Be it traditional publishing or self-publishing, the process of getting your book published follows these similar steps.

Previously on our blog, we’ve discussed about the different methods of publishing a book. We hope it has been useful for you or has at least paved the way for sound decision making. This week, let’s take a look at how publishing is usually done.

We understand that this process may be hard work, and at times daunting – you just don’t know where to start! But it can be broken down into smaller and more manageable steps. Since we’ve launched our self-publishing platform, we figure a step-by-step guide will be helpful, especially for first-time authors.

Be it traditional publishing or self-publishing, the process of getting your book published follows these similar steps:

1. Development

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This process typically involves acquiring exclusive content and intellectual property rights from authors. If you’re a self-publishing author, this stage is all about writing a page-turning book.

2. Editorial

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The authors work may be further refined by commissioned editor; whereby titles, headlines as well as the copy are edited to match the style and grammatical requirements of each target market.

3. Design

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The book is then given character, with a cover design, appropriate fonts, and a specific layout that determines how each chapter begins and ends.

4. Production

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Be it online or offline publishing, the production stage commences upon artwork approval. For online publishing, files will be converted into .epub or other e-book file formats and uploaded on the respective e-book publishing platforms, such as Amazon, Apple iBookstore, Blurb, etc. Offline publishing, on the other hand, will undergo the colour-proofing stage, where printers send a sample of the book for final checking before mass production.

5. Promotion

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This stage is often closely intertwined with the editorial process, to build an early interest and create a sense of excitement through teasers. At times, this is also used to gauge possible sales in a given market. The information is then fed back to publishers, which may affect the formatting of the book and the strategy employed to sell it.

6. Distribution

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This is the final stage of the publishing process, where the product is made available to the public, usually by offering it for sale. Traditionally, these books are being distributed to booksellers and retailers. But with the rise of online bookstores, books can now be distributed without ever printing a copy!

Need help publishing your book? Get in touch with us for assistance on design, print or e-book production. For a more DIY experience, don’t forget tovisit our self-publishing platform to “place your order”!