By Edward Nawotka

Wow…according to anecdata from the IBPA’s Publishing University, some 200 million Americans say they want to write a book. That’s a huge number and one that would certainly overwhelm traditional print distribution channels. Of course, it’s widely known that most will simply publish e-books — many (according to our feature story today) of dubious quality.

It would behoove many self-publishers to learn the basics of traditional book publishing — editing, copyediting, layout, design. Yet, for many, it’s all about sales and marketing: “Getting your name out there, moving copies, making money.”

Sadly, the fact is that even if you sell thousands of copies of a poorly produced book, you’re unlikely ever to make another sale to those same readers — thus undermining your long-term career potential as a writer.

Does the DIY movement have it’s priorities out whack? Let us know what you think in the comments.