Print on demand (POD) is an example of technology making better for everyone. Print on demand technology is revolutionizing the printing and book selling industry in many ways.
Previously books were published in groups called batches, runs or editions. Books were then shipped to book sellers on order or on consignment. For consignment shipments, book sellers received commissions when sales occurred. They provided storage in their store while waiting for the book to sell. This printing technology is offset or letterset printing. As costs of many things increase, including the cost of money, it is too costly for printing, shipping and warehousing books on speculation.
Print on demand is possible because of digital technology. Using POD technology, books are printed when ordered. Only for very popular authors with mass selling of books is offset printing utilized. POD is better for the publisher, better for authors and book sellers and better for the customer as well.
POD Benefits for Printers and Publishers
POD technology allows a reduction of overhead and labor costs while still allowing demand to be met. Type of technology can be used to keep books in print perpetually.
POD Benefits for Book Sellers
Book sellers only need to keep a few books in stock. In many cases, book sellers have POD equipment in store ready to print soft-bound copies of books. Books purchased from the publisher or printer on a POD basis result in more money for the book seller, compared to consignment handling and sales.
POD Benefits for Readers
The reading public benefits from easy availability of almost any book, even those out of print. In some cases, the book is shipped direct to the customer’s home. That saves time and money not having to return to the store.
Some customers still insist they prefer books printed as they were before. Eventually the convenience of POD wins over most diehard fans. For more information on POD, please check online with Wikipedia.