How Moving Copyediting Early Saved ARC Dates and Boosted Preorders

Project Overview

Book Type: Nonfiction, US market
Objective: Deliver an agent-ready manuscript on schedule and launch preorders/ARCs without delays

Challenge

The author’s timeline placed copyediting after cover concepting. In traditional schedules, this sequencing risked a delay in ARC delivery, which could impact early reviews, library requests, and preorder signals. Delays at this stage often create ripple effects that affect marketing and retailer deadlines.

Solution Implemented by Estorytellers

• We advised shifting copyediting earlier in the workflow, before finalizing cover design.

• Established a dependency chart to ensure editorial and design steps did not overlap.

• Conducted weekly 20-minute stand-ups to track progress and accountability.

• Maintained a change log documenting task owners, deadlines, and adjustments.

Outcome

• Eliminated a projected 10-day delay.

• ARC-ready files were delivered on schedule.

• Preorder campaigns launched as planned, securing early visibility and media coverage.

Key Takeaway

Careful sequencing of editorial and production stages prevents delays and protects early market signals. Estorytellers’ timeline expertise ensures authors can meet critical milestones efficiently.