What If Medium Got Rid Of Publications

Summary

The article contemplates the potential consequences of Medium eliminating publications, reflecting on their past importance, recent de-prioritization, and the emergence of new publications despite challenges.

Abstract

The author proposes a thought experiment regarding the impact on Medium if all publications were to be discontinued. Publications have been integral to the platform, significantly contributing to the author's early success. However, Medium appears to be shifting focus away from publications, reducing funding that has led to the closure of some large and small publications. Despite this, new publications continue to emerge. The author, while acknowledging the value of publications, has previously advocated for self-publishing and now invites readers to consider what Medium would be like without publications, suggesting a potential change in the platform's dynamics.

Opinions

The author values publications as they were instrumental in their initial success on Medium.
There is a perception that Medium is deprioritizing publications, as evidenced by funding cuts leading to the closure of some.
The author has mixed feelings about publications, having written a popular piece on the benefits of self-publishing.
Despite the challenges faced by some publications, the ecosystem is dynamic with new ones still being created.
The author is curious about the potential transformation of Medium's landscape in the absence of publications.

All of them. No more publications.

Woman photo created by wayhomestudio — www.freepik.com

I like these thought experiments. My first one received so many comments that I thought we could do another one.

Here it is.

What do you think would happen if Medium shut down all publications tomorrow?

Publications are a huge part of this platform. They were a huge part of my early success. I was lucky to get into a few of the largest pubs with my first posts.

Lately, though, it seems Medium is deprioritizing publications. They cut funding for many. As a result, a few big and popular ones closed their doors. A few smaller followed.

On the other hand, there are new pubs popping up every day. I’m not against pubs at all, although I wrote a quite popular post on why you should consider self-publishing.

What would Medium look like without publications?

What If Medium Got Rid Of Publications

All of them. No more publications.

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