Many authors mistake independent publishing and self-publishing as the same publishing pathway. However, in reality, there is a big difference. Independent publishing is similar to traditional publishing in that it is a joint partnership between author and publisher. In independent publishing, the publisher covers most production expenses. Self-publishing, however, places full responsibility on the author. Authors who self-publish must manage the publishing process from start to finish.
Benefits and Challenges of Independent Publishing
Independent publishing offers authors the opportunity to work closely with a publishing professional while maintaining more hands-on involvement in their book’s publication journey. Indie publishing is often best for authors who are looking to publish their book within a specialized market (IBPA Map). Authors should also understand the financial structure of indie—or traditional—publishing. Publishers typically take a large cut of your profit, so it is beneficial for authors to have an understanding of their profits. Before taking the independent route, consider these common challenges:
- Your book must align with the publisher’s existing audience to generate strong profits and royalties, and if it does not make a profit, then you will not have royalty revenue past the advance (if there is one).
- You may need to negotiate directly with the publisher, which can be outside some authors’ comfort zones (“IBPA Publishing Map: IBPA Guide to Publishing Models and Author Pathways” 6).
- The publisher may retain partial rights to your book (“IBPA Publishing Map: IBPA Guide to Publishing Models and Author Pathways” 6).
Authors who choose independent publishing must realize that independent is not self-publishing and it is not entirely traditional publishing either. It is its own pathway with its own challenges. If you’re interested in learning more about independent publishing, check out IBPA’s (Independent Book Publishers Association) website.
Benefits and Challenges of Self-Publishing
Self-publishing appeals to writers who want full creative control over their book through the publishing process. Some authors prefer this method of publishing because it allows authors to shape their book exactly as they envision it without needing approval from a publisher. Self-publishing also means that authors own all the rights their book. Authors should consider the following responsibilities before choosing this pathway (based on the IBPA Map):
- You must learn how to build an audience.
- You must obtain your own ISBN for your title.
- You must fund publishing expenses out of pocket, including editing, cover design, layout, printing, and marketing costs.
Self-publishing has led to success for many authors, but it demands consistent effort and commitment that goes far beyond the launch date of your title. Authors take on the role of spokesperson for their book by promoting at conferences, developing a marketing strategy, and building an audience. It can take a lot of time, which is one of the reasons that authors choose to go with a publisher (whether it be traditional, independent, or hybrid).
How to Decide Which Publishing Option Is Right for You
It can be daunting to decide what publishing route to take, especially when you are starting your journey as a writer. The best path depends on your goals.
Due to the nature of self-publishing, it is often a pathway that self-starters and entrepreneurs gravitate towards. It is also important to note that because this pathway is self-funded, it takes a budget to pay the costs associated with publishing a title (I”IBPA Publishing Map: IBPA Guide to Publishing Models and Author Pathways” 15). If you prefer control over the publishing timeline, enjoy working alone, or already understand the publishing landscape, self-publishing may work well for you.
Independent publishing may fit authors who want professional support without having to fully self-fund their books. It is important to note that many independent publishers require authors to do their own marketing (“IBPA Publishing Map: IBPA Guide to Publishing Models and Author Pathways” 15).
Finally, keep in mind that you are not required to publish your books via the same path every time. Plenty of authors start with self-publishing and later work with a publisher, and other do the opposite (“IBPA Publishing Map: IBPA Guide to Publishing Models and Author Pathways” 17). The most important choice is the one that helps bring your title into the world.
Do you have any questions about independent publishing or self-publishing? Share them in the comments below.
Sources:
“IBPA Publishing Map: IBPA Guide to Publishing Models and Author Pathways.” IBPA Online, February 2024, https://cdn.ymaws.com/www.ibpa-online.org/resource/resmgr/files/IBPApublishingMAP-Feb28-2024.pdf. PDF Download.
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