by Marsha Ford

Created on: January 03, 2009

It is possible to start a publishing company, but the real issue is whether or not you can start and maintain a viable, good publishing company. The process and requirements of publishing are extensive, exacting, and require far more than simply putting words on pages. Publishing as an industry is fiercely competitive and unforgiving. Think seriously about your needs, goals, resources, and commitment before you consider starting your own publishing company.

To produce a single, quality book requires high-quality writing, flawless editing, interior layout and design expertise, and exemplary cover design skills. It also requires an understanding of publishing standards, such as when you do or don't need an ISBN or CIP, how to obtain them, or even in what stage of your publishing effort you should acquire them. And none of this touches on what to do once your book is ready for publication.

What are the accepted binding and paper standards that separate an inferior book from a marketable one? What arrangements will you make for printing, warehousing, and distribution? Are you able to front the high costs to produce enough copies of your book? Yes, print on demand allows for smaller print runs, eliminates the need for warehousing, and addresses the issue of distribution, but only if you plan to remain a small publisher that does not sell books through the major brick and mortar venues such as Barnes and Noble.

What is your marketing plan? How will you promote your books and how much time and money can you realistically commit? Can you afford the often considerable lag in time between publishing your books and earning any money from them?

Will you publish only your own works or the works of other authors? If you plan to publish other authors' works, what contract arrangements will you make? Outright ownership purchases? Royalty basis? How will you pay your authors? What insurance do you obtain to protect yourself from any liabilities incurred from others' works or your own? And how much coverage will you need?

Yes, it is possible to start and run your own publishing company, but don't go into it blind or unprepared. If you are serious about starting your own company, the first step is to thoroughly educate yourself on the process and requirements.

For learning more about publishing and starting your own publishing company, there are excellent resources, such as Dan Poynter's The Self-Publishing Manual, which provides detailed answers to many of the questions posed here. Also look to small and independent publisher associations such as The Independent Book Publishers Association, which offers training and resources for publishing, free and membership based, as well as benefits for those who take the leap into starting their own publishing companies. Join a local publisher association, and if you're willing to go the long-haul, considering working part-time or interning with a small publishing company.

Arm yourself well, and be prepared for a large commitment of your time, money, and resources. With knowledge, careful planning, and determination it is possible to start and run your own successful publishing company.

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