Nowadays, every journal needs an online application to manage its work. In previous decades, this was done by post, and then it returned to email. But now, an academic journal needs such a system to remain in this arena. As of now, the authors do not send their papers to the journals by email or post. So, journal managers should think about this issue in the first days of launching new journals.
Commercial publishers or universities manage many journals; these organizations have always outsourced this job to an external technology company offering such a service. However, some organizations and associations still do not provide such a service, and their choice of option is not suitable for the journal founders. Also, many journals are launched by private or independent scholars who do not have such an option and should decide about it on their own.
How to select an online journal management system for a new journal
As mentioned, these systems are of two types: open-source and commercial. Commercial systems are sold and supported by companies based on subscriptions and are supported and updated regularly. However, their prices vary from very low to thousands of USD per year, depending on the system and the add-ons purchased. While it seems simple, a review of the current paradigms in journal management reveals that these systems are much more complicated than they look.
What is behind an online journal management system?
The journal management systems are not now systems to receive the manuscripts from the authors and pass them to the reviewers; they are much more than that. These systems are now constructed on a complicated infrastructure that links the publications of each journal to the archives, coding and identifying systems that are defined for the digital objects, the authors, and the organizations behind them. For example, ScholarOne is one of the famous web applications hosted by Clarivate Institute, the owner of WoS Archive. Reviewing the services linked to the ScholarOne system reveals the extent of parallel systems for indexing, measuring the impact of publications, the indicators of the academic organizations, the scientific indicators of the scholars, and connections between the archives are vast and multiple.
Most Popular Online Journal Management Systems: A Comprehensive Guide
The world of academic publishing is evolving rapidly, and with it, the demand for efficient online journal management systems has never been higher. For journals looking to streamline their editorial processes, improve efficiency, and enhance collaboration among authors, editors, and reviewers, selecting the right journal management system (JMS) is essential. Here, we explore some of the most popular JMSs that cater to the specific needs of academic publishers, universities, and researchers worldwide.
What is a Journal Management System?
A journal management system is a digital platform that facilitates the entire publication process, from manuscript submission to peer review and final publication. By centralizing tasks like manuscript tracking, editorial workflows, and communication between contributors, a JMS significantly reduces the workload and ensures a smooth and organized process. Features may include:
- Manuscript Submission and Tracking: Authors can submit manuscripts, and editors can track progress.
- Peer Review Process: Enables double-blind, single-blind, or open peer review.
- Editorial Management: Aids editors in managing manuscripts, assigning reviewers, and making final decisions.
- Publishing Options: Some systems offer direct integration with publishing platforms or output-ready formats.
1. Open Journal Systems (OJS)
Overview: Open Journal Systems (OJS), developed by the Public Knowledge Project (PKP), is one of the most widely used open-source journal management systems. It’s designed to make scholarly publishing more accessible and affordable.
Key Features:
– User-Friendly Interface: Easy-to-use interface for all participants—editors, reviewers, authors, and readers.
– Open-Source: Highly customizable and can be modified to meet the specific needs of the journal.
– Peer Review Workflow: Supports a variety of peer review processes, including double-blind.
– Multilingual Support: OJS supports multiple languages, making it ideal for international journals.
– Integration with DOI and ORCID: Provides tools for integrating DOIs and ORCID iDs for academic authentication and citation.
Best For: Journals looking for an open-source solution with comprehensive support for peer review and multilingual options.
 | We provide all services related to Online Journal systems based on customized OJS system: – Upgrade to the last stable version – Debug and find the vulnerable modules – Install and design new themes – Design Logo, theme, and journal layouts |
2. Editorial Manager
Overview: Developed by Aries Systems, Editorial Manager is a commercial journal management software popular among academic publishers and used by top-tier journals.
Key Features:
– Robust Workflow Management: Provides a structured workflow for manuscript submission, review, and publication.
– Advanced Reporting Tools: Editors have access to detailed reports and analytics.
– Reviewer Management Tools: Automated reviewer suggestions based on manuscript topics and reviewer expertise.
– Integration with ResearcherID and ORCID: Facilitates the tracking of author and reviewer contributions.
– Flexible Configuration: Customizable features to meet the unique requirements of different journals.
Best For: Large-scale academic publishers looking for an advanced, feature-rich solution with premium customer support.
3. Scholastica
Key Features:
– Automated Journal Layouts: Simplifies formatting with automated HTML and PDF generation for online publication.
