The simple problem with "good editorial" is that it has an effect akin to the engines on a supertanker. That is, it takes a while for anybody to notice; and after a while, the effect gets to be so powerful that you can actually take the engines out and chuck them overboard, and make plans for using all that spare space downstairs for cargo, before the ship slows down enough for observers to start wondering whether their cargo will actually ever get to the other side of the ocean.
At this point, most publishers (quick thinkers that they are) announce that they'll invest in a couple of tugs... and move on to the next title. A little later, the new publisher is sacked for failing to "turn round" a "successful" title. The title is closed.
The feedback link between good editorial and sales is too slow, in short. By the time good editorial has improved sales, a new publisher will be on board claiming the credit. By the time crap editorial has ruined the title's reputation, the idiot responsible will be long gone, promoted...
Guy Kewney 07-Aug-96