Peer-Review and Publication Policy

ISRN Journal: Manuscript Submission Process

The journal operates a rigorous double-blind peer-review process, which ensures complete objectivity by keeping the identities of both the author and the reviewer unknown to each other throughout the evaluation. Reviewers are expected to complete their assessment thoroughly and constructively within the allocated timeframe, typically 2-6 weeks, or to promptly inform the editorial office if an extension is needed. This detailed review must address the manuscript's strengths and weaknesses and base all recommendations solely on objective criteria to maintain the highest standards of academic integrity.

Overview of the Manuscript Submission Process:

  1. Manuscript Submission:
    • Authors submit their manuscripts through the ISRN online submission system for initial consideration.
  2. First Decision: Desk Review
    • Initial Screening: Upon submission, your manuscript will undergo a desk review by the editorial team. This is a preliminary review to ensure that your paper aligns with the journal's scope and meets the necessary quality standards.
    • Outcome of Desk Review:
      • Accepted for Peer Review: If the manuscript passes the desk review, it will be forwarded to a Section Editor and assigned to reviewers for further evaluation.
      • Desk Rejected: If the manuscript does not meet the journal's criteria, it will be desk-rejected and returned to the author. The author will be notified and feedback will be provided where possible.
    • Expected Time frame: The desk review process generally takes around 5 to 10 days. During this time, we assess whether the manuscript is a good fit for ISRN.
  3. Editorial Decision:
    • If the manuscript passes the desk review, it is assigned to an editorial team member who will decide whether to proceed with the review process.
  4. Assign Section Editor:
    • A Section Editor is assigned to oversee the manuscript’s review process, ensuring it proceeds smoothly and efficiently.
  5. Reviewer Assignment:
    • The Section Editor assigns 2-3 expert reviewers to evaluate the manuscript’s content, methodology, and significance in the field of study.
  6. Reviewer Decision:
    • Reviewers provide feedback and recommend one of the following outcomes:
      • Major Revision: Significant changes required before the manuscript can be considered for publication.
      • Minor Revision: Minor changes required before the manuscript can be accepted for publication.
      • Rejected: The manuscript is not suitable for publication in ISRN.
  7. Review Feedback Assessed by Editor:
    • The Section Editor reviews the feedback provided by the reviewers and makes the final decision regarding the manuscript’s status.
  8. Final Decision:
    • Based on the reviewers' recommendations and editor's assessment, the manuscript is either:
      • Accepted: The manuscript is accepted for publication after the necessary revisions.
      • Rejected: The manuscript is rejected and cannot be published.
  9. Production:
    • Once accepted, the manuscript enters the production phase, where it undergoes formatting, proofreading, and final adjustments before publication.
  10. Publication:
    • The final version of the manuscript is published in the journal and made publicly available.