Revitalising University Presses in Kenya through Digital Technologies

Abstract

Purpose: This study explores the extent to which university presses in Kenya have adopted digital publishing technologies to enhance competitiveness and sustainability, highlighting the associated merits and demerits.

Methodology: The study employed a convergent mixed-methods approach with a survey research design. Study participants were selected through a census of 43 university press staff drawn from seven university presses in Kenya. Data was collected using questionnaires and interview schedules.

Findings: Study findings reveal that most university presses in Kenya still use traditional publishing technologies, and their publications are in print format. The benefits of using digital technologies include flexibility, cost-effectiveness, multitasking, accessibility, easy sharing of publications and high-quantity production. The study identified initial investment and maintenance costs, stiff competition, changing demand, unskilled personnel, and piracy as the significant challenges faced by university presses in Kenya in digital publishing.

Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: The authors recommend increased funding for university presses, staff training on digital technologies in publishing, use of official copyright notices by publishers, digital watermarks and acquisition of Digital Rights Management (DRM) software to fight online piracy.