4 ms·

The only thing that bugs me about Hacker Monthly is that the authors of the article don't get anything more than a free subscription. Like, even a token $20 wou

by randall 14y ago

The only thing that bugs me about Hacker Monthly is that the authors of the article don't get anything more than a free subscription. Like, even a token $20 would be something. $100 would feel appropriate. I'm not sure how the cost calculus of the mag would work out if you were to do that, but it's an interesting angle. The best magazines would take the best online articles, pay some pittance, add in graphic design, print 'em and mail 'em. I think there's something to that idea.

mgkimsal 14y ago
It's sort of a chicken/egg problem, but I can't think there's not money to do it now after 2 years. subtle plug - jsmag.com and groovymag.com both do pay authors - usually $100-$150 depending on the length of the article, and authors retain the copyright to republish later. I've had two or three authors over the years who've donated articles completely free, but the majority appreciate some payment, even if it is token. One author just told me he's buying a new macbook with the payments from his articles, so, over time, they do add up :) Not trying to hijack the thread, but I understand your point about payment, and it's been one of core things that motivated the publications - paying authors for the contributions. Subtle plug 2 - we're always looking for authors. :)
- itmag 14y ago
  I run an online and print magazine which features only original content. I don't really have a secret to getting materials for free, I just don't bring up payment at all I guess :p And on the rare occasion that they do want to get paid I just complain of being broke (which is true). I think that paradoxically being a cheapskate can actually work in your favor. People getting fired up with idealism, and all that :)
Udo 14y ago
The free subscription is worth way more than a token sum of money. First, I'm convinced there is no way to provide adequate monetary compensation for articles to begin with, not at the hourly rates most of us are charging. Second, writing articles for consumption on HN shouldn't be about money, period. But most importantly: by giving me a free subscription HM is seriously expanding (and keeping) their audience and in the process they made sure I'll always be a fan.

by randall 14y ago

mgkimsal 14y ago

It's sort of a chicken/egg problem, but I can't think there's not money to do it now after 2 years. subtle plug - jsmag.com and groovymag.com both do pay authors - usually $100-$150 depending on the length of the article, and authors retain the copyright to republish later. I've had two or three authors over the years who've donated articles completely free, but the majority appreciate some payment, even if it is token. One author just told me he's buying a new macbook with the payments from his articles, so, over time, they do add up :) Not trying to hijack the thread, but I understand your point about payment, and it's been one of core things that motivated the publications - paying authors for the contributions. Subtle plug 2 - we're always looking for authors. :)

itmag 14y ago
I run an online and print magazine which features only original content. I don't really have a secret to getting materials for free, I just don't bring up payment at all I guess :p And on the rare occasion that they do want to get paid I just complain of being broke (which is true). I think that paradoxically being a cheapskate can actually work in your favor. People getting fired up with idealism, and all that :)

Udo 14y ago

The free subscription is worth way more than a token sum of money. First, I'm convinced there is no way to provide adequate monetary compensation for articles to begin with, not at the hourly rates most of us are charging. Second, writing articles for consumption on HN shouldn't be about money, period. But most importantly: by giving me a free subscription HM is seriously expanding (and keeping) their audience and in the process they made sure I'll always be a fan.