FTP - Consonance Integration and Automation

Common Integration Use Cases Between FTP and Consonance

1. Automated manuscript and supporting file intake from external contributors

Direction: FTP to Consonance

Publishers can use FTP/SFTP as a secure intake channel for large manuscript packages, author questionnaires, permissions documents, and high-resolution artwork submitted by authors, agents, or freelance editors. Files dropped into structured FTP folders can be automatically imported into Consonance and attached to the correct title or project record.

• Reduces manual email handling and file chasing
• Ensures editorial teams always work from the latest submitted version
• Improves traceability for contributor-delivered assets and approvals

2. Bulk metadata import for new title setup and catalog updates

Direction: FTP to Consonance

Publishing operations teams can export title metadata files from upstream systems such as ERP, rights databases, or editorial spreadsheets and transfer them via FTP into Consonance for bulk creation or update of title records. This is useful for seasonal catalog launches, imprint expansions, and backlist cleanup projects.

• Speeds up onboarding of large title lists
• Reduces data entry errors across imprints and product lines
• Supports scheduled batch updates for ISBNs, formats, pub dates, and contributor details

3. Delivery of cover art and marketing assets to production workflows

Direction: FTP to Consonance

Design agencies and marketing teams often produce large image files, jacket PDFs, and promotional media that are too large or numerous for email-based exchange. These assets can be transferred through FTP and linked in Consonance to the relevant title workflow, enabling editorial and production teams to review and approve materials in context.

• Centralizes creative asset tracking alongside editorial milestones
• Improves version control for covers, jackets, and ad materials
• Supports faster handoff between design, production, and marketing

4. Export of production schedules and title status reports to downstream partners

Direction: Consonance to FTP

Consonance can generate scheduled exports of title status, production milestones, and publication readiness reports for external vendors such as printers, typesetters, and distribution partners. These files can be deposited to FTP locations that partner systems monitor for automated ingestion.

• Eliminates repetitive manual report sharing
• Improves coordination with print and distribution vendors
• Ensures partners receive consistent, structured updates on delivery dates and file readiness

5. Automated delivery of final production files to print and manufacturing vendors

Direction: Consonance to FTP

When a title reaches production approval, Consonance can trigger the export of final print-ready PDFs, cover files, and associated production metadata to a secure FTP folder for a printer or manufacturing facility. This supports high-volume publishing operations where large files must be transferred reliably and on schedule.

• Reduces risk of sending incorrect or outdated files
• Supports deadline-driven print production workflows
• Creates a clear audit trail for file delivery and vendor acceptance

6. Batch exchange of rights and royalty support documents

Direction: Bi-directional

Rights teams can use FTP to exchange contract scans, royalty statements, and supporting documentation with Consonance, while Consonance can export rights status reports or royalty-related extracts back to FTP for finance teams or external accounting partners. This is especially valuable for publishers managing multiple territories, imprints, and licensing arrangements.

• Improves visibility into rights obligations and document history
• Supports periodic royalty processing and audit preparation
• Reduces dependency on ad hoc file sharing methods

7. Backlist and archive synchronization for long-term content management

Direction: FTP to Consonance

Publishers often maintain large archives of legacy manuscripts, artwork, and production files in file servers or partner repositories. FTP can be used to migrate or synchronize these archives into Consonance-linked records so teams can access historical assets during reprints, rights renewals, or revised editions.

• Preserves institutional knowledge and historical title assets
• Supports reissue, anniversary, and special edition workflows
• Makes legacy content easier to locate and reuse across teams

8. Scheduled exchange of publication readiness packages for multi-format release coordination

Direction: Consonance to FTP

For titles releasing in print, digital, and audio formats, Consonance can export publication readiness packages containing format-specific status, delivery dates, and asset checklists to FTP for downstream production or distribution systems. This helps coordinate simultaneous release planning across internal teams and external partners.

• Aligns editorial, production, and distribution timelines
• Improves readiness tracking across multiple formats
• Supports predictable launch execution for complex publishing programs