When Does a Self-publisher Constitute a Publishing Company?

In Discussion by Edward Nawotka

By Edward Nawotka

Today’s lead editorial looks at our evolving publishing vocabulary. One of the questions raised is when does a self-publisher constitute a publishing company. So many self-publishers brand themselves as companies — for a variety of reasons, often to do with marketing — but if they just publish books written by themselves, does this qualify?

Personally, I believe that it takes a list comprising three authors to have the foundation of a publishing company.

Think about it this way: One is an individual. Two is a couple. Three…that’s a family. Or a company.

A family — and by extension, a publishing company — implies obligation and responsibility to someone other then oneself.

That is, to me at least, the definition of a company.

What do you think? Let us know in the comments.

About the Author

Edward Nawotka

A widely published critic and essayist, Edward Nawotka serves as a speaker, educator and consultant for institutions and businesses involved in the global publishing and content industries. He was also editor-in-chief of Publishing Perspectives since the launch of the publication in 2009 until January 2016.