Some individuals choose to self-publish a book simply because they love sharing their knowledge and creativity without focusing much on profit. For them, the joy of writing is paramount. However, many others are driven by business objectives. Your specific goals can significantly influence your decision to use print-on-demand services or choose traditional printing and a book fulfillment company. By opting for print-on-demand, you enter the realm of content creators. In this scenario, profits from your book are divided between you and the print-on-demand provider, which usually retains a substantial portion.

One challenge with printing books in advance is predicting their sales. However, this doesn't pose an issue for many self-publishing authors who can forecast their sales accurately. If you're among those who can, you might benefit from using a full-service book printer, enabling you to enjoy higher profit margins. The primary benefit of on-demand printing is that you make no investment in inventory for order fulfillment. However, it often limits you to selling only through the printer's website, which excludes other sales avenues, such as bookstores. While there are benefits, it's also a trade-off.

Numerous authors and publishing companies prefer selling copies directly from their websites, allowing them to retain 100% of the profits. It also helps foster a direct relationship with customers. Collecting customer information sets the stage for future marketing efforts, whether for new books or other products. When using a traditional printer and collaborating with a fulfillment center, you open up these possibilities—opportunities often lost when relying solely on print-on-demand services. At the beginning of your book project, it's crucial to analyze your genre thoroughly.

Look at successful titles and determine what elements resonate with readers. If your target audience is similar, understanding their preferences can guide your writing and marketing strategies. Your work must entertain or inform them in ways that captivate their interest and encourage them to purchase or download your book. When one of your books performs well, it increases your visibility as an author, making readers more likely to buy additional books from you. Thus, ensuring your first book is high quality and profitable becomes even more essential and is a wise move in the long run.