The Cost of Independent Publishing

There are many variables that determine how much it will cost to self-publish a book. As we have learned from publishing our own books, costs can be limited to book production and mandatory registration and trademark matters. However, to produce a high-quality, successful book, additional costs can include research, editing, indexing, marketing, distribution, cover design, etc.

The following matrix has been created to give prospective self-publishers an idea of what they can expect to invest in their book. Although these figures are simulated, we have included three different sample scenarios based on our previous experience and industry figures. The basic scenario includes what we believe is the minimum that needs to be budgeted in order to produce a quality book. The moderate scenario includes enhanced services such as an increased marketing budget and some outside help with production. The final scenario includes a public relations budget, outsourced services such as research and editing, high-season printing and contracted fulfillment services.

It is important to consider that the totals are misleading because this matrix does not take into account the human capital costs associated with the publishing process, nor the costs associated with contracting a third party and/or hiring employees to facilitate some of these tasks. We did not add them to the total cost because with Collaborative Publishing these costs are prevented. Our experience and counsel is provided to our associates as part of the benefit of publishing with the XCEO, Inc. team.

It is important to note that there are other factors that will make the publishing process more expensive or inexpensive which are not accounted for in our matrix. For example, the length of the book, the type of binding and paper, the colors used, whether or not there are pictures and tables in the book, formatting extras (such as drop boxes, shading, spacing and font), the time of year the book is printed, how quickly the book is printed and the quality of the cover.

At XCEO, Inc. we believe that producing a high-quality book that will be accepted by distributors and wholesalers will take between $35,000 and $45,000. If you are interested on seeing exact estimates and expenditures regarding the books that XCEO, Inc. has published, contact us and we will send you a packet with various useful resources. The packet includes a publishing timeline, detailed cost expenditures and other valuable information.

Contact Michelle in the publishing department, at 1-866-855-XCEO or michelle@xceo.net.