Executive Summary

Authored is transforming the traditional querying system used by authors and literary agents through a centralized database powered by advanced technologies like Next.js, Nest.js, GCP, and MongoDB. By creating the world’s largest query database with features like quality scores, query tags, and comparable author analysis, Authored empowers agents to efficiently identify promising manuscripts while providing authors with actionable feedback. This innovative solution addresses inefficiencies in the current querying system, delivering unparalleled value to both authors and agents.

Client Background

Authored is a groundbreaking platform focused on revolutionizing how literary agents discover and connect with talented authors. Their vision is to replace outdated, inefficient querying systems with a dynamic, tech-driven approach that benefits all parties in the literary ecosystem.

Authored’s platform enables agents to proactively search for manuscripts that align with their preferences and provides authors with valuable insights into their submissions. By hosting competitions and fostering constructive feedback, Authored not only enhances discoverability for authors but also supports continuous improvement in their craft.

Business Problem

The traditional querying system suffers from several inefficiencies:

• Lack of Feedback for Authors: Many authors spend years submitting queries without receiving constructive feedback, leaving them uncertain about how to improve or why their work may not resonate with agents.
• Time-Intensive Process for Agents: Agents often sift through thousands of queries manually, struggling to identify high-potential manuscripts efficiently.
• nefficient Manuscript Matching: Without a centralized database or robust filtering tools, agents miss out on manuscripts that could align perfectly with their preferences, simply because the submissions don’t surface effectively.

These challenges result in frustration for authors and inefficiencies for agents, hindering the discovery of talented writers and quality manuscripts.

Solution Approach

Authored tackled these challenges by developing a centralized query database that streamlines the querying process for both authors and agents.

• Advanced Filtering and Search Capabilities: The database uses quality scores, query tags, and comparable author analysis to help agents filter their query inboxes and identify manuscripts that align with their interests. This proactive approach ensures agents spend less time searching and more time engaging with high-potential authors.
• Real-Time Feedback for Authors: Authored provides authors with detailed insights into their queries, including information on who is reading their submissions and how far they’ve progressed. This feedback loop empowers authors to refine their work and submit stronger queries over time.
• Competitions and Feedback Opportunities: Authored hosts competitions where authors can showcase their talent. High-performing manuscripts gain visibility, while constructive feedback from industry professionals helps others improve their writing.
• Inefficient Manuscript Matching: Without a centralized database or robust filtering tools, agents miss out on manuscripts that could align perfectly with their preferences, simply because the submissions don’t surface effectively. These challenges result in frustration for authors and inefficiencies for agents, hindering the discovery of talented writers and quality manuscripts.

Solution Approach

Authored tackled these challenges by developing a centralized query database that streamlines the querying process for both authors and agents.

• Competitions and Feedback Opportunities:

Implementation

The development of Authored’s platform involved the use of cutting-edge tools and technologies to create a seamless, scalable, and efficient solution.

Tools and Technologies Used

Development Tools:

• VS Code, Figma, Sublime, Trello: Enabled efficient development workflows, UI/UX design, and task management.

Technologies:

• Next.js and Nest.js: Provided a powerful and scalable framework for frontend and backend development.
• Google Cloud Platform (GCP): Delivered robust infrastructure for hosting and scaling the platform.
• Vercel: Enabled quick deployment and ensured optimal performance for the platform’s frontend.
• Mixpanel: Provided analytics to track user behavior and platform performance.
• MongoDB: Served as the primary database, managing complex queries and large volumes of data effectively.

Conclusion

Authored’s innovative platform has redefined the querying landscape, addressing long-standing inefficiencies and frustrations for both authors and agents. By leveraging modern technologies and a user-centric approach, Authored has created a scalable, efficient, and transparent system that fosters talent discovery and creative growth.

This revolutionary approach positions Authored as a leader in the literary industry, bridging the gap between talented authors and discerning agents like never before