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CreateSpace is a publishing and manufacturing on-demand service for independent publishers, studios, music labels, and content creators. The current trend towards self-publishing is expanded beyond books to multimedia in this application.

CreateSpace was originally founded as CustomFlix Labs, Inc. and BookSurge Inc. The two brands were acquired by Amazon and merged under the name CreateSpace. Site data indicates approximately 150,000 unique visitors per month.

This application is a print or create-on-demand service for books, Kindle books, CDs, mp3s, DVDs, and video downloads. With a community for seeking advice and tools that assist with uploading and managing content, CreateSpace offers easy options for self publishing of a variety of media.

For first-time users, CreateSpace is a little daunting. The FAQ page takes users to a search page for finding answers rather than a more easily accessible guide. Fortunately, each media type has a step-by-step process for managing content. Each one contains blanks for necessary information with tips for completion.

Based on input in the community forum, users have encountered some quality issues with CreateSpace. Authors have noted inconsistent quality in covers, stating that some are peeling or curling. Video producers have had difficulty with CreateSpace accepting content in various formats. Audio producers have had issues with poor communication as well as in receiving proofs.

The site isn’t difficult to use, but be aware of the difficulties current members are experiencing and proceed with caution.

Email address, password, full name, and type of media are required for registration. Once entered, a user has access to step-by-step instructions for preparing a file. Users in the US are required to provide a Tax ID number before any work can be made available for purchase. Outside of the US, payee address and business type must be provided.

Each on-demand platform has its own pricing options. Books, DVDs, CDs, Audio downloads, and video downloads are all priced differently with varying levels of fees and royalties.

In addition to the product fees, users may upgrade to a Pro-Plan for $39 plus $5 per year for each Pro Plan title. This provides larger royalties, lower costs, and access to Expanded Distribution Channel. Users should carefully calculate whether this will provide them with a good value.

Independent filmmakers, musicians, and authors wishing to self-publish can use this application to produce media content for distribution. Note that the site does not distribute the media.

• Self publishing service for books, music, audio, and video
• Completely customizable solutions
• Publishing, editing, design, and marketing services
• Clearly stated pricing

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