Author: Prakash Nagarajan

Enabling Accessibility in Scholarly Publishing – A Conversation with Lakshmanan Thirumoorthy

Posted on by Prakash Nagarajan

Beyond the Page – Thought Leadership, Insights, and Stories from the Heart of Integra

Welcome to Beyond the Page, where we go beyond publishing to bring you thought leadership, insights, and stories from the heart of Integra. Each episode features Integra’s leaders and experts as they share their vision, strategies, and experiences in shaping the future of the industry. Tune in for an exclusive look at the minds driving innovation and transformation within our organization.

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In an era where digital content is pervasive, ensuring accessibility is more important than ever. Lakshmanan Thirumoorthy, Deputy General Manager – Production & QA Services at Integra, leads a team that focuses on providing end-to-end accessibility solutions for publishers across various industries. From education publishing to research and scholarly publishing, Lakshmanan’s expertise lies in helping clients ensure their content is universally accessible, meeting global standards and providing inclusive access for all readers.

In this interview, Lakshmanan shares his insights into the importance of accessibility in publishing, the challenges publishers face, and how Integra helps them meet these challenges, particularly in the fields of education and research publishing.

Getting to Know Lakshmanan

Lakshmanan, could you tell us about your role at Integra and how your journey led you to focus on accessibility solutions for the publishing industry?

Lakshmanan: Sure! I head the QA Services delivery unit at Integra, where we specialize in functionality and content checking for eLearning platforms and web-based products.

My journey in the digital publishing industry began with transforming content into various formats such as HTML, XML, EPUB, and PDFs. Over the years, I have worked extensively with University Press books, journals, and magazines—each requiring a deep understanding of content structure, metadata, and regulatory compliance.

With 24 years of experience, I have witnessed and addressed many challenges in digital content transformation—from structuring data as per document type definitions to clarifying business rules, defining automation requirements for developers, and effectively demonstrating scenarios to publishers. Instead of seeing these as obstacles, I viewed them as opportunities—each requiring tailored solutions to streamline workflows and enhance efficiency.

As the publishing industry shifts toward accessibility and inclusivity, the demand for WCAG-compliant content has grown significantly. My focus has been on ensuring digital content is accessible to all users, including those with disabilities, helping publishers meet compliance standards while maintaining content integrity.

What does your day-to-day work as Deputy General Manager of Production & QA Services entail? How do you manage the accessibility aspect across different types of publishing?

Lakshmanan: My primary focus is integrating accessibility compliance into every stage of digital content transformation. My day-to-day work involves a mix of strategic planning, troubleshooting with teams, automation, and process optimization.

Each type of Web and Non-Web content follows a unique set of comprehensive accessibility guidelines, enabling publishers to make their digital content more inclusive.

  • EPUB Accessibility: Ensures proper structural markup, text spacing, adjustable font sizes (using sans-serif fonts), CSS display settings, text alternatives for meaningful images, embedding pre-recorded audio and video, activating navigation links, defining document properties, and maintaining color contrast.
  • PDF Accessibility: Focuses on logical reading order, tab order, text alternatives for images, bookmarks for navigation, proper content tagging, OCR for scanned PDFs, activated links, document properties, and color contrast adjustments.
  • Web Accessibility: Covers page titles, meaningful sequence, orientation, use of color, reflow, keyboard operability, input modalities, consistent navigation, identification, help/search features, and status messages to ensure seamless user interaction.
  • MS Office Accessibility: Applies to Word documents, Excel spreadsheets, and PowerPoint presentations, each with its own set of guidelines for structured content, alternative text, and keyboard navigation.
  • Video & Audio Accessibility: Involves captions, transcripts, sign language interpretation, and audio descriptions to make multimedia content accessible to all users.

By addressing these accessibility requirements across different content types, I help publishers ensure compliance with WCAG standards while improving the user experience for diverse audiences.

What excites you most about the growing focus on accessibility in education and research publishing?

Lakshmanan: In the past, accessibility was often seen as an afterthought. Today, it has become a core requirement in digital publishing, ensuring that students, researchers, and educators have equal access to information, regardless of their abilities.

Universal Design for Learning (UDL) guidelines provide concrete strategies that can be applied across disciplines to ensure that all learners can engage in meaningful and challenging learning experiences.

