The self-publishing industry is growing and becoming more credible all the time. With the Print on Demand technology that is available to authors through various publishing platforms the challenges of self-publishing are reduced to good editing, a great cover choice, and marketing. That said, these are no small feats, nevertheless. This is why authors that have real talent and a unique manuscript—that is in fact marketable—should still try querying an agent. This is the easier route in terms of real success if your work meets the criteria of good writing and a unique story. Also, some of the larger presses are bypassing agents and accepting open submissions. Google this to get more info.
I follow literary agents` blogs and if you are a serious author you should do so as well. This will allow you to get a feel for the market, the publishing industry trends, and what agents are…