Overview: Scholastica is a cloud-based journal management system that provides streamlined solutions for editorial, peer review, and open-access publishing. Scholastica aims to reduce the technical and administrative burdens on editorial teams.
– Peer Review Management: Integrated tools to manage peer review with easy tracking and communication.
– Open Access Integration: Supports open access publishing and provides options for paid open access.
– Advanced Analytics: Provides insights on manuscript processing times, reviewer performance, and more.
– Website Hosting Options: Offers website hosting with customizable templates for online journals.
Best For: Academic journals prioritizing open access and user-friendly online publishing solutions.
4. Manuscript Manager
Overview: Manuscript Manager is a highly customizable, cloud-based submission and peer review platform aimed at supporting academic and scientific journals.
Key Features:
– Mobile-Friendly Interface: Accessible on desktop and mobile, allowing users to work remotely.
– Automated Reminders: Automated reminders help ensure the timely completion of peer review and editorial tasks.
– Advanced Author Tools: Authors can submit preprints, monitor the manuscript’s progress, and interact with reviewers.
– Data Security and GDPR Compliance: Offers high security for sensitive data and complies with GDPR.
– Seamless Integrations: Integrates with third-party tools like ORCID, CrossRef, and more.
Best For: Journals seeking a flexible platform that’s highly customizable and user-friendly.
5. Editorial Submission System (ESS)
Overview: Developed by Wiley, the Editorial Submission System (ESS) is an integrated platform designed to streamline the submission and review process for academic journals.
Key Features:
– Scalable Solution: Suits journals of different sizes and can handle high submission volumes.
Automated Peer Review Workflow: This workflow supports various peer review models, including double-blind, single-blind, and open peer review.
– Enhanced Reviewer Tools: Advanced reviewer recommendations and automated reviewer reminders.
– Easy Content Management: Offers tools for version tracking, content archiving, and communication between contributors.
– Detailed Analytics and Reporting: Provides comprehensive analytics for monitoring manuscript turnaround times, reviewer performance, and editorial decisions.
Best For: Academic publishers looking for a scalable, efficient system for high-volume journals.
6. eJournalPress (EJPress)
Overview: eJournalPress (EJPress) is a flexible, modular journal management system designed for scientific and academic journals. EJPress provides custom solutions that can be tailored to meet unique journal requirements.
Key Features:
– Customizable Workflows: Editors can customize workflows to fit the specific needs of the journal.
– Enhanced Communication Tools: Provides communication tools that facilitate interactions among editors, reviewers, and authors.
– Support for Complex Review Processes: Suitable for multi-stage and cross-review workflows.
– Integration with Publishing Platforms: Integrates with third-party platforms for seamless publishing and indexing.
– Detailed Reporting: Offers robust data reporting capabilities for monitoring editorial metrics.
Best For: Journals with specialized requirements need a customizable system for advanced editorial workflows.
7. PeerTrack
Overview: Developed by Aries Systems, PeerTrack is a peer review system that automates and manages the manuscript submission and review process for academic journals.
Key Features:
– Easy-to-Use Dashboard: Provides a clear and organized dashboard for managing tasks.
– Reviewer Database Integration: Offers tools for matching manuscripts with qualified reviewers.
– Customizable Templates: Supports customizable templates for communication, workflow, and user management.
– Detailed Analytics: Gives insight into turnaround times, submission rates, and peer review performance.
– Data Security: Strong focus on data protection and compliance with academic publishing standards.
Best For: Journals seeking a reliable, user-friendly platform that prioritizes data security and workflow customization.
8. EditFlow
Overview: EditFlow is a versatile, affordable journal management system built specifically for small to mid-sized academic journals. Its simplicity and ease of use make it popular for journals looking to minimize technical overhead.
Key Features:
– Streamlined Workflow: Simplifies the editorial and review workflow to reduce complexity.
– Flexible Review Options: Supports various peer review models and processes.
– Affordable Pricing Plans: Cost-effective options for smaller journals with limited budgets.
– Detailed Audit Trails: Tracks all changes and interactions within the system for full transparency.
– File Management and Archiving: Offers simple tools for managing and archiving manuscripts.
Best For: Small to mid-sized academic journals that need a simple, efficient, and affordable solution.
9. JournalXpress
Overview: JournalXpress is a cloud-based journal management system ideal for academic publishers who need comprehensive submission, peer review, and publication functionalities.
