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Assessing self-publishing vs. traditional publishing.

When comparing whether to send your manuscript to a traditional publisher or to publish it yourself, it is important to assess what you are looking for from the publishing experience. Here is a comparison of the two forms of publishing:

1. Speed. Publishing is slow in any case compared to other businesses. Self-publishing, however, is faster than traditional publishing. From the time you complete a book, you can begin the process of printing and selling it immediately if you self-publish. In traditional publishing, you need to send the manuscript to agents or publishers. In each case, they could keep it for several months while making a decision whether to take it on. Once a publisher decides to publish your book, it usually takes eighteen months for them to get it to the public.

2. Control. With self-publishing you have complete control of the title of the book, the design of the cover of the book and the content of the book. You are your own editor and make all the final decisions. In traditional publishing, you will be assigned an editor who will guide you through the changes the publishing house will expect in the content of your book. In addition, the publishing house usually has total control over the name of the book and the design of the cover.

3. Money. In self-publishing, you will have responsibility for the cost of the book. You will have to pay the printer and all marketing costs. However, once the book begins to sell and you earn back what you put into it, you will earn more per book than you will from a traditional publisher. In self-publishing you will keep all of the profits. In traditional publishing you will earn a percentage (usually 10% to 15%) of the profits made from your book. However, traditional publishing houses usually give an advance against sales. This is an amount that you will be given up front for signing with a publishing house.

4. Distribution. Traditional publishing comes out on top with distribution usually. They have access to all the big book stores and distributors, and they can ensure a wider distribution for your book at no cost to you. In self-publishing, the writer must make the contacts and distribute the book. In many cases, book stores are reluctant to carry self-published books. The on-line markets are leveling this field somewhat.

5. Marketing. In both cases, most of the marketing falls to the writer. You are the one who will be responsible for sending out bookmarks or advertisement for your book. And, you will be responsible with scheduling book signings. Gone are the days where publishers financed elaborate book tours.

It's your choice to determine what is best for you and for the release of your book.

Learn more about this author, Lou Belcher.
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