The key is to have a good marketing plan, and to know where your money goes. An illustrator gets half of the author's 15 percent. Invest in a good story editor, copy editor and proofreader. Consider outsourcing a job function in which you are less skilled. Invest in a good design.
Technology is no substitute for the creative process.
Janet Rosauer, author of Life After Grief , reiterated the importance of a sound marketing plan. After realizing that her journal was turning into a novel, she did her own illustrations and published her book through Kinko's before going to a printer. She then marketed it through churches, support groups, gift and greeting card shops even Snyder Drugs. She wrote her own book reviews for local papers. Give out information.