Due Diligence and Research Prior to Publishing Avoids Conflict and Issues Afterward

The desire of a novice author to seek the quickest and least complicated method of having their work published is understandable. However, quick and easy is often a recipe for failure. Due diligence and research prior to publishing greatly reduces the possibility of post-publication aggravation and frustration. The following may prove helpful and can be studied in more detail by accessing books, articles, classes, lectures and seminars on the subject.

Many publishers are honest and trustworthy, some are not.
There are books and periodicals that provide lists of well-established, legitimate publishers, along with lists of those that are not. Most of them recommend eliminating the internet as a research tool. Why? Some self-proclaimed authors routinely post rants, supported only by innuendo, half-truths and blatant falsehoods, to discredit a publisher that had the audacity to reject their masterpiece or with whom their book failed to achieve commercial success.

A publisher's claims may be easily confirmed.
There are reliable sources that may be contacted to evaluate a publisher's reputation: The local Chamber of Commerce, Better Business Bureau and State's Attorney General's Office.

A well-established, legitimate publisher will provide most, if not all, of the following:
- The address and phone number of a physical location. Visitors are welcome.
- Registration of the copyright and ISBN for each format published, plus the filing of an Intent to Use and Grant of Merchandising Licensing Rights application with the U.S. Patent & Trademark Office - all on behalf of the author in his/her name.
- The services of employees or contracted personnel (acquisition staff, copy and conceptual editors, layout and graphic design artists, audio technicians, professional narrators, publicity and marketing support), along with direct contact information.
- The capability to provide a variety of formats: Traditional print (hard cover & paperback), E-book, audio book (compact disc & download).
- Widespread distribution and access to numerous commercial vendors.

Publishing Contract
A legitimate publisher will insist upon a written contract to protect both parties. Review the document with a qualified attorney before signing. Negotiate any recommended changes. If the publisher is unwilling to compromise, look for another publisher.

The adage "Anything worth doing is worth doing well" is worth heeding.