Special edition Kickstarters with Dana Claire and The Inkfluence

Meeting summary for Dana Claire talking about fulfillment (06/18/2024)Quick recapThe team discussed the challenges and strategies of book printing, importing, and marketing, with a focus on crowdfunding campaigns and special editions. They also explored the importance of clear communication with manufacturers, the benefits of pre-production samples, and the potential of Kickstarter for book launches. Lastly, they discussed the different paper types and weights, the services offered by Dana's company, and the need for accurate project details to ensure successful campaigns.Next steps• Dana to provide quotes for special edition printing based on book specifications like page count, size, etc.• Authors to book a call with Dana on theinfluence.com for Kickstarter campaign management or special edition printing services.• Authors to consider getting pre-production samples from Dana's team to review before full production run.• Authors to provide separate files for different printing elements like foil, spot UV, etc. to the printer.• Authors to communicate clearly with the printer regarding paper weight (GSM or pounds), printing techniques, and other specifications.• Authors to explore options like split shipping, different cover variants, and inserts for added exclusivity.• Authors to educate themselves on printing terminology and best practices using resources like Russell's article "How to Print Books for Fun and Profit".• Authors to consider long-term sales strategies for special editions beyond just Kickstarter, such as direct sales, subscriptions, or Amazon FBA.SummaryNavigating Crowdfunding and Book Marketing ChallengesRussell introduced Dana Claire, founder of The Influence, a company that helps authors with marketing, importing, and Kickstarter campaigns. Dana shared her experience navigating the ever-changing landscape of crowdfunding campaigns and the importance of her company's advisory role. The team discussed the challenges of book printing, importing, and shipping, including factory relationships, quality control, and communication issues with foreign printers. They explored cost-saving strategies like gang printing and binding for bulk orders. Dana outlined her company's project management approach, guiding clients through campaign planning, design, and launch without handling fulfillment or advertising. Russell suggested options for simpler campaigns, such as special editions or relaunches, to appeal to existing audiences.Promotional Items, Shipping, and Special EditionsDana shared her extensive experience in promotional items, custom designs, and manufacturing processes, highlighting her plans to launch a new website with about 20 unique, inexpensive items. Russell discussed the challenges and potential solutions for shipping large quantities of plushes, while Monica emphasized the need to develop a strategy for selling special editions, beyond just Kickstarter. Dana pointed out the increasing trend of publishing houses releasing special editions, indicating a potential opportunity for self-publishing authors to follow suit.Exploiting Book Cover Variations for Kickstarter SuccessDana and Russell discussed the benefits of using different covers for the same book on Kickstarter and other platforms, emphasizing the potential for increased sales and exclusivity. They highlighted the strategy of printing a standard interior and utilizing change fees for various cover options, such as different dust jackets or hardcovers, to cater to different markets. They also discussed the option of inserting custom illustrations or signed pages into Kickstarter campaigns for added exclusivity. They shared personal experiences and examples from successful campaigns, underscoring the effectiveness of these methods.Enhancing Communication With Chinese ManufacturersMonica, Dana, and Russell discussed the importance of clear communication, particularly when working with manufacturers in China. Dana emphasized the need to provide detailed instructions and specifications, and to confirm details repeatedly to avoid misunderstandings. She also highlighted the significance of understanding the nuances of paper units, such as GSM and Pounds, to avoid errors in production. Russell suggested carrying a paper thickness sample as a reference when communicating with manufacturers. Lastly, the team touched upon the value of pre-production samples to avoid any unforeseen errors or misunderstandings.Pre-Production Samples and Printing TechniquesDana explained the process and advantages of ordering a pre-production sample for book printing, emphasizing that it could save significant costs in the long run. She also clarified the differences between spot gloss and foil, noting that the latter cannot have shading or gradients. Russell shared his practice of sending detailed files to printers for specific effects. Monica suggested working with designers to understand the technical language and specifications required by printers. The team also clarified that they offer campaign management services but do not handle audio production.Kickstarter Campaign Strategy for Book SeriesRussell sought advice from Dana on the best approach to a Kickstarter campaign for the fifth book in a series. Dana suggested keeping the campaign simple with creative rewards, such as naming a character after a backer or having a virtual Zoom party. Russell proposed offering ebooks and print books of the series, with additional rewards for higher tiers. Dana reassured him about flexibility in ordering and fulfillment, suggesting that they could adjust the quantity based on demand. The team also discussed the long-term planning for future campaigns, with Dana mentioning a friend's successful strategy of setting stretch goals for add-ons.Book Printing Best Practices DiscussedDana, Russell, and Monica discussed the best practices for book printing, focusing on the paper quality and thickness. Dana suggested a 80 lb paper for most books, including special editions, as it strikes a good balance between quality and thickness. However, for more artistic or custom illustrations, a 100 lb paper might be necessary. Children's books, on the other hand, might require thicker paper due to their intended use. Dana also clarified that clients should always provide accurate details about their book, such as page count and size, to ensure an accurate quote.Clarifying Printing Services and Special EditionsRussell asked Dana for clarification on the services her company offers for those who don't require design services but need help with overseas printing. Dana explained that her company has three tiers of service: special editions, production, and campaign management. She also mentioned that they could assist with split shipping, a service that has become increasingly popular. The group further discussed the concept of "special editions," with Russell and Dana emphasizing that these editions should offer something unique to the reader, such as a signed copy. They also touched on the potential of Kickstarter for book launches, with Russell cautioning that not all books need a massive, special campaign.Book Printing, Paper Types, and MeasurementsRussell, Monica, and Dana discussed various aspects of book printing, focusing on paper types and weights. They clarified that GSM and pounds are two different measurements for paper thickness. Dana advised that to understand the measurements, it's best to obtain samples from different companies. Monica suggested that interested parties should book a call with Dana for a discussion on their project, be it a Kickstarter campaign or a special edition. Dana emphasized that inquiries about Kickstarter should go through her, while special edition inquiries should go directly to her. The team also mentioned a useful article on printing books for fun and profit that Russell had shared.

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