Do you want your book to reach as many readers as possible while maintaining full control over its distribution?
If you’re a self-published author, navigating the options for wide distribution can feel overwhelming. Amazon KDP, IngramSpark, and BookVault each offer unique strengths, but how do they work together to maximize your book’s potential? In this article, we’ll break down the pros and cons of combining these platforms, explore how this strategy can enhance your reach, and provide practical tips to simplify the process. Stick with me—you’ll leave with a clear roadmap to master wide distribution self-publishing and take your book’s success to the next level.
What is Wide Distribution Self-Publishing?
Often, “wide distribution” is talked about within self-publishing circles as being the Holy Grail, but what is it and why does it matter so much? This approach is central to wide distribution self-publishing.
Wide distribution does exactly what it says on the tin, it enables you to distribute your book as widely as possible and not limit it to being available from only a single platform. This achieves this by strategically combining the Amazon KDP, IngramSpark and BookVault publishing platforms to closely replicate the level of distribution available from traditional publishers. This approach is central to wide distribution self-publishing.
The way this process works, in theory, is very simple: Amazon KDP manages your book within the Amazon network. IngramSpark manages the distribution of your book outside of Amazon to bookstores, libraries, and large retail chains. Then you use BookVault to make self-distribution of your book through your own website easier and more automated.
Overview of Each Piece of the Wide Distribution Self-Publishing Puzzle
I’ve gone into minute detail on the pros and cons of both Amazon KDP and IngramSpark in recent articles, and you can read those here (, ). But let’s have a quick refresh before we take a look at BookVault.
Amazon KDP:
Pros:
- Ease of Access and Use
- Global Reach and Distribution
- Higher Royalties Compared to Traditional Publishing
- Full Control Over Content and Rights
- Cost-Effective Publishing
- Marketing and Advertising Tools
- Quick Publishing Timeline
Cons:
- KDP Select Exclusivity Requirements
- Highly Competitive Market
- Limited Format Control
- Reduced Royalties on Paperbacks
- Lack of Bookstore Placement
- Perception of Self-Publishing Stigma
- Limited Marketing Support
- Limited Direct Customer Support
IngramSpark:
Pros:
- Global Distribution Network
- Print-on-Demand Service
- Hardcover Options
- Discounts and Returnability
- Author Control Over Pricing
- Quality of Print
- Multiple Format Options
- Library and Academic Market Access
Cons:
- Complex Setup and Interface
- Printing Costs
- Returns and Discount Decisions
- Lower Royalties Compared to KDP
- Time for Approval and Distribution
- Marketing Still on the Author
BookVault:
BookVault is the new kid on the block and is poised to really shake up the PoD publishing market. Based in the UK and owned by Printondemand Worldwide (a specialist in ‘book-of-one’ production), BookVault are making use of their state-of-the-art facilities to extend the possibilities of print-on-demand publishing.
The biggest string to their bow is the ability to offer the widest selection of print specifications and special finishes, including 6 binding options, 12 standard trim sizes (plus a custom trim size option), and 7 different paper stocks. Add to that their flagship bespoke options for limited edition books such as foiling, sprayed edges, printed endpapers, head and tail bands, and ribbon bookmarks.
But what makes BookVault a valuable addition to the wide distribution self-publishing system is its sales and distribution model. Yes, you can distribute your book through Amazon, Gardners and The Great British Book Shop, but BookVault allows you to offer print-on-demand sales of your book through your own website via plugins with Shopify, WooCommerce, Wix, and PayHip, with additional plugins currently in development for BookFunnel and TikTok Shop.
The Benefits of Incorporating Wide Distribution Self-Publishing
There are many benefits to incorporating wide distribution into your self-publishing strategy. The obvious one is the increased reach you get from using multiple platforms. This approach is central to wide distribution self-publishing.
By utilising all three distribution platforms in partnership when publishing your book, you get to the leverage of IngramSpark’s global retail and wholesale distribution network, your listing through Amazon KDP ensures preferential treatment of your book within the Amazon network of retail sites, and you get to supplement your retail sales with targeted PoD book sales direct to your network through your own website via BookVault.
This multi-pronged approach allows you to leverage the unique strengths of each platform and tailor a sales and distribution strategy that optimises both retail and direct sales.
Challenges to Consider with Wide Distribution Self-Publishing
As with anything, there are pros and cons to consider for any strategy and wide distribution self-publishing is no exception. Here are a few things you need to consider before deciding if this strategy is suitable for you and your book.
- Time Investment: There is an additional time element that is associated with managing multiple distribution accounts, and making sure there is metadata, and print specification settings are identical across three separate platforms.
- Financial Management: Tracking and reporting royalty earnings from your book becomes a bit more challenging when you have royalty earnings flowing in from three different sources; each with their own payment terms and tax setups.
- Costs: Though there are no fees involved in submitting book listings with IngramSpark or Amazon KDP, there are artwork update fees on IngramSpark for any changes to the book made 60 days after listing submission. BookVault also charges a fee for initial listing submission.
- Logistics: To ensure a wide distribution strategy works correctly, you need to be diligent in your management of metadata and edition artwork to avoid double listings or conflicts in distribution. This approach is central to wide distribution self-publishing.
- Quality Consistency: Lastly, you need to appreciate that there will be subtle differences in print quality across platforms as they each use their own separate production facilities. You also need to be aware that there is some variation between how each platform requires artwork to be exported and submitted, so you may need to adapt book production files for each listing.
Practical Tips for Authors Wanting to Utilise a Wide Distribution Strategy
Don’t let those potential challenges put you off from integrating this powerful strategy into your publishing plans. Here are a few practical tips to help make the process of incorporating wide distribution self-publishing less intimidating.
- ISBN Allocation: Be sure to assign separate ISBNs for each format (paperback, eBook, hardback, audiobook, etc.) and ensure you attribute those ISBNs consistently across all platforms.
- File Preparation: Create print-ready files for each edition of your book that are optimised for each platform’s specifications.
- Distribution Settings: Turn off any overlapping distribution options that could cause potential clashes in listings (e.g., uncheck expanded distribution in KDP, and do not select Global Network on BookVault when using IngramSpark).
- Metadata Consistency: Maintain consistency in book details like pricing and descriptions to avoid confusion. I would recommend creating a centralised metadata set that you use for all of your book listings.
Next Steps
Wide distribution can be a game-changer for self-published authors, offering unparalleled reach and control over your book’s success. By carefully combining Amazon KDP, IngramSpark, and BookVault, you can create a tailored strategy that maximizes your book’s impact while maintaining full ownership of your work. Whether you’re ready to publish or still in the planning stages, there’s a clear next step for you. This approach is central to wide distribution self-publishing.
If you’ve completed your manuscript and are ready to publish, let’s talk! I can help you craft a custom wide distribution strategy that aligns with your goals and ensures your book reaches its full potential. Book a consultation with me today to explore how we can make your publishing journey seamless and successful. This approach is central to wide distribution self-publishing.
Still planning or writing your book? Don’t worry—I’ve got you covered too! Download my Write Strategy Checklist to get a clear, actionable roadmap for planning, writing, and publishing your book. This free resource is designed to help you navigate the process with confidence and clarity and is built to capitalise on a wide distribution self-publishing model.
No matter where you are on your journey, the key to success is taking the next step. Let’s work together to turn your book dreams into a reality!
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