Digital printing technology makes it possible to print on demand. An on demand printer can deliver literally hundreds of high-quality pages within one minute. This technology reduces more than the amount of time it takes to produce a book, it also reduces the amount of space needed to store inventory. Now that publishers are able to produce a book rapidly and on-demand of the author, companies can afford to wait for orders to arrive before manufacturing printed material.

On demand printing puts the goal of publication within the reach of authors who are willing to self-publish their own work. Print on demand publishers are creating services that empower authors to get involved in the production of their own books while making these resources affordable at the same time. If the thought of getting your work published and distributed appeals to you, consider the following:

1. Compare the services of print on demand publishers and choose one that can help you achieve your goals.

2. Save money by using the services of print on demand printers.

3. Utilize short run book printing services when you need a considerable amount of high-quality bound copies.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Employ on demand publishing services to see your work through to publication

Print on demand publishers provide a number of services that often include editing, design, marketing and distribution. Shop around for a reputable print on demand publisher and have a clear understanding of your publishing options before you make any type of commitment.

I recommend: Trafford Publishing provides print on demand services to independent authors and organizations around the globe. Download a free publishing guide and use the publishing profit calculator to determine the royalty, minimum retail price, print cost and potential profit of your book. BookSurge is a print on demand publisher that can help you self-publish a book in four easy steps. As a subsidiary of Amazon.com, the company is able distribute materials through a variety of means that include leading retailers and specialty book sales markets. Register for a free web seminar to gets tips from a book marketing expert.

Go to an on demand printer when you only require a printed copy

Print on demand printers process an order when it's made. This saves the expense of printing several copies, storing them and waiting for someone to place an order. You can get exactly what you need at a time that's convenient for you without paying an extra expense.

I recommend: CreateSpace can produce your book on demand. Since the company only manufactures, packs and ships your product when it's ordered, it remains in stock without counting as inventory. Start a project with this company and save money. Blitzprint manages most of the products it produces in-house to maintain control over the quality of the printing process. Get a simple or detailed estimate to find how much it will cost to get your book printed.

Contact an on demand print company that offers short run book printing services for high quality

While short run book printing may take a couple days, the turn around time is relatively low when you need a number of high-quality bound books.

I recommend: Angel Printing specializes in graphic design and printing. While the company completes most orders in-house, Angel Printing does partner with other sister companies throughout the United States to fill any type of printing order. Request a sample. King Printing is a complete book manufacturer that has provided quality book printing services to customers for over 28 years. All processes are completed in-house, and the company is capable of digital printing, assembly, bindery, Kodak platesetter, inventory, pre-press, sheetfed presses and Variquik web presses.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Be cautious when dealing with print on demand publishers. Ask questions about who controls all aspects of the publishing process, who will receive the proceeds from all sales and who retains full ownership of the books with regards to the rights. Consider contacting a lawyer if you need help understanding the terms of a contract.