Hello readers! For today, let me take you back to the old golden days of poetry. Remember the poem, “The Road Not Taken by Robert Frost”? I hope you do because our blog starts with the same analogy Sir Frost drew. If you are thinking hard about remembering it, let me help you.
In the poem, Robert Frost says;
“Two woods diverged in a wood
I took the one less traveled by
And that has made all the difference!”
Similarly in life we often have to choose between two equivalent options. Both of them are as lucrative as the other but one has to select and go with one!
The same is the case with writing, whether you have already published a book or are looking forward to writing one. Choices are present in all parts and parcels of the writing journey!
Let’s move ahead with today’s topic – choosing between Traditional Publishing v/s Self-publishing. What is better for whom? And how you can avail yourself of the benefits of these.
Let’s start right away!
Table of Content
Understanding Traditional v/s Self-Publishing
Traditional Publishing
It is the most primitive type of publishing which has been here since times immemorial. Simply put, when an author takes the help or services of a publishing company for marketing, distribution, and other components of a book distribution umbrella. It is known as traditional publishing.
The professional experts take care of everything in their capacity to help you grow. Talking about their charges, they do charge a commission for their work but you do not need to pay anything until your sales have started. Thus, it is beneficial for newbie authors and for those who are running on a tight budget.
Self Publishing
Self Publishing as the name suggests is the publication that an author does on its own, without involving a publishing house or intermediary. You can call it direct publishing too as the author is solely responsible for writing, publishing, designing, marketing, and distributing his work.
In turn, all the acquired profit is his and he does not need to share it (like in the case of traditional publishing houses). He can also work at his own will and timeline. It is cost-effective as well because the author does all the work on his own and he/she does not need to pay for any services.
Note: There are some publications similar to the above two. Let us try to understand what these are as they often create confusion in the author’s mind. These are
- Hybrid Publishing – It is the middle point between traditional and self-publishing. Here, both the author and the publisher join hands and bear the costs as well as the associated risks. The author has to give up his control over some royalties in lieu(exchange of) the services provided by the publisher.
- Vanity Publishing – Also known as Subsidy Publishing is a mode of publishing where the author writes a manuscript and avails services of a publishing house but in this case, he also signs a contract with the other party. It is now obsolete and not in the trend.
What is the core difference between Self-Publishing and Traditional Publishing?
I hope now you have a clear idea of the key concept behind these two publishing modes and the striking differences between them. Now comes the question of which is suitable for whom and how? Head to the next segment to get the answer to this question!
Should you go for Self-Publishing or Traditional Publishing?
Traditional and Self-publishing are two sides of the same coin. Let’s take heads as traditional and tails as self-publishing. Both of them have different features, advantages, and disadvantages. It can be quite intimidating at times to choose between these two. But then what are we for? We have simplified this process for you. Take a look at our next segment.
Pros and Cons of Traditional Publishing
PROS
- A newbie author can seek professional guidance and help from traditional publishers.
- Best for those who have just started on their writing journey but don’t know where to move next in their creative journey.
- These expert publishers can help you with reaching a broader market horizon.
- If you do not have crowdfunding or resources on your own, you can go for traditional publishing houses.
CONS
- An author cannot retain 100% of his profits to himself. He has to share a designated amount with the traditional publisher.
- You have to work on a mutual timeline as decided with the publishing house. There is little freedom of your own.
Pros and Cons of Self-Publishing
PROS
- You can get your books published in a short period.
- 100% ownership rights are retained with the authors.
- You can work freely on your schedule, there is no interference from anyone else.
CONS
- No professional guidance is present in the case of self-publishing.
- There is less exposure to recognition and literary prizes.
How Can BFC Publications Packages Help You with Publishing?
BFC Publications is the pioneer in publishing services which has become a renowned name in the market. From our world-class services and affordable packages, we have something in store for everyone!
- With the packages offered by BFC Publications, you get premium designing facilities. Suppose you have started your creative journey. You know how important it is to have an aesthetic book cover and infographics in your book. At BFC, our designing experts can help you turn your imagination into reality, easily!
- Whether you are a newbie author or have been in this industry for a long time; everybody wants to have a band of loyal readers. And how can you achieve it? Through marketing and who can help you with that? BFC Publications.
- To err is to be human and this quote cannot be more suitable than in this case of editorial services. An author is bound to make mistakes and we are ready to help you at this stage too. We provide premium editing facilities that include proofreading and book formatting services.
- We understand that the last and most important step is making the books reach their designated readers. BFC Publications has a network of e-marketplaces and bookstores to ensure the availability of books across the country and abroad.
- BFC Publications believes in guiding the authors in every step they take in this creative journey and for that, we have dedicated author support services. We analyze the needs of each author, individually and then provide them with solutions suitable to their requirements.
The Bottom Line
Hey there avid readers! I hope you all are doing fine and that your book reading is going on in full swing. I also wish that all the good Gods of reading be grateful to you. May you find one interesting book after another.
With this thought, I will take a leave from you. Be right back going to finish another book.
FAQs
- Is traditional publishing worth it?
It depends upon your personal goals and the funds you wish to use for your publishing. You can either choose traditional or self-publishing based on the above criteria. Go for one who is suitable for you as an individual author.
- How to self-publish a book?
Start by writing a manuscript, then proofread it and complete the edits, create an artistic book cover, choose a book format, and find a self-publishing platform.
- Which one is better, traditional or self-publishing service, if you are running low on a budget?
If you are facing budget constraints, then self-publishing should be the ideal choice. Because it is affordable and you get to retain all the profits for yourself!
- Which one should you choose, traditional or self-publishing?
Choosing a publishing medium depends entirely on your personal goals, the work you have done, and the resources and funds you have ready to invest in your book. Check all the prerequisites of both of these publishing instruments, beforehand.
We will be bringing up such relatable and informative reads for you, till then have a good read of our blog Book Marketing Strategies – 6 Secrets For An Author To Boost Sales to get an easier way through your self-publishing journey.