This significant growth in accessibility has led to digital publications being more widely available on eReaders like iPad, Kindle, and Screen Readers, reducing reliance on printed hard-copy books. The combination of digitalization and accessibility compliance has broadened access to content, making learning more inclusive and interactive.

The shift towards accessibility is not just about compliance—it’s about creating an inclusive, dynamic, and engaging learning environment for everyone.

The Importance of Accessibility in Publishing

Accessibility is becoming a central focus in publishing. Why is accessibility so crucial for the publishing industry, especially in education and research publishing?

Lakshmanan: Accessibility is essential because it removes barriers, allowing students, researchers, and professionals to engage with content independently.

  • It enables students with disabilities to access textbooks, assignments, and assessments in formats that suit their learning needs.
  • Digital content with alt text, captions, structured navigation, and interactive elements enhances comprehension and engagement.
  • Academic papers, journals, and reports become accessible to all researchers, fostering inclusive collaboration and global knowledge-sharing without restrictions.

By prioritizing accessibility, the publishing industry ensures that knowledge is truly inclusive, benefiting all learners and researchers worldwide.

In what ways does inaccessible content affect the experience of students, educators, and researchers?

Lakshmanan: When content is accessible, students learn better, educators teach more effectively, and researchers contribute without barriers, driving innovation and progress.

However, inaccessible content creates significant barriers, limiting the ability to learn, teach, and share knowledge effectively:

  • Students struggle with limited access to learning materials if features like alt text, captions, proper navigation, or screen reader compatibility are missing. This exclusion from interactive learning makes education unequal and frustrating.
  • Educators spend more time troubleshooting accessibility issues rather than focusing on effective teaching.
  • Researchers face difficulties in exploring and contributing to their fields when academic papers, reports, and journals are not structured for accessibility.

How are digital formats contributing to accessibility challenges, and how do publishers ensure that their content remains accessible across different devices and platforms?

Lakshmanan: Key Challenges in Digital accessibility:

  • Device and Browser variability: Content may display differently across eReaders, tablets, laptops, desktops, browsers, and mobile devices, leading to inconsistent experiences.
  • Multilingual Content & Screen Readers: Ensuring that screen readers interpret and pronounce text correctly in different languages is essential for comprehension.
  • Interactive & Dynamic Content: Auto-scrolling, flashing animations, or complex interactions can create barriers if not properly optimized.

Publishers can create a truly inclusive reading experience that works across all platforms and devices by implementing the following best practices:

  • Follow W3C WAI & WCAG Guidelines: Adhering to industry standards ensures compliance and inclusivity.
  • Optimize Layout & Responsiveness: Implement readable line lengths, responsive breakpoints for different screen sizes (mobile, tablet, desktop), and maximum width settings for better readability.
  • Ensure Proper Contrast & Color Use: Maintain a minimum contrast ratio of 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text (18pt+ or bold 14pt+). Avoid using color alone to convey information—use icons or text labels instead.
  • Use Semantic HTML & Logical Navigation: Avoid excessive use of ARIA roles when native HTML elements suffice. Ensure logical tab order for smooth keyboard navigation.
  • Descriptive Links & Status Messages: Instead of generic links like “Click Here” or “Learn More”, use meaningful text (e.g., “Learn More About Pricing”).
  • Manage Animations & Motion Effects: Avoid auto-scrolling or flashing effects that could trigger motion sickness or seizures. Provide options to pause, stop, or hide animations.

 

Integra’s Accessibility Solutions

Integra provides a range of accessibility services for publishers. Could you explain how Integra supports education and research publishers in making their content accessible?

Lakshmanan: Integra offers comprehensive solutions that meet global accessibility standards such as WCAG v2.2, Section 508, EAA (EN 301 549), PDF Universal Accessibility Standards, HTML5 Semantics, and EPUB Accessibility 1.0.

  • Expert-Led Manual Remediation: We avoid over-relying on automation, ensuring that all content undergoes careful manual review for high-quality accessibility solutions.
  • Customized Solutions: We provide tailored remediation for a variety of publishing platforms and digital formats, addressing the unique needs of each project.
  • Scalability: Integra has the capacity to handle large volumes of content, ensuring that accessibility standards are consistently met while maintaining compliance and accuracy.

