When I started my venture into publishing three years ago, I had no idea what to expect. However, I wasn't dissuaded by the challenges that I faced. No, I was well equipped with a handy tool that I use with just about every new project I tackle -- organization.
I am a firm believer in organization. So much, that I organized the self-publishing process, in my recently published book The Woman's Guide to Self-Publishing, into 5 components:
1. Research
2. Manuscript Development
3. Production
4. Promotion
5. Distribution
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The Package
With each publishing project you begin, immediately get a 3-ring binder. This will be a great capsule to hold all the information you collect over the next several months. Then, use those wonderful Avery IndexMakers (5-tab) to create your custom notebook. Each tab will labeled with one of the sections listed above. Voila! You now have an organized container for your publishing project.
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The Process
As you advance through your publishing project, use these 5 components as your organization foundation. When you are gathering resources and data for your article, booklet, or book, store that information in your Research section. As you are writing, editing and improving your manuscript, keep that information in the Manuscript Development section. The Production section of your binder will contain items such as: ISBN registration, bar code acquisition, quotes from printers, cover design ideas, etc. -- anything that has to do with the production of your project. The Promotion and Distribution sections are where you will keep your ideas and resources about how you will promote and distribute your finished work to your audience.
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Advanced Techniques
To organize your project even further, you may want to include a copy of your budget and production schedule at the front of your binder. Each time you open it; you can review them both to gauge your progress. At the front of each individual section, put a checklist of activities that need to be completed for that specific phase of the project.
Now you're ready to start your publishing project! By implementing this organizational tool at the beginning of the process, you will alleviate a significant amount of stress -- writing and publishing is stressful enough.
Please note: This tool can be used for any significantly sized writing project.
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Resources
If you are interested in writing and publishing you can get started with the following resources:
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