With more self-published authors entering the market each year, print-on-demand books are becoming increasingly popular. This option presents advantages and challenges for writers outside the traditional publishing realm versus printing and book fulfillment services. The main benefit of on-demand is that the system allows authors to upload their content and publish copies without upfront inventory costs. However, a downside is the potential loss of access to retail sales channels, which requires relying on direct sales, often from the on-demand printer's website only.
 
Print-on-demand is essentially a product of the digital age, driven by major online booksellers eager to expand their business profitably. It's often advertised as a simple way to become an author, which can be true, but it does come with its trade-offs. Many successful online businesses thrive on user-generated content, and print-on-demand falls into this category. A key advantage of these services is maintaining direct contact with consumers, allowing authors to build a database of potential customers for future marketing efforts and for selling additional books. Your email list is always a marketing asset,
Avoiding the print-on-demand model can lead to greater earnings for self-publishers with consistent sales. Conventional book printing offers the flexibility to sell in retail stores and online, which can be a significant perk. Selling directly through your website also helps you to establish a customer database. It opens numerous upselling opportunities for authors with a business mindset, whether it's future books, merchandise, workshops, or other offerings, all of which your readers will likely be interested in. Books often anchor brand building and permission to make and sell other products.
If you've published your first book and seen some success, it may provide valuable insights for your next project. It applies to businesses that produce books for their clients, such as a self-improvement coach providing a pre-printed journal to customers. Depending on your genre, opting out of the on-demand system might be more beneficial; for instance, if you're creating a coffee-table book, conventional publishing may offer advantages in terms of size and paper quality options. Flexibility can be crucial for certain projects because well-timed uniqueness stands out in the marketplace.