Can you provide an example of how Integra has worked with a client in education publishing to improve the accessibility of their materials?

Lakshmanan: Certainly! One notable example is our collaboration with Pearson Education on their STEM discipline books digital-first work. Pearson required their online textbooks, workbooks, and interactive learning materials to be made accessible for students with visual impairments, hearing disabilities, and other accessibility needs.

Integra provided comprehensive accessibility services to ensure that Pearson’s educational content was fully accessible, enhancing the learning experience for all students. In addition to improving engagement, we also ensured full compliance with global accessibility standards, making the content inclusive for a wider range of learners.

Ensuring Accessibility at Every Stage of Publishing

Accessibility must be integrated early in the publishing process. Can you walk us through the typical steps Integra follows to ensure accessibility from pre-production to post-production?

Lakshmanan:

Pre-Production: Planning & Content Assessment:

  • Initial Analysis: Assessing content structure and defining accessibility requirements.
  • Guideline Definition: Outlining accessibility standards based on file formats (e.g., WCAG, Section 508).
  • Project Planning: Establishing goals, timelines, and deliverables with the client.

Production: Content Remediation & Quality Control

  • Remediation: Applying automated and manual remediation to ensure accessibility.
  • Testing: Using tools like ANDI and Axe for automated checks, supplemented by manual reviews.
  • User Feedback: Incorporating input from users with disabilities for real-world usability.

Post-Production: Final Validation & Delivery

  • Review: Conducting a final check for accessibility compliance.
  • Delivery & Support: Delivering the final content, along with post-production support for updates or adjustments.

What challenges do you face when converting print content into accessible digital formats like EPUBs and accessible PDFs, and how does Integra handle these?

Lakshmanan: I felt I already answered to this question earlier.

How does Integra ensure quality assurance (QA) throughout the process to guarantee the content is both accessible and of high quality?

Lakshmanan: I have explained in detail for similar question earlier.

Customizing Accessibility for Different Publishers

How does Integra assist research publishers in ensuring that complex academic content is presented in accessible formats, without compromising on the integrity of the content?

Lakshmanan: One key accessibility challenge is handling Math Equations in academic content. Some eReaders struggle to correctly pronounce MathML, impacting accessibility. To address this, Integra customizes solutions based on publisher preferences—offering fall back images with proper text alternatives for screen readers while ensuring seamless rendering across devices. This approach maintains both content integrity and accessibility compliance without compromising usability.

The Future of Accessibility in Education and Research Publishing

As the publishing industry evolves, where do you see the future of accessibility in education and research publishing? How do you think emerging technologies will shape this future?

Lakshmanan:

Emerging technologies like AI, voice assistants, immersive AR/VR, and haptic feedback will enhance accessibility, enabling students and researchers to engage with content in more intuitive ways.

AI-powered tools help generate alt text, convert math equations into accessible formats, and conduct automated compliance checks.

At Integra, we integrate AI-driven automation with expert-led manual remediation, ensuring efficiency without compromising quality. We use AI-based OCR for scanned content, natural language processing (NLP) for alt text generation, and automated accessibility testing tools for compliance verification.

Integra is committed to expanding its accessibility solutions by investing in advanced AI-driven tools, enhancing its accessibility testing frameworks, and strengthening partnerships with education and research publishers. We are also working on developing scalable, customizable accessibility solutions for dynamic digital content, including interactive learning modules, scientific journals, and STEM resources. Additionally, we plan to enhance our support for emerging formats like immersive e-learning, AR/VR content, and AI-powered assistive technologies to ensure universal accessibility.

Conclusion:

Thank you, Lakshmanan, for sharing your valuable insights on the importance of accessibility in education and research publishing. As the publishing world continues to embrace digital transformation, ensuring that content is accessible for all readers has never been more important. Integra’s comprehensive accessibility solutions are making it easier for publishers to comply with standards and reach a broader, more inclusive audience.

For education and research publishers looking to make their content more inclusive, Integra offers the tools and expertise to get there.

