While I found Yamaguchi's article to be informative, I don't think it presents both sides equally. Like anything, there's the positive and negative aspects. 1st Books, Xilibris, iUniverse etc. have had lots of negative press, but that isn't the reputation of ALL PODs! I've had great service from Infinity Publishin (bbotw.com) who DOES offer returns on books
and store discounts, to take care of the major probs with POD...so it really depends on how you shop around...I also came across Lulu, which looks fantastic, but I found their website a bit cluttered, but I'll check it out again when I'm ready...


Basically, I feel if you're serious about your craft, have promotional venues in mind and are computer savvy, POD is a GREAT way to go..vanity publishing is often MUCH more expensive & risky
and traditional publishing, with it's loooong, communicative process, is purely for the ego--why? Because so many feel that's the ONLY way to validate yourself as an author. I disagree. I published my book when I just turned 25 and sold 1500+ within a few months--and I really didn't have the means (or time) to go all out with promotion! For myself, my validation comes from people telling me how awesome my book is--how it came to exist really doesn't matter, as long as it's my best work, I'm communicating & others appreciate it.

So, shop around, be cautious and realistic and "your way" will make itself very clear to you! Good luck :)