Sourcing Content and Authors

This chapter deals with the important topic of content, i.e. the research papers that the editor aims to accept for publication in the journal. I differentiate between newly and long-established journals, explore how content can be commissioned or sourced from different venues, and also explain the unique value proposition of special issues. Quality is a key criterion for sourcing to which the editor must pay special attention, since poor quality publications will damage the journal’s reputation. Finally, I consider the motivations of authors to submit their research to a journal.