Introduction
The lines between publication and self publication are almost invisible. The
nearest the law has come to defining a publisher is recognise the person making
the financial contribution as the 'publisher'. But print-on-demand means that
the capital outlay for a long print run is not required by the publisher and
design is much simpler using pervasive, digital technology.
So is it now the writer who has made the major contribution even if that is
measured in terms of income foregone while writing. Things are far from clear
when the old model is examined.
This has opened the possibility of a meaningful partnership between the
writer and publisher. Co-publication is one term for such an arrangement where
the writer and publisher work together.
How it works
It all begins with a work supplied by a writer that the publisher thinks
can find a readership. The publisher provides the design, print and distribution
while the writer does the writing.
The publisher will share their experience in the marketplace is something
that the writer might take into account at the re-writing stage. The publisher
is also going to want to ensure that the work is edited but this is genuine
teamwork.
The Deal
At WPS this is how it works. We work together on the details of the content
but you as the writer are really in charge. If we think it will make money we
will offer to co-publish with the up-front costs being met which is recovered
from sales.
Once the book moves into profit, the proceeds are split 50:50.
Self-publishing offer a better percentage (about 22% fees and charges
depending on exchange rates etc) but the writer has to pay for the production
costs.
Co-publishing brings the writer nearer to their readers with the publisher
acting as a facilitator rather than the controller of the process. Is this the
future?
Chas Jones 2009