Key Features:
– Manuscript Submission Portal: Offers a user-friendly submission portal for authors.
– Automated Task Management: Automates repetitive tasks like reviewer invitations and reminder emails.
– Advanced Analytics Dashboard: Provides real-time data on manuscript handling and reviewer performance.
– Flexible Pricing Options: Offers tiered pricing options for journals with varying budgets.
– Seamless Integration with DOI and ORCID: Supports easy integration for academic identifiers.
Best for: Publishers seeking an intuitive system with comprehensive automation and customization options.
Key Considerations When Choosing a Journal Management System
Selecting the best journal management system involves considering the unique needs of your journal. Here are some essential factors:
– Cost and Licensing Model: Open-source systems like OJS may have low upfront costs, but may require technical expertise. Commercial platforms generally provide better support, but at a higher cost.
– Ease of Use: A user-friendly interface helps reduce training time for editors, authors, and reviewers.
– Customization and Flexibility: Some journals may require custom workflows or unique peer-review models.
– Integration Capabilities: Integration with academic identifiers (DOI, ORCID) and third-party tools can streamline processes.
– Customer Support: Access to reliable customer support can make a big difference, especially for larger journals.
– Data Security: Ensure that the system complies with data security standards like GDPR, especially for international journals.
10. Manuscript Central
Manuscript Central, now known as ScholarOne Manuscripts, is a popular online journal management system developed by Clarivate. It is widely used by academic and scientific journals, particularly by large publishing houses, to manage manuscript submissions, peer review processes, and overall editorial workflows.
Key Features of ScholarOne Manuscripts (Manuscript Central)
1. Comprehensive Submission and Review Workflow: ScholarOne offers a robust workflow for handling manuscript submissions, with tools to assign reviewers, manage revisions, and track every stage of the review process.
2. Customizable Peer Review Options: It supports multiple types of peer review, including single-blind, double-blind, and open peer review, allowing journals to choose a process that aligns with their standards.
3. Reviewer Discovery: Built-in algorithms help suggest and match reviewers based on subject matter expertise, enhancing the speed and accuracy of reviewer selection.
4. Detailed Analytics and Reporting: Editors can access real-time data on submission and review timelines, reviewer activity, and editorial performance, allowing for better workflow management and insights into publication metrics.
5. Integration with ORCID and DOI: ScholarOne seamlessly integrates with ORCID to ensure author identification and CrossRef for DOI generation, simplifying citation tracking and enhancing research credibility.
6. Mobile Compatibility: The platform is optimized for mobile, allowing editors, reviewers, and authors to access and manage submissions on the go.
7. High Security and Data Compliance: ScholarOne prioritizes data protection and is compliant with GDPR and other international standards, making it suitable for journals with global contributors.
8. Customer Support and Training: ScholarOne offers dedicated support, including technical assistance and training resources for journal staff, ensuring smooth operation and troubleshooting.
Advantages of ScholarOne Manuscripts
– Widely Trusted by Large Publishers: ScholarOne is the platform of choice for several large academic publishers, such as Taylor & Francis, Sage, and Wiley, making it a trusted and established name in the industry.
– Scalable and Customizable: The system’s flexibility allows it to be configured to meet the specific needs of different journals, whether they are single-title or multi-title publishers.
– Streamlined Communication: Built-in email templates and automated notifications make it easier for editors to communicate with reviewers and authors, reducing administrative workload.
Disadvantages of ScholarOne Manuscripts
Higher Cost: ScholarOne is a commercial solution, which means that subscription costs can be higher than those of open-source alternatives.
Steep Learning Curve: The platform’s wide range of features may require significant training for some, particularly for smaller editorial teams or new users.
Best For: ScholarOne Manuscripts is best suited for medium to large academic publishers that need a robust, scalable, and secure system to manage a high volume of submissions. It’s ideal for journals that require advanced peer review options, robust analytics, and integration capabilities.
Conclusion
The right journal management system can streamline editorial workflows, reduce administrative burdens, and ensure a smooth publishing experience for authors, editors, and reviewers. Each of the platforms listed above offers unique features tailored to different types of academic publishing needs.
Whether you’re a large academic publisher seeking a robust solution like Editorial Manager or a small journal exploring open-source options like OJS, finding the ideal JMS can enhance productivity, improve the user experience, and elevate the quality of your journal’s publications.