The important part was sticking to them and not just using them as a feeble bargaining chip.
Negotiations always come down to strength of need and best alternatives.
It seems Elsevier overplayed their hand. They could have given in, but then everyone would demand the same.
They probably assume it'll take other unis years to be able to get rid of them, so it's better to keep milking them for now. Once enough leave, they'll change their tunes though (by which time it may be too late).
Negotiations always come down to strength of need and best alternatives.
It seems Elsevier overplayed their hand. They could have given in, but then everyone would demand the same.
They probably assume it'll take other unis years to be able to get rid of them, so it's better to keep milking them for now. Once enough leave, they'll change their tunes though (by which time it may be too late).