A book is an example of supply chain product. It starts from the creative phase: the author writes the story, taking a variable period of time to complete the work. Then, he proposes his work to a publisher.
When a publisher decides to publish it, it takes place the proofreading phase: in a constant confrontation with the entrepreneurial mind of the publisher, the author revises as little as possible, he hopes, his story.
Simplifying some other steps, you go to the press. Omitting the digital editions of books, we go to the publication that is accompanied by the promotion and sale of the product.
These are all basic steps to finally get your hands on a good book, that is apparently the final product of a supply chain but that in turn can open another possible s. c., more immaterial than the first: word of mouth, through which people transmit judgments, advice, ideas.