Publishing establishments may create the works in-house, contract for, purchase, or compile works that were originally created by others. These works may be published in one or more formats, such as print and/or electronic form, including on-line. Establishments in this industry may print, reproduce or offer direct access to the works themselves or may arrange with others the carry out such functions.
Establishments that both print and publish may fill excess capacity with commercial or job printing. However, the publishing activity is still considered to be the primary activity of these establishments.