The idea of beacon is really good, but I agree with PP that the implementation needs work.
If I am going to buy one of these authors work, I need to see that work. You need a front page, with the best stories this day from your selection of writers (for free). People will come back for that page, creating stickyness, a feeling of personal relationship with frequent featured writers, and sales.
That might get you into google news, or linked on sites like this, so people hear about you.
Also, I think giving access to the whole network dilutes the product. I don't know what other model to suggest.
Oh, and if you are paying these people, you might hope to be able to write to them and suggest they cover particular topics.
If I am going to buy one of these authors work, I need to see that work. You need a front page, with the best stories this day from your selection of writers (for free). People will come back for that page, creating stickyness, a feeling of personal relationship with frequent featured writers, and sales.
That might get you into google news, or linked on sites like this, so people hear about you.
Also, I think giving access to the whole network dilutes the product. I don't know what other model to suggest.
Oh, and if you are paying these people, you might hope to be able to write to them and suggest they cover particular topics.