Reflecting on APE 2025: Two Decades of Scholarly Communication and the Road Ahead

Posted on by Prakash Nagarajan

The Academic Publishing in Europe (APE) Conference marked its 20th anniversary in Berlin on January 14–15, 2025. Organized by the Berlin Institute for Scholarly Publishing (BISP), APE 2025 provided a platform to reflect on two decades of advancements in scholarly communication and explore transformative ideas for the future. The event featured insightful keynotes, engaging panel discussions, and thought-provoking debates on topics such as research integrity, open science, artificial intelligence, and the evolving role of scholarly publishers.

Looking Back, Moving Forward: The Keynote by Caroline Sutton

The conference opened with a keynote by Caroline Sutton (STM), who highlighted key milestones in scholarly communication over the past 20 years and set the stage for discussions on the challenges and opportunities ahead. Research integrity, open research, and research security emerged as central themes, underscoring their continued importance in 2025 and beyond.

Unlocking the Potential of Open Access and AI

The opening panel, moderated by Sven Fund, featured Colleen Campbell (MPDL, Max Planck Society), Claudio Aspesi (Independent Consultant), and Max Mosterd (Sylla). The discussion emphasized the transformative potential of Open Access (OA) and AI technologies in scholarly publishing:

  • Colleen Campbell pointed out that publishers still rely heavily on traditional formats and must explore new technologies to meet audience needs.
  • Claudio Aspesi suggested that the cost disparity between subscription-based and OA articles may eventually converge, making OA a more viable alternative.
  • Max Mosterd advocated for repurposing research outputs into accessible formats tailored for broader audiences beyond academia.

The panel concluded with a call for post-publication solutions to enhance research accessibility, transparency, and inclusivity.

APE 2025

Breaking the Publishing Mold: Rethinking Scholarly Outputs

A panel discussion featuring Daniel Ebneter (S. Karger AG), Hemai Parthasarathy (Hemaisphere, LLC), and Henning Schoenenberger (Springer Nature) explored how innovative formats—such as video abstracts, interactive data visualizations, and podcasts—are revolutionizing scholarly communication. The shift toward multimedia formats enhances engagement, fosters interdisciplinary collaboration, and accelerates knowledge dissemination.

The Growing Importance of Research Security

With the increasing digitization of research, securing intellectual property and sensitive information has become a top priority. Discussions highlighted best practices in cybersecurity, risk assessment, and regulatory compliance to ensure that innovation thrives while being safeguarded against potential threats.

Expanding Research Impact Beyond Publications

The afternoon sessions focused on measuring and amplifying research impact beyond traditional metrics. Panelists emphasized that:

  • Research impact varies across industries and stakeholders.
  • Tailoring narratives to different audiences is essential for maximizing research influence.
  • Publishers play a crucial role in contextualizing research and embracing innovative storytelling formats.
Balancing Quantity and Quality in Research Communication

Moderated by James Butcher (Journalology), this panel featured insights from Kamran Abbasi (BMJ), Fred Fenter (Frontiers), and Antonia Seymour (IOP Publishing). The discussion addressed the challenges of information overload and the role of AI in maintaining research quality. AI was recognized as a powerful tool for peer review, citation analysis, and editorial decision-making, but human oversight remains essential to ensuring research integrity.

APE 2025

The Future of Scholarly Infrastructure

The day concluded with a session on the technological foundation of scholarly publishing. Panelists, including Sami Benchekroun (Morressier), Will Schweitzer (Silverchair), and Todd Toler (Wiley), debated whether the existing infrastructure is equipped for future challenges or requires a complete overhaul. The session set the stage for ongoing discussions on the sustainability of publishing models.

Open Science: Staying True to the Vision

Day two began with a lively debate on the true impact of Open Science. The panel, featuring Jean-Claude Guédon (Université de Montréal), Erika Pastrana (Springer Nature), Sara Rouhi (AIP Publishing), and Birgit Schmidt (Georg-August-Universität Göttingen), explored the importance of transparency in peer review and its role in fostering trust in scholarly communication.

Rethinking Research Assessment

A panel on research assessment, moderated by Bernd Pulverer (EMBO), discussed the transition away from traditional impact factors toward more comprehensive evaluation frameworks. The Barcelona Declaration on Open Research Information was highlighted as a significant step toward greater transparency in research assessment.

APE 2025

Measuring Research Funding and Impact

The final sessions examined how research funding is assessed and whether current metrics truly capture its broader societal impact. The Wellcome Trust presented insights into leveraging AI and machine learning to gain a deeper understanding of research outputs and their long-term effects.

