Traditional publishing vs Self-publishing is a never-ending debate. If you are a publisher, writer, or editor, you must have come across this question: Which is the better publishing option?
This is one of the most common questions we get, and there is no one-size-fits-all answer. Many different factors could possibly come into play, and the answer is not always straight.
Also, it varies from author to author. For some, self-publishing is the right choice, and for others, traditional publishing is the only option.
However, this article is for the remaining authors who need clarification on traditional publishing vs self-publishing. It is designed to help you choose and understand your side. Let’s get started.
Traditional publishing vs self-publishing:
The world of literature evolves every now and then, and authors also need to reach a crossroads when deciding how to bring their creative visions to life. The debate between traditional publishing vs self-publishing has intensified with time. Let’s understand both publishing methods before you take one side.
Traditional Publishing:
Traditional publishing is the old-school way of publishing a book, in which an author signs an agreement/contract with a publisher or a publishing agent to publish the book.
Once the agreement is signed, the publishing house is responsible for the book’s production, distribution and marketing. However, the publishing house secures an amount or share of the profits in exchange. The most important thing to note here is that the publishing house has access to established distribution networks, which can enhance the reach of the book. They also have partnerships with bookstores and libraries, which can expand the pool of opportunities for the author.
Self-Publishing:
Self-publishing is the process where the author independently publishes their work. There is no involvement of a publishing house or an agent. Here, the author controls the content, cover design, pricing and distribution channels.
The author can retain more of the royalties earned from the sale. The author has the flexibility to publish their work at their own pace. However, in self-publishing, there is always a risk of reach, and the author may need help in terms of marketing and exposure in the market.
What is better?
Well, to each their own, but let’s spill our facts and research. Traditional publishers always watch market trends and are well aware of commercial viability. However, they end up working with many authors who reach out to them. The remaining manuscripts lie in their inbox, and they do not bother looking at the details.
This is the more realistic way for aspiring authors to get the book out into the world. Well—self-publishing seems to be a superior choice.
Self-publishing always offers unparalleled creative control, better profits, and access to the market. Before making any conclusions, let’s weigh the advantages and disadvantages of traditional publishing vs self-publishing.
Pros of self-publishing:
Below are some of the common advantages of choosing to self-publish.
1. Royalties:
Well, it is all about royal treatment. Here, we are talking about royalties and not royal treatment. The author receives a larger share of the book’s sale when there is no agent or publishing house. Approximately 60-70% of the total profits. Let’s do some math:
If the retail price of the book is $12, and the royalty rate is kept at 10%, the income per book will be $1.2. Now, suppose 5000 books are sold, and the earnings will be around $6000.
Above is the total earnings of a traditionally published book. Now, let’s reverse the case for a self-published book. The retail price is $12, and the initial royalty rate is 60%, which is around $7.2; keeping the printing cost at $2.05, the income per book will be $5.45, and 5000 books will be sold. The total earnings will be $27,250 Well, now you can do the basic calculations.
2. Unparalleled freedom:
The author has all the power over the book’s content, price, design and cover.
3. Rights of the book:
The author will keep all the rights preserved, and the rights related to audiobooks, translations, sequels, series, and other sets will be maintained.
Cons of Self-Publishing:
Below are some major drawbacks of self-publishing:
1. Investment:
The author must pay upfront for everything, including editing and initial promotion.
2. Payment:
The author will have to wait for the payment of the potential earnings. There is no system for the advances.
3. Importance to the book:
The reach could be higher when it comes to self-published books. Readers will always prefer a book published by a publishing house rather than a self-published book, especially if it is by a new author.
Pros of Traditional Publishing:
Let’s look at some of the pros of traditionally published books.
1. Expertise:
Well, there are no second thoughts about the experience. Traditional publishing houses have access to professional editors, designers, and marketers who can read the manuscript and work on it. They can enhance the quality and marketability of the book without you even interfering.
2. Distribution:
The publishing houses and agents are well-connected. They have established relationships with distributors, bookstores, libraries, and literary agents and have a wider reach and exposure; within no time, they can market your book.
3. Credibility:
Now, this is important. The readers know the publishing houses, and they have credibility and prestige. Now imagine yourself as an avid reader. Would you prefer reading a book by a newbie or published by a renowned publishing house?
Well, now you can understand the difference.
Cons of Traditional Publishing:
1. The process:
Book publishing in USA or anywhere else is a highly competitive market. The publishing house may reject your manuscript. As an author, you must be mentally prepared for this.
2. No Control:
Yes, it is true. As an author, you will have to make many creative decisions. You have to charge the publishing house for the content, cover design, and pricing.
3. Royalties:
Well, we have talked about it. Traditional publishing houses typically offer lower royalty rates, as they are in charge of the production, distribution and marketing.
Wrapping up:
Ultimately, it is your decision as an author to self-publish a book or get it published by a traditional book publishing house. Well, publishing a book is no joke. An author works day and night to write and puts all the effort into making it successful. However, it is your blood and swear; therefore, you must be mindful about publishing it. Yes, self-publishing empowers authors with all the power, speed, royalties and other perks.
But, on the other hand, it requires additional effort. Traditional publishing provides professional support, distribution and credibility. But again, the selection process is competitive. Hence, you need to work on your manuscript and ensure it reaches the concerned person. We are sure you do not want your creative piece to lie in the spam. And about traditional publishing vs self-publishing; it is better that you figure out all the factors and take your decision wisely.
