There is a great discussion on Pimp My Novel blog site, where people are invited to post comments on what are the best reasons to self-publish.  Below, I am cross-posting the comment I left there. 

Overall, I found that one (1) should not self-publish anything one ever wants to see picked up by a real publisher, and (2) should not expect to get profit or fame from a self-published book.  Yes, there are examples to the contrary, but the odds are not worth considering.

With this in mind, it may still be a good idea to self-publish if one is a published author with an established but small fan base and books out of print (possibly also with completed and unpublished sequels).  While it may be a better use of such author's time to write and market something new, self-publication may allow this author to keep the fans satisfied in the mean time and possibly prepare ground for a bigger release.

Another case when self-publication may be warranted is the case of work targeted to a small niche market.   

In any case, outside professional editing and design are a must.  If this is done properly, it is my understanding that such self-publications should not reduce an author's chances sell something new in the future. 

For those of you out there still considering self-publishing, here is my rule of thumb.  If it would make you feel good and proud of yourself to offer your self-published book to friends and/or total strangers, go for it. Absolutely.

But if you would feel 'icky' about it, try to hide the fact that you are self-published, or act defensive in your agressive self-advertising — don't.

Consider your other options instead.

And, most importantly — never give up!

 

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