My artbooks were originally funded with a successful Kickstarter campaign. Because of this, I sometimes get approached for advice on crowdfunding, specifically using crowdfunding to fund a book project. However, in my case, much of the complicated work was done by my publisher, 3DTotal. They set up the kickstarter, created the layouts for the book, and arranged the printing, packaging, delivery and customer service. For any questions regarding those aspects of a kickstarter project, I unfortunately cannot provide any insights. I can provide the following tips:
- Do research: Crowdfunding is a way to test whether there is interest in a product. Before launching, to some research into whether people are interested in the product you offer, perhaps by asking around in your own circle of friends or on your social media channels. Try to see your crowdfunding campaign as a way to test whether your product can be successful, rather than a guarantee for success.
- Set a clear goal: Formulate your goal as clearly and concisely as possible. People usually don’t have a lot of time read through lengthy descriptions and information before deciding to back a project, so make sure that you clearly state what backers are paying for, and do so near the top of your kickstarter page.
- Be realistic about time: Many kickstarters fail to deliver their product within the time frame that they promised. Make sure that you think realistically about the amount of time that goes into a project, including packaging, contact with your backers, replacing lost packages, etc. Also, take into consideration the possible scenario of going over your funding goal, so that you’re not blindsided with a massive amount of work without any kind of backup plan.
- Make a schedule: Make a realistic time schedule that includes some wiggle room, so that you can be sure you will meet the deadlines you promise to your backers.
- Simplify your prizes: Don’t overcomplicate the different tiers you offer your backers. If you are offering 15 different tiers with minor differences beteween them, you will make it more difficult for backers to choose a prize, so consider fewer tiers with clear descriptions.