Quality Over Quantity in Technical Publishing

Introduction

In the world of publishing, especially for technical books, the choice of royalties can significantly impact authors. At No Starch Press, we offer our authors a choice of royalties ranging from 12% to 15%. While most authors opt for the 12% option, many still choose the higher percentage. Our technical titles have seen varying success, with some selling over 20,000 copies, while others, often on niche topics, may only reach 2,000 to 3,000 copies. Writing a technical book is a labor-intensive process that requires substantial editorial and marketing support, which is increasingly rare in today's publishing landscape. This article emphasizes the need for quality over quantity in publishing, advocating for fewer but better books that truly contribute to the field.

Key Features:

• Royalty Options: Authors can choose between 12% and 15% royalties.
• Sales Performance: Insights into the sales performance of technical titles.
• Editorial Support: The importance of thorough editing and support in the publishing process.
• Advocacy for Quality: Encouragement for authors to focus on creating high-quality technical books.

Use Cases:

• Authors: Understanding the publishing process and making informed decisions about royalties.
• Publishers: Insights into the importance of supporting authors with editorial and marketing resources.
• Readers: Awareness of the quality of technical books and the effort behind them.