A framework for assessing publishing practices and standards

Journals in the developing world face challenges in becoming known and respected in the international research landscape. Since 1998 the Journals Online project has established a network of local journal platforms to help Southern journals gain an online presence and increase their global visibility. The framework described in this document is a response to the second part of the challenge: that of increasing respect for Southern journals.

Concerns are often raised about the perceived quality and transparency of publication processes for Southern journals. This, in turn, limits the perceived credibility of the research published within those journals.

The Journal Publishing Practices and Standards (JPPS) framework provides detailed assessment criteria for the quality of publishing practices of Southern journals and is initially being used to assess the journals hosted on JOL platforms.

Journals assessed against the JPPS criteria are given one of six levels: inactive titlenew titleno starsone startwo stars; and three stars. The assigned JPPS levels serve a dual purpose. For readers, they provide assurance that the journals meet an internationally recognized set of criteria at a particular level. For journal editors, the detailed feedback from the JPPS assessment helps them identify ways to improve their publishing practices and standards with a view to achieving a higher level at the next assessment.

The JPPS framework was conceptualised and developed by AJOL in consultation with many African journal partners. The JPPS was then established in collaboration with INASP, and is now fully managed by AJOL.

Glossary of acronyms and terms used in this site:

JOLJournals Online, a platform for hosting
locally published research established
through INASP’s JOLs Project and managed
by INASP, AJOL or other local partners
JPPSJournal Publishing Practices and Standards
JPPS frameworkAll the documentation and processes
relating to the JPPS, including the
journal application questionnaire,
the assessment questionnaire,
assessment results, journal
assessment reports and levels
Guide to the JPPS frameworkThe document describing the framework,
rationale and criteria
JPPS assessment questionnaireThe questionnaire used by JPPS assessors
to evaluate journal publishing practices
and standards
JPPS levelsThe levels that journals are allocated to
as a result of the assessment
JPPS assessment reportsThe individual journal reports generated
in the process