Simon’s original contribution shows how the entire value chain of content
(production-distribution-consumption) has opened up. The volume of user-generated
content (UGC) now being produced has led to a qualitative change, with novel ways for
creators and consumers to interact, sometimes with consumers becoming fully fledged
producers. At the very least, the UGC model adds another source of production, thereby
increasing diversity. Self-publishing allows amateurs to disseminate their musical or written
work, and to select the relevant regime for allowing access to their work, which may be free
or paid.