In recent years, the rise of self-publishing has been remarkable, largely thanks to the advent of print on demand (POD) technology. This has made it easier than ever for authors to publish their works without the need for large upfront investments. Whether you’re an aspiring author or a seasoned writer looking to self-publish, understanding the best platforms for selling print on demand books is crucial.
What is Print on Demand?
Print on Demand (POD) is a printing technology and business process where books are printed only when an order is received. This method eliminates the need for large print runs, storage, and reduces financial risk for authors.
Benefits of Print on Demand
- Zero Upfront Investment: One of the most significant advantages of print on demand (POD) is the elimination of upfront costs associated with printing large quantities of books. Traditional publishing often requires authors to invest substantial amounts of money to print hundreds or thousands of copies, which can be a financial burden, especially for new authors. With POD, you only pay when an order is placed. This means you don’t need to worry about having a large sum of money ready before your book even hits the market.
- No Storage Requirements: Another benefit of POD is the elimination of storage needs. Since books are printed only when an order is received, there’s no need to store unsold copies. This not only saves on storage costs but also protects authors from potential losses due to unsold stock. Imagine having boxes of books cluttering your living space or paying for a storage unit – with POD, this concern simply vanishes.
- Scope of Rectification: Print on demand offers authors the flexibility to make changes to their manuscript anytime before placing an order. This is a significant advantage because it allows you to correct any errors or update content without the stress of having already printed hundreds of copies. Traditional publishing doesn’t offer this level of flexibility; once the print run is completed, you’re stuck with any mistakes until the next edition.
- Beginner Friendly: For new authors, POD is particularly appealing. It allows you to start with small print runs and scale up based on demand. This means you can test the waters by printing a few copies and seeing how your book is received before committing to larger quantities. This gradual approach reduces risk and financial strain, making it easier for beginners to navigate the publishing world. POD platforms often provide user-friendly interfaces and tools to help authors with the publishing process, further easing the journey for first-time publishers.
Top Platforms for Selling Print on Demand Books
Here is a detailed look at some of the best platforms for selling POD books online, based on their services, reach, and author support.
1. Amazon KDP (Kindle Direct Publishing)
Website: Amazon KDP
- Services Offered: Cover design, global online distribution, formatting tools.
- Pros: Extensive reach through Amazon’s marketplace, integrated tools for book design and formatting, transparent royalty calculations.
- Cons: High shipping costs for international orders as printing is not yet available in India.
2. IngramSpark
Website: IngramSpark
- Services Offered: Book design, global distribution, marketing support.
- Pros: Extensive global distribution network, professional design services.
- Cons: Initial setup fees, complex interface for beginners.
3. Lulu
Website: Lulu
- Services Offered: Formatting, typesetting, global distribution.
- Pros: User-friendly interface, flexible printing options, competitive pricing.
- Cons: Limited marketing support.
4. Notion Press
Website: Notion Press
- Services Offered: Editing, cover design, distribution on Amazon and Flipkart.
- Pros: Affordable packages, additional services like marketing and distribution through their website.
- Cons: Limited global reach compared to platforms like Amazon KDP.
5. Pothi
Website: Pothi
- Services Offered: Editing, typesetting, distribution.
- Pros: Affordable pricing, good for regional languages.
- Cons: Limited global distribution.
How Print on Demand Works
- Upload Manuscript: The journey of bringing your book to life with print on demand (POD) starts with uploading your manuscript. This is where you take the polished work you’ve poured your heart into and prepare it for the world. The chosen POD platform will have a user-friendly interface where you can easily upload your manuscript along with your cover design. This step is crucial because it ensures that your book looks exactly how you envision it. Whether it’s an intricate fantasy novel or a heartfelt memoir, every detail matters.
- Set Pricing: Once your manuscript and cover are uploaded, the next step is setting the price for your book. This involves considering the printing costs and the royalties you wish to earn from each sale. It’s a balancing act – you want your book to be affordable for readers while also ensuring you get a fair share for your efforts. The platform usually provides tools and calculators to help you determine the best pricing strategy. This stage gives you control over your book’s marketability and your potential earnings.
- Order Processing: Here’s where the magic of POD really shines. When a reader places an order for your book, the platform springs into action. Instead of having stacks of unsold books gathering dust, your book is printed only when someone orders it. This not only saves resources but also ensures that every copy that gets printed is already sold. The book is then packaged and shipped directly to the customer, taking the logistical burden off your shoulders.
- Royalty Payments: Finally, as your book starts to reach readers, you begin to see the fruits of your labor in the form of royalty payments. These are typically processed monthly or quarterly, depending on the platform. You can track your sales and earnings through the platform’s dashboard, giving you a clear view of how your book is performing. This step is a rewarding part of the process, where you get to see tangible returns from your creative work.
Considerations for Choosing a Platform
When diving into the world of print on demand (POD), selecting the right platform is crucial. Here are some key factors to keep in mind to make an informed decision.
- Audience Reach: The broader the distribution network, the greater your potential readership. Platforms like Amazon KDP and IngramSpark boast extensive global reach, making your book available to readers across continents. A wider audience means more opportunities for your book to be discovered and purchased.
- Services Offered: Beyond just printing, many POD platforms offer additional services that can significantly enhance the quality and marketability of your book. Look for services like editing, cover design, and marketing support. For instance, Notion Press and Lulu provide comprehensive packages that help you polish your manuscript and create an eye-catching cover, which can be crucial for attracting readers and boosting sales.
- Cost: The financial aspect is always a critical consideration. Compare setup fees, printing costs, and royalty structures across different platforms to find the most cost-effective option. While some platforms might have low upfront costs, their printing fees might be higher. Balancing these costs against your budget is essential to ensure you get the best deal without compromising on quality.
- Ease of Use: For first-time authors, navigating the complexities of publishing can be daunting. A user-friendly interface can save you a lot of time and reduce frustration. Platforms like Amazon KDP and Lulu are known for their intuitive dashboards, which guide you step-by-step through the publishing process. This ease of use can make the journey smoother and more enjoyable, allowing you to focus more on your writing and less on technical hurdles.
By considering these factors, you can choose a POD platform that not only meets your immediate publishing needs but also supports your long-term goals as an author. Each platform has its strengths, so weigh these aspects carefully to find the one that aligns best with your vision and resources.