Print on Demand versus Bulk Printing: What every author needs to know?
The publishing landscape is now at everyone's doorstep. Not only can authors today reach readers around the world without the traditional houses, but there are two flexible printing methods available today – print on demand (POD) and bulk printing – that makes it possible for every type of author. While both will yield the same book quality, they suit completely different purposes, influencing your budget, marketing, stock management, and overall success as an author.
What is POD (print on demand)?
POD is a publishing method that utilizes a method where a book is printed only when a customer makes an order.
Instead of creating massive batches, authors only need to create one file and allow the platform to print, ship, and handle packaging on demand to various online outlets world-wide. This method removes the need for stock management and authors can print from almost anywhere in the world, making it the best approach for self-published authors.
Why authors love POD
One of the best ways to publish without spending loads of money is the amazing print on demand. Authors can publish professionally without expending large sums of money upfront. Books are readily available throughout the year and they will never be out of print.
Localized international factories allow customers from different parts of the world to have quick delivery at a decreased shipping fee.
POD also gives authors the luxury of revising their manuscripts every time they feel it necessary, as each printed version of the book will incorporate it.
Bulk Printing: A traditional method with a modern twist
Bulk printing involves producing hundreds, or thousands of copies of the book in just one printing run. Although expensive in the short term, the cost per copy is dramatically reduced as the volume of copies increases. Bulk printing may seem more appropriate for established authors with huge reading circles or for large corporate orders, however. Bulk print offers better profit per copy, ensuring immediate availability for bookstores, lectures, conferences and for the wholesale purchase market.
Higher quality and more choices
Bulk print does produce, or cannot produce a finer, crisper print than POD, it depends entirely on the budget. An offset print will provide more depth in terms of colour and resolution, and this cannot be recreated on any modern POD system for high quality premium printed pieces. Bulk prints also allow authors to incorporate more premium finishing like embossing, foiling, hardcover binding, special paper quality and special inks.
Which publishing method to choose?
Print on demand is perfect for:
Independent authors
New launches
Online retail
Often updated titles
International distribution
Bulk printing works best for:
Book retailers
Universities
Company printing
Events and conferences
High-volume sales
Many experienced publishers are using a combination of the two methods in order to maximize.
Final thoughts:
There is a valuable printing method that can work for every author in publishing today. POD allows you to print your books globally through reduced costs, better distribution and elimination of storage stock. However, Bulk print can only produce the very finest printed material at relatively inexpensive prices when you produce thousands of books at a time; guaranteeing you a higher profit margin. After weighing the type of audience, expected sales and publishing objectives against the prices; make the correct decision for your next published piece.
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