Journal Ranking based on Publication Difficulty Factors (JRpDF): A Proposed Mathematical Algorithm

Abstract

Abstract. Academic publishing appears to be the most important key of the academic functions (academic research, excellence in teaching and learning and community services). Selecting the right journal to publish research results is a challenge to academics. Yet, there is inadequate knowledge about a model specifically directed at the topic of the journal selection process with a mathematical certainty. The objectives of this research are: to identify the main factors that an author or researchers consider when selecting an academic journal for submitting a manuscript, and, to develop a mathematical algorithm of journal selection that provide the best journal choice with a mathematical certainty based on difficulty of each factor. Quantitative research through questionnaires has been applied as an appropriate instrument base to address the researcher’s identification of the factors that should be considered when selecting a journal for submission a manuscript. Questionnaire developed and emailed to academics in 31 public and private universities in the developing countries. Academics in the sample reported that the most important publication difficulty factors were publishing in reputable journals that are indexed and abstracted in well-known databases, and publishing in a journal that has an impact factor. However, the most least publication difficulty factors were found to be: number of issues per year of the journal and if the journal is an open access or with subscription. The proposed mathematical algorithm (equation) and a graphical model of journal’s publication difficulty factors were developed and tested on a sample of journals.