Peer Review within Open Access Publishing
As part of Peer Review Week 2023, here we will give you an insight into how our peer review system at MDPI Books helps to ensure the high quality of our authors' works.
Ensuring Quality and Transparency at MDPI Books
At MDPI Books, our commitment is to maintain the highest standards of scholarly content while ensuring complete transparency in our evaluation process. We understand the unique challenges posed by open access book publishing, and we have established a rigorous review system to ensure that we put forth only the highest-quality publications.
In the realm of academic publishing, quality and transparency are paramount. These are the pillars upon which MDPI Books stands, and detailed below is how we uphold them.
When a manuscript finds its way to us, it undergoes thorough examination. Just as in traditional publishing, open access book proposals are subject to a comprehensive assessment by our experienced editors. During the next step, we actively seek the expertise of respected academic specialists who provide impartial evaluations on various aspects such as originality, significance, quality of the presentation, scientific soundness, interest to the readers, overall merit and inappropriate self-citations. This two-step approach ensures that we adhere to rigorous standards in selecting works for publication.
Transparency is one of our core values; it fosters trust and keeps us accountable. We believe in being clear about our review procedures to eliminate any ambiguity in our process. For this reason, the details of peer review are clearly indicated on the webpage of each MDPI Open Access Book. In the rare case that traditional peer review was not performed, there will be a statement on the book webpage and in the front matter of the book detailing the evaluation steps that were taken.
How Reviews are Conducted
Our reviewers are carefully selected. They are impartial experts with no affiliations or recent collaborations with authors, ensuring an unbiased evaluation. Their expertise is derived from recent publications, guaranteeing that the assessment is both current and relevant.
Review timelines can vary, depending on the complexity of the work and the availability of reviewers. Our single-blind peer review process ensures that reviewer identities remain confidential, allowing for honest and unbiased feedback.
For manuscripts that require revision, we offer clear pathways. When major revisions are needed, authors are granted ample time to resubmit, ensuring that the work reaches its full potential. For manuscripts with minor issues, adjustments can be made, streamlining the publication process.
A Note on Indexing
Quality assurance doesn't end with peer review. We understand that it extends to indexing. MDPI Books partners with esteemed indexing services like OAPEN, which mandates independent external peer reviews before publication. This ensures that our books meet the highest standards.
Challenges of Peer Review in Open Access Publishing and MDPI Books' Commitments
Open access book publishing presents its own set of challenges, such as finding niche topic reviewers and addressing the complexities of multidisciplinary works. Longer content may require more time for thorough evaluation, and diverse formats can pose unique challenges, but we are committed to overcoming these complexities.
At MDPI Books, we are on a continuous journey to advance knowledge. We extend our gratitude to our dedicated reviewers and authors who make this journey possible. Together, we continue to set the bar high for quality and transparency in open access book publishing.
For more insights and answers to common questions about MDPI Open Access Books, please visit MDPI Books | FAQ