7 Reasons to Self-Publish
1. Time
Most traditional publishing houses work on a long production cycle. Once you approve your cover and text proofs, we can have your books completed and ready to ship in only 20 business days. RUSH service of 12 business days is available.
2. Control
A book is a reflection of the author. Self-publishing gives you the final word on the direction of your book. The decisions are exclusively yours and not limited by third parties with intentions and interests different from your own.
3. Profit
Since you, the author, will primarily handle your own promotion, why not self-publish and earn a profit of 40 - 400%? A large publisher finances a project but may only offer a 5 - 15% royalty. If your book becomes a hit, publishers may come calling. Your high profit margin will give you the upper hand in negotiations.
4. Possession
As a self-publisher, you own all rights to your book. If you use a traditional publishing house, they will own all rights. If they lose interest in your book, you will not be able to print additional copies unless you purchase those rights.
5. Niche
Because your book may fill a niche that has not been met, you can test the market by printing a small quantity of books. Books specifically published for a smaller audience may not be found in the mass market because traditional publishing houses feel the demand is not great enough to warrant a large press run. If you are an expert in a field and understand that market, who better to self-publish and sell than yourself!
6. Locality
Books about local or regional topics, such as historical books, are generally produced by local authors in short-run quantities. Large publishers will decline publishing these books because of uncertain or limited sales potential.
7. Legacy
Making money is not the only reason to publish. Sharing what you have learned or leaving a legacy are other admirable motives. A book is an expression of yourself and your experiences.