Frequently asked questions

What is the first step I need to take to publish my book?

'The only kind of writing, is re-writing' (Ernest Hemingway). So, if you have 'Draft 1' the first step is to read, review and rewrite ... and rewrite. Perhaps ask friends and/or family to peruse and provide feedback and suggestions.

That's done? What's next?

Stage 2 is editing and proofreading. Ideally hire an editing and proofreading service, or a freelancer for each, or both editing, and then proofreading. Design Print Online can provide a basic service in these areas. See our Prices & Fees page for more details.

What is the traditional pathway to turn my manuscript into a published book in print or as an eBook?

The traditional pathway is for your manuscript to be published by a publishing house such as Penguin Random House or Harper Collins. This pathway will entail engaging a literary agent or sending your manuscript to a publisher 'unsolicited'. There are advantages and disadvantages to this pathway. Publishing companies need to be profitable businesses to function.

Your book may only appeal to a limited audience and therefore not be attractive option for these companies. As the author you will be paid a royalty from sales of your book. In Australia this would typically be 10%. In Australia the Australian Publisher's Association provides helpful advice and contact details for publishers in each state.

How can I self-publish my book?

With self-publishing you can have total control ... and total responsibility. Over the last 20 years there have been significant technological changes that now make self-publishing a very attractive pathway, both economically and, with the author (you) exerting greater contol over the design process than the traditional pathway. Specialist printing and binding equipment mean that an author can order a small print-run (as little as 200 copies) of their book for a very economical price. The finished result (printing and binding) is as good as traditional book printing that generally requires a minimum run of 1,000 books.

You may decide to complete each stage of the publishing project yourself (book design, cover design, photos, illustrations, copyright clearances, printer quotes and supplying Print Ready PDF files to the printer), but each of these steps requires a level of proficiency, expertise and experience.

So this is when you can hire Design Print Online to handle all of these steps (even marketing, online sales and a website).

How will Design Print Online help me publish my book at a cost I can afford?

I worked in publishing for a non-profit organisation for over 40 years. We constantly needed to innovate and find new methods to publish with finesse, but at the lowest possible cost. Some of the resources we published had a very specific focus and so only 100 copies were printed at a time.

Design Print Online will bring those 40+ years of knoweldge, skill and experience now to your publication. At the outset we will discuss various options for printing, binding and marketing that will be appropriate for your budget and the personal goals you have for your book.