In the modern digital era, data has become an invaluable resource, often equated to the importance of oil in the previous century. It powers the engines of innovation, providing insights that drive decision-making processes across myriad sectors, from the sprawling landscapes of technology to the intricate world of finance. Given the pivotal role data plays, one might be led to believe that access to it, in any domain, would be relatively unhindered, especially in an age marked by rapid technological advancements.

Yet, when turning our gaze to the realm of book publishing, this assumption quickly crumbles. Despite being an industry that thrives on the written word and dissemination of information, gaining access to detailed, reliable data in publishing is surprisingly elusive. The reasons for this incongruity are manifold characterized by its diverse ecosystem and commercially sensitivity.

Moreover, the rapid evolution of the publishing world, with the advent of e-books, audiobooks, and a myriad of digital platforms, means that the landscape is constantly shifting. Traditional data collection methods may no longer be relevant, and newer methods are still in their infancy.