Review Process
The IBM Journal process begins by submitting your paper online to the Platform of your chosen Journal. The manuscript, high quality figures, cover letter and author information are required for this;
Further details and guidance about ‘Submitting’ can be found here.
Once your paper has been submitted, the IBM Journal Admin will most likely acknowledge the receipt of your manuscript. This will likely contain a reference number required for future correspondence.
The Editor will next make a ‘desk rejection or acceptance’ and inform you of their decision. This can generally take up to max.30 days, though some journals are quicker. Keep an eye on your mailbox or check on your account on IBM Journal If you are successful at this stage, the Editor will next assign a number of field specialists for the purpose of Panel Review.
If unsuccessful, get back on your horse and get about re-writing your paper for the next Journal on your list!
Information about ‘Dealing with Rejections’ can be found here
The Review process can take a long time (approximately 30 – 60+ days), and will likely provide a mixed barrel of feedback for you and the Editor with regard to your manuscript. The reviewers will advise if they believe the paper is fit for publication.
On the basis of these reviews, the Editor will decide if your paper is either:
- a) Rejected
- b) Accepted with revisions
- c) Accepted as is
Once you have completed your revisions and provided a ‘Revised version of Manuscript’ to the Editor, these will be assessed (either by the Editor or re-assessed by the Reviewers depending on the nature of changes). Once satisfied, you will finally be accepted for publication: hurrah! But the long tiresome road is not quite over yet (sorry)… There is a final hurdle to get through: proofing, some legalizing, some thanking, and finally, some celebrating!