Why wouldn’t I write a book? I have been an avid writer for years, but never really considered writing a book because I didn’t have a clear topic to review. But with my non-profit possibly on the way and current talks with small business owners, it seems clear there is a need for a good book that provides small business owners and entrepreneurs a foundation of doing business online.

A large part of what I do when I consult and coach is focus on saving money. In this economy, no respected small business coach will tell a new business owner they need to expect to break the bank. Rather, they will tell you what will work and save you the most money, both up front and over time. Sometimes there is an upfront savings but the long term requires a higher running cost, or there is a savings over time with a higher upfront cost. The risks and benefits are based on each situation, and one business may be completely different than another.

So it makes sense that I would save money and self-publish. If I live by the concept that a bad economy means huge opportunity for small business support models, I can’t pass up the chance to test my theory.

But I plan not to use just one publisher, and not just one version of book. I want exclusive versions for multiple publishers. My goal is to have a basic book on Lulu, another through Zazzle that is more of a quick reference guide, and several other variations exclusive to the publishing source. This means wider exposure, more customized reading, and exclusivity to the site in terms of what is offered. I have seen small businesses reap the benefits of this equation, as long as it is marketed right.

I am in the planning and outlining phase right now. The working title is “There is No Such Thing as an Online Business: Myths and Truths About Doing Business Online”. It will end up being a walkthrough of the traps of eBusiness and how to avoid them, as well as a toolbox to use in planning a business that uses the web for a majority of its daily tasks. It might read a little like a “For Dummies” book, without the insulting title.

I’d love to get people involved in this, as references and real world examples to include in the book. I will be canvasing businesses for that very reason. I will also be looking for a sales agent eventually, if the book takes off or I look into writing more books.

I knew my graphic design classes at the Art Institute of Portland would pay off someday.

For a great how-to on self-publishing, check out this eHow article.

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