Print on Demand (POD) refers to a publishing model where books are only printed when an order is placed, eliminating the need for large upfront print runs and warehousing. This shift represents a move away from traditional publishing methods and offers greater flexibility and cost-effectiveness. The diaries document a transition to POD services, particularly Lightning Source, and discussions around related technical and logistical challenges.
The diaries reveal a gradual adoption of Print on Demand services, initially with concerns about pricing and quality, and later with more established workflows. This transition allowed for the continued availability of controversial titles and expanded distribution, particularly internationally. The diaries also highlight the complexities of managing digital files and ensuring print quality within a POD system.
* 2014: Matthew P Gill enquires about reprints of "The War Path," "Goebbels," "Himmler," and the Churchill series, suggesting a need for readily available print copies. [Source: diary_2014_temp] * 2021: Discussion about Luke Herron's desire to purchase "True Himmler" and the possibility of adding it to a downloadable PDF page. [Source: diary_2021] * 2021: Patrick Donahue inquires about the release date of "Churchill’s War Vol. 3," indicating ongoing print runs. [Source: diary_2021] * 2022: Concerns raised about Amazon's pricing compared to FPP (likely a POD service), suggesting a need to manage distribution channels. [Source: diary_2022_jan_jun] * 2022: Plans to use Lightning Source Australia for printing, and discussion about incorporating colour images and photo scans for book covers. [Source: diary_2022_jan_jun] * 2023: Mention of Biddle’s Books Ltd for printing books in multiple colours, and a desire to reprint certain books, highlighting a strategy for nationalist publishing. [Source: diary_2023] * 2023: Discussion about using POD to reach younger audiences and publish controversial titles. [Source: diary_2023] * 2023: A technical issue with the bookstore's PHP version impacting print orders. [Source: diary_2023]
The diaries demonstrate a move towards greater control over publishing through POD, allowing for the continued availability of niche and potentially controversial titles. Early concerns about pricing and quality gradually gave way to a more established process, although technical issues and distribution challenges persisted. The shift to Lightning Source and similar services reflects a broader trend in self-publishing and independent publishing.
Lightning Source, Self-Publishing, Distribution
* diary_2014_temp * diary_2021 * diary_2021 * diary_2022_jan_jun * diary_2023 * diary_2023