This makes a lot of sense, since Createspace and KDP did pretty much the same thing. It was only a matter of time before Amazon decided to make KDP their one-stop shop for all things self-publishing.
Whatever your feelings about this move, it's clear that self-publishers who used Createspace will have to publish their paperbacks through KDP from now on. But here are the questions on everyone's mind -- just how different will things be? And how do we deal with books that we've already published on Createspace?
Do I have to move my books over to KDP myself? How do I do that?
You don't have to! Amazon will do it for you in a few weeks' time.
Do we need different file formats for KDP?
As far as I can tell, nope! You can upload the exact same types of files as you did on Createspace. There may be slightly different formatting requirements, but I think most people won't see much of a difference.
Will the distribution channels be different?
Again, nope! It used to be that KDP's expanded distribution options weren't quiiiiiite as good as Createspace's, but they've made them equal now.
Will my books look different now?
Nope! They'll still be printed using the same facilities as they were when they were hosted by Createspace.
Do we have to buy our own ISBNs now?
Nope nope nope! Just like Createspace, KDP offers an option to assign a free ISBN to your book.
Will I have to re-upload my files?
You won't have to re-upload your files to begin with. However, if you used Createspace's Cover Creator (instead of uploading a PDF yourself), you will have to redesign your cover from scratch if and when you want to make changes. On the bright side, you could use that as an opportunity to give your cover a makeover!
But what about [insert other question here]?
Fear not! Amazon has a great help page with tons of info about the move here: https://kdp.amazon.com/en_US/help/topic/GSJULX3WGP36HQ3R
KDP's paperback branch has had a few growing pains for sure, but I'm cautiously optimistic about this switch. I much prefer the KDP interface to the Createspace one, and there doesn't seem to be a huge difference between the two platforms. I suppose I'll find out for myself next time I go to publish a paperback.
Thank you, Ellie! All very clear advice.
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