Self-Publishing Versus Traditional: The Pros and Cons

By Dan Smith

In the past two years, self or "independent" publishing has come a long way. As mainstream or traditional publishers struggle with outdated business models, limit acquisitions and layoff staff, it can be harder than ever to have a major house publish your book. The stigma of self-published books not being taken seriously by the media has changed. Of course, a self-published book will never be reviewed in the New York Times book section, but most other types of media will interview a self-published author or write about their book.

So what are the pros and cons of self-publishing as compared to traditional publishing? Here are a few to consider.

Some positive aspects of self-publishing:

· Timing -- Generally speaking, you can have a self-published book in print and available for purchase online within months, sometimes weeks

· Cost -- It's possible to have a professionally printed and designed book for $1000 or less

· Ease of publishing -- An independent publisher will generally handle everything, from securing an ISBN to layout, printing, etc.

· Control -- The book you self-publish will be exactly what you want; no changes made by editors or cover designs forced upon you

· Rights -- The vast majority of self-publishers allow you to retain all rights to your book

· Quality -- If you're assertive and exercise quality control during the process, a self-published book can be indistinguishable from a traditionally published book in terms of cover design, layout, and overall appearance

Some potential negative elements of self-publishing:

· Quality -- Even though you may be careful about a publisher producing a high-quality book, many other self-published authors aren't. This affects you because so many reporters and producers see poorly designed and amateurish-looking self-published books, some will be tempted to overlook any non-traditionally published book.

· Availability for purchase -- there are certainly exceptions to this, but most self-published will never make it to the shelves of bookstores, at least not in a significant, nationwide manner.

· Cost -- As mentioned above, getting your book published and printed can be very inexpensive. However, most self-publishers will recommend you utilize their additional services, from editing and cover design to various marketing services and a myriad of other options. These services can be very helpful and effective, but your final cost can be much higher.

The bottom line: Research all of your options. If you have the patience to spend possibly one or two years to try and get an agent, then wait for that agent to try and sell your book to a mainstream publisher, do that. Otherwise, you might want to consider self-publishing. Just go into the process educated and with realistic expectations.