How do people access the content in my journal?

Jacqueline K. Owens, PhD, RN, CNE

Leslie H. Nicoll, PhD, MBA, RN, FAAN

At the Trailhead

Why this matters: Publishing content does not guarantee readership. Access pathways shape who finds your journal and how it influences the field.
What judgment this supports: Editors must consider discoverability and accessibility as part of editorial strategy.
How an editor might use this: An editor might review indexing, distribution channels, and communication practices to strengthen readership.

This content is part of the Working Guide to Editorial Systems.

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As an Editor, what do I need to know about models of early publication?

Jacqueline K. Owens, PhD, RN, CNE

At the Trailhead

Why this matters: Early publication models such as Online First, Publish Ahead of Print, and Continuous Publication affect how articles are cited, corrected, and communicated to authors. Editors need to understand these differences to avoid confusion and ensure consistent messaging.
What judgment this supports: Helps editors decide how their journal will define and communicate early publication practices, including terminology, version control, and author expectations.
How an editor might use this: Review the journal’s current early publication model, standardize terminology (e.g., Online First), and clarify the process in author guidelines, acceptance letters, and editorial workflows.

This content is part of the Working Guide to Editorial Systems.

Access is available to subscribers.

Join us for practical guidance, real editorial decisions,

and to learn more about the systems that shape scholarly publishing.

Join Now to Continue Reading

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