Database of open-access journals tightens its quality control
DOI: 10.1063/PT.5.028149
Nature : Set up in 2003 to provide a definitive database of open-access scholarly publications, the Directory of Open Access Journals (DOAJ) has grown to comprise some 10 000 listings. However, because of complaints that some of the journals exercise questionable practices, such as providing minimal peer review, the DOAJ has decided to introduce stricter standards. To weed out the substandard journals, all publishers have been asked to reapply for listing on the DOAJ website. The new application form requests more detailed information about each journal, including specifics concerning the quality and transparency of its editorial process, its digital archiving policy, and its content licensing. DOAJ founder Lars Bjørnshauge hopes that the reapplication process will create one of the largest “whitelists” of acceptable open-access journals.
