Short answer
Self-publishing means you manage everything yourself. Working with a publisher means they handle production, setup, and distribution preparation — with defined scope and cost.
Direct answer
Self-publishing means you manage everything yourself. Working with a publisher means they handle production, setup, and distribution preparation — with defined scope and cost.
What authors usually misunderstand
Authors often think 'publisher' always means traditional publishing with advances and bookstore placement.
FloodGate's approach
FloodGate is a hybrid: professional production and setup with transparent pricing and clear ownership terms. Not vanity press, not traditional.
What this means for you
Choose based on what you need help with and what you want to control yourself.