The role of Special Issues in Journal Growth

Special Issues appear to be important for small journals that are starting in academic publishing.

Maximising Editorial Board Potential: For small-medium-sized journals, it is crucial to maximize the full potential of the journal's Editorial Board Members (EBMs). Organizing or supervising Special Issues is explicitly listed as a defined responsibility and a way EBMs can participate in the journal's activities.

Attracting Quality Content: Special Issues are a key strategy for attracting suitable expert authors and high-quality papers. Scholars are more likely to trust a journal when they see distinguished scholars and recognized experts, such as EBMs or well-known Guest Editors (GEs), involved. A successful Special Issue relies on active GEs who can help invite papers. The sources show examples of EBMs recommending colleagues or experts to invite for submissions, including for Special Issues.

Journal Development and Visibility: Setting up at least one Special Issue during their term is listed as a minimum requirement for EBMs. Special Issues contribute to the "Special Issue Strategy" of the journal. They can also be part of marketing activities, such as Joint Special Issues recommended by EiCs/EBMs. Attracting high-quality papers, often through avenues like Special Issues involving distinguished researchers, is important for journal development, particularly when aiming for indexing in major databases.

Focus on Quality: It is emphasized that one good Special Issue can be better than ten bad ones. This highlights the importance of selecting good topics with a decent and not too narrow scope, and ensuring the GE has a good background and is active. Hot topics are identified as important for successful Special Issues.

Ethical Considerations and Management: As an EBM involved in Special Issues, you would need to consider aspects such as evaluating the qualifications of proposed GEs. You might also be involved in handling submissions to the Special Issue, ensuring rigorous peer review and making editorial decisions, potentially including those relating to ethical concerns. Conflicts of Interest (CoIs) must be declared and managed for all involved, including GEs, authors, and reviewers.

In summary, for a small, starting journal, Special Issues leverage the expertise and network of the Editorial Board to attract quality submissions and enhance the journal's content and reputation, which are vital for its growth and success in the academic publishing landscape. The focus should be on organizing high-quality Special Issues on relevant topics.