligns with the anthology’s vision.

Typesetting and Design (month 6)

•    – The text of the anthology, including the stories, author bios, and any introductory or concluding material, is typeset and formatted for print and digital publication.
•    – The design elements, such as cover design and interior layout, are created or commissioned to visually complement the anthology’s theme. 

Typesetter/Layout Designer: Responsible for formatting and designing the interior layout of the anthology, ensuring readability and visual appeal.

Cover Designer: Creates or collaborates on the cover design, incorporating thematic elements and aesthetic considerations.

Proofreading and Quality Assurance (month 7)

   – A thorough proofreading process is conducted to catch any remaining errors or inconsistencies in the text.

   – The designed layout and typeset pages are reviewed to ensure they meet the desired standards of aesthetics and readability.

Proofreaders: Conduct a meticulous review of the text to identify and correct any errors, inconsistencies, or formatting issues.

Cover Finalization (month 8)

•    – The cover design is finalized, incorporating feedback from the editorial team and, if applicable, the author(s).
•    – The front and back covers, spine, and any additional cover elements are prepared and approved. 

Cover Designer: Finalizes the cover design based on feedback from the editorial team and, if applicable, the author(s).

Printing and Publication (month 9)

   – The finalized manuscript and cover files are sent to the selected printing and distribution channels.

   – The printing and binding process takes place, ensuring high-quality physical copies of the anthology.

   – Simultaneously, digital versions, such as e-books or audiobooks, are prepared and formatted for distribution.

Print Production Team: Coordinates the printing, binding, and physical production of the anthology.

Digital Formatting Specialist: Prepares and converts the anthology into various digital formats (e-books, audiobooks) for distribution.

Promotion and Marketing (months 7-11)

    – The anthology’s release date is determined, and a marketing plan is created to generate awareness and interest among readers.

    – Promotional activities may include author interviews, blog tours, social media campaigns, book signings, and collaborations with literary influencers.

    – Review copies are sent to relevant reviewers, book bloggers, and literary publications to generate reviews and media coverage.

Marketing Coordinator: Develops and executes a marketing plan, including online and offline promotional activities, author events, and collaborations with influencers.

Publicist: Handles media relations, press releases, and outreach to secure reviews and media coverage.

Distribution and Sales (month 10)

    – The printed copies and digital editions are made available for purchase through various distribution channels, such as online retailers, independent bookstores, and digital platforms.

    – Sales and distribution efforts are monitored, and appropriate steps are taken to ensure the availability and visibility of the anthology.

Distribution Coordinator: Manages the logistics of distributing the anthology to various channels, including online retailers, bookstores, and digital platforms.

Sales Team: Monitors sales performance, negotiates distribution agreements, and ensures the availability and visibility of the anthology.

Author Copies and Recognition (month 10- )

    – All accepted authors receive their complimentary personal copies of the published anthology, as promised in the call for submissions.

    – The contributions of the authors are recognized through acknowledgments in the anthology, author bios, and other promotional materials.

Fulfillment Coordinator: Oversees the distribution of complimentary author copies and ensures accurate delivery to the accepted authors.

Acknowledgments and Bios Editor: Compiles and verifies author information for inclusion in the anthology, such as acknowledgments and author bios.

Post-Publication Engagement (month 11- )

    – The editor and  publishing team engage with readers and the writing community through social media, author events, and participation in literary festivals to further promote the anthology.

    – Reviews and feedback from readers are collected and shared to encourage ongoing discussions and support for the anthology and its authors.

Social Media Manager: Manages social media accounts and engages with readers, authors, and the writing community to maintain ongoing discussions and support for the anthology.

Event Coordinator: Organizes author events, book signings, and literary festival appearances to further promote the anthology and facilitate author-reader interactions.