Choosing a Self-publishing Platform

Any writer who has made it to the end of a manuscript (and through the various edits) knows how hard it is to finish, however, there’s something waiting for you that’s even tougher than finishing that book – marketing and publishing it! Nevertheless, it’s not impossible and with self-publishing no longer the domain of Vanity Publishers, there are more choices available than ever before.

Smashwords

Smashwords, founded in 2008, distributes indie ebooks through most of the major retailers. The platform is free and provides marketing, distribution, and sales reporting. Authors retain control over their work and manage sampling pricing and marketing. There are over 100,000 independent authors, publishers, and agents using Smashwords, so the platform has to be doing something right.

It can be hard to find what you are looking for on the Smashwords site, but once you get going, it’s relatively easy to use. There are plenty of answers to newbie questions, and an excellent guide to pre-order distribution. One of the most appealing aspects of Smashwords is the fact that it is entirely free. All you need to do is correctly upload your ebook, and they supply a free ISBN, free conversion to multiple formats, and distribution with multiple retailers. You can also make changes to your manuscript without incurring extra charges.

One drawback is their arrangement with Amazon. According to Smashwords, “Although we have a distribution agreement with Amazon via their Kindle Direct Platform, they’re unable to receive our entire catalog.  In the meantime, we’re only distributing a few hundred titles to Amazon out of our catalog of over 370,000”. Unless you earn over $2000 on Smashwords, they won’t distribute your title to Amazon – you will have to deal directly with Amazon. Also, authors outside the US will require an ITIN. If your knees turn to water at the sight of forms in triplicate, enlist the help of a paperwork-wizard friend.

Bookbaby       

The Bookbaby website has more publishing options, but it is easy to follow. You’ll find most of your questions are only a click away from being answered, and there is a dedicated customer service line (US based). Unlike Smashwords, Bookbaby charges for publishing and cover design and will charge extra for changes made after publication. On the plus side, Bookbaby distributes on Amazon, and you retain 100% of your royalties whereas Smashwords does take a small cut. Having said that, Bookbaby can only pass on what is paid to them by retailers. Take a look at this comparison for an idea of an actual return for the dollar spend.

These are not the only self-publishing platforms available. Research as many platforms as possible to help crystallize your publishing wish list and needs. You may dive right in and publish or decide a traditional publishing deal will serve your situation best, but at least you’ll have the opportunity to make the decision yourself.