New Journal Roadmap

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Journal Proposal Guidelines

New Journal Roadmap

Guidelines

IECE is committed to creating a respected academic journal within the academic community. Our vision is to develop a high-impact, high-quality journal that contributes significantly to the scientific discourse and stands as a reliable resource for researchers, practitioners, and academics. Below is a comprehensive roadmap outlining the steps for the journal's development, from launch to achieving recognition in global databases.


1. Initial Launch and Early Development (Four weeks)


  • Journal Name and Scope Definition:

    • The journal's name and scope should be clearly defined, focusing on a specific academic field with significant research potential. The initial issues should establish the journal's identity and reflect its focus on cutting-edge, peer-reviewed content.

    • Editorial Board formation: Assemble a distinguished editorial board with experts in the field, ensuring that the editorial team can provide strong academic leadership and guidance.


  • Publishing Frequency:

    • The journal will adopt a quarterly publication schedule. Each year will consist of four issues, ensuring a steady stream of high-quality content.

    • Early issues should focus on defining the core focus of the journal, attracting quality submissions, and engaging the academic community with relevant topics.


  • Infrastructure Setup:

    • Establish a solid online submission and peer-review system. This will help in managing submissions efficiently, maintaining editorial integrity, and ensuring a smooth review process.


2. Growing the Journal’s Reputation (Years 1)


  • Content Expansion and Quality Control:

    • As the journal matures, content should expand to include a diverse range of article types, such as original research articles, review papers, case studies, and editorial pieces, focusing on innovative and high-impact research.

    • Quality control measures should be continuously refined. Ensure that all submitted manuscripts undergo rigorous peer review and adhere to the highest academic standards.


  • Open Access and Funding:

    • Implement open access publishing policies to make the journal more widely accessible. Consider introducing Article Processing Charges (APCs) if necessary, and explore funding options, such as sponsorships and grants, to support open access.

    • Begin the process of applying for funding or sponsorships from academic institutions, research agencies, and other organizations to cover operational costs.


  • Early Stage Indexing:

    • For open-access journals, apply for the DOAJ (Directory of Open Access Journals) index after the publication of two issues. This will help increase the visibility and credibility of the journal within the global open-access community.

    • Begin networking with key academic publishers and databases to prepare for future indexing applications.


3. Gaining Visibility and Reaching Global Standards (Years 2-3)


  • Editorial Enhancements and Author Outreach:

    • Expand the journal’s editorial board to include additional experts, ensuring it remains at the forefront of research in the field. Invite prominent scholars to contribute as guest editors or to participate in special issues.

    • Develop strategies for reaching out to high-quality authors from prestigious institutions and well-known research labs.


  • Web of Science and Scopus Indexing:

    • By the time the journal has published at least eight issues, apply for indexing in Web of Science and Scopus. This will be a significant milestone, enhancing the journal’s visibility and academic credibility. To meet the indexing requirements, ensure that the journal:

      • Maintains high editorial and publication standards.

      • Publishes original and high-quality research articles.

      • Meets indexing criteria, including citation impact and academic influence.


  • Increase Journal Impact:

    • Increase the journal’s citation rate by promoting published articles through academic networks, social media, and academic conferences.

    • Introduce innovative content types like interviews with key scholars, conference summaries, and emerging topic discussions to further engage the academic community.


4. Establishing Long-Term Sustainability and Influence (Years 4+)


  • Reputation and Impact Factor:

    • Focus on increasing the journal's impact factor by encouraging high-quality submissions, citations, and partnerships with leading academic institutions.

    • Collaborate with prominent conferences to produce special issues and attract influential researchers.


  • Global Recognition and Partnerships:

    • Continue to establish the journal as a global leader by forming partnerships with academic associations, professional societies, and research organizations. Consider organizing or sponsoring conferences and workshops to promote the journal and solicit submissions.

    • Seek to diversify the geographic representation of authors and readers to make the journal truly international.


  • Annual Special Issues and Calls for Papers:

    • Launch special issues on trending topics or major breakthroughs in the field. This can attract high-profile contributors and further establish the journal’s relevance in the academic community.

    • Issue targeted calls for papers to encourage submissions on emerging trends, fostering the journal’s role as a leader in shaping research directions.