The Distribution Barrier for Self-Publishers: Less of an Issue?

When I started at Writer's Digest in 2001, my first assigned beat was the
self-publishing scene. I was given Dan Poynter's Self-Publishing Manual
and The Complete Guide to Self-Publishing by Marilyn & Tom Ross, as
primers on the topic.

I edited the magazine's column on self-publishing (discontinued), the
newsstand-only special issues on self-publishing (also discontinued),
and helped coordinate the judging for the Self-Published Book Awards
(still going strong).

Back then, one of the biggest hurdles for any self-published author was
securing bookstore distribution for a printed book—a near impossibility
unless you could strike a deal with a wholesaler or distributor (also nearly impossible).

Much of the advice we gave in the magazine, and elsewhere, focused on how
you could distribute and sell your book directly to readers, or through
specialty sales channels. (Fortunately, 50% of books sold in this
country are through specialty and mass-merchant accounts. A few
examples of a specialty account: Michael's craft store, salons, gift
shops.)

The indie scene is much different now for a few reasons:

(2) You can e-publish your work for a variety of channels
(including the free-to-use Amazon DTP program), without securing an ISBN, and without granting
exclusivity to any one channel or retailer.

(3) Avid readers are beginning to buy and even prefer books in
electronic format, whether through Kindle, Sony Reader, or mobile
devices.

That said, don't take this as a sign that it's easy to realize
overnight success through self-publishing options, whether
electronically based or not. I really love Christina Katz's "back to
reality" advice, Good-bye, Cinderella: Self-Publishing Isn't the Only or Always the Best Choice for Writers.

There are many viewpoints, and there are just as many changes taking place daily in the industry. Just take the latest
announcement today from Smashwords, Sony Reader, and AuthorSolutions.
People who use Smashwords or AuthorSolutions to publish their work can
have their e-book made available on the Sony
Reader.

I spoke to Smashwords founder Mark Coker yesterday about the news, and
it's impressive to see what his service can now offer an indie author
(for free!):

Mark says that he's in talks with other major online retailers for even
more distribution opportunities. (I bet you can think of at least one
major book retailer not listed above.)

I see physical distribution becoming less of a meaningful barrier as authors can
distribute e-books in all the same places that traditional books are
sold.

It doesn't equate to instant or even easy success, but authors who are
able to create demand for their work, and aren't afraid of sweat-equity,
have the potential for success if happy readers (fans!) help spread the
good word.

Do you have an e-publishing experience to share? Or what questions does
this raise for people who are wondering if this path is worth the time
and energy?

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