Choosing a scholarly journal during manuscript submission: the way how it rings true for physiatrists.

BACKGROUND

Research and publications are increasing in Physical and Rehabilitation Medicine (PRM). Hence, there appears to be a multifaceted and challenging turnover in our scientific niche involving authors, editors, publishers and readers in a complex interplay.

AIM

To explore the manuscript submission process from the side of the authors, and to better understand their perceptions and preferences.

DESIGN

A survey study.

SETTING

E-mail and personal contact.

POPULATION

European researchers working in the field of PRM.

METHODS

A questionnaire was specifically prepared for this study. The first part included questions regarding personal and scientific background; in the second part the attendants rated 20 items (with respect to several journal characteristics) on a 4-point semantic differential scale; and the third part contained two open ended questions regarding additional factors that the authors considered during submission.

RESULTS

Area of interest (mission and contents) of the journal within the "Rehabilitation" category, absolute impact factor of the journal, match between perceived "quality" of their study and journal impact factor were considered to be the three most important factors by the authors.

CONCLUSION

In a scientific environment where the numbers of research and publication outlets alike are growing, it is important to understand how authors choose where to publish their papers.

CLINICAL REHABILITATION IMPACT

We believe that editors, and publishers as well, would take into account our findings to best meet the needs of all actors in the competitive marketplace of scholarly publishing in PRM.