Final Thoughts

APE 2025 reinforced the need for innovation in scholarly publishing, from embracing AI and Open Access to rethinking research assessment and security. As the industry evolves, publishers, researchers, and institutions must work together to ensure that scholarly communication remains transparent, inclusive, and impactful.

Attending APE 2025 was an enlightening experience, providing valuable perspectives on the future of academic publishing. I look forward to continuing these discussions and driving innovation in scholarly communication.

Stay tuned for more updates from Integra on the evolving landscape of scholarly publishing. If you’re interested in discussing these topics further, feel free to connect with us!

About the Author

Bart, based in the Netherlands, is a multilingual professional fluent in Dutch, English, and German. As Vice President of Business Development at Integra, he helps scholarly and educational publishers improve workflow efficiency and integrate cutting-edge technology solutions. An active member of the European Association of Science Editors (EASE), he contributes to the advancement of science editing and scholarly publishing.

AI in Scholarly Publishing: Finding the Sweet Spot Between Innovation and Integrity

Posted on by Prakash Nagarajan

A summary of [“Artificial intelligence in publishing: Navigating the balance between assistance and originality” by Ashutosh Ghildiyal, published in Editing Practice, December 2024.]

In a thought-provoking perspective piece, Ashutosh Ghildiyal, Vice President of Strategy and Growth at Integra, delves into one of academic publishing’s most pressing challenges: the integration of artificial intelligence while preserving the essence of scholarly work.

As AI tools become increasingly sophisticated, the publishing industry faces a crucial balancing act. While these tools offer promising solutions for common challenges like language barriers and structural requirements, their unchecked use could potentially undermine the very foundation of academic literature.

The Heart of Academic Writing: Human Insight

Ghildiyal emphasizes a fundamental truth: genuine scholarly work must stem from researchers’ direct observations and experiences. Words without lived experience lack depth and meaning. While an idea doesn’t need to be entirely unique to be original, it should reflect the writer’s unique perspective – something that AI alone cannot provide.

Where AI Shines (And Where It Shouldn’t)

The article outlines several appropriate applications for AI in scholarly publishing:

  • As an editing tool: Particularly valuable for non-native English speakers and those who need help with structure and clarity
  • As a thought partner: Useful for brainstorming and dialogue, while ensuring human judgment remains central
  • In technical assessment: Helping with plagiarism detection, formatting checks, and reviewer selection

However, Ghildiyal warns against letting AI replace human judgment in critical areas like peer review and editorial decision-making. The core functions that require nuanced understanding, ethical considerations, and contextual awareness must remain firmly in human hands.

A Framework for Thoughtful Implementation

The article suggests a measured approach to AI integration:

  • Begin with comprehensive workflow analysis
  • Focus first on time-consuming tasks that require minimal creativity
  • Maintain robust human oversight
  • Establish clear metrics for success
  • Roll out gradually, starting with low-risk, high-volume tasks
The Path Forward

The future of scholarly publishing lies not in choosing between human expertise and AI capabilities, but in finding ways to leverage both effectively. Success will come from thoughtful collaboration that preserves the integrity of academic work while embracing innovation’s benefits.

As Ghildiyal notes, “We should use AI to make our work better but not at the expense of our own unique thinking, insights, and work.” The goal isn’t to resist technological progress but to ensure it enhances rather than diminishes the quality and authenticity of scholarly publishing.

This balanced perspective offers valuable insights for publishers, researchers, and academic institutions navigating the AI revolution. It reminds us that while AI can be an invaluable tool, the heart of scholarly work remains fundamentally human.

Take the Next Step

At Integra, we celebrate the invaluable contributions of editorial professionals and recognize their essential role in advancing the scholarly community. Our advanced tools empower them to continue playing a crucial part in advancing human knowledge through research. As a trusted partner, we offer human expert-led, technology-assisted solutions tailored for editorial workflows, research integrity verification, and peer review management.

Contact us to explore how we can help you succeed!

About the Author

Ashutosh Ghildiyal is the Vice President of Strategy and Growth at Integra, a leading global provider of publishing services and technology. With over 18 years of experience in scholarly publishing, he champions innovation through AI-driven solutions while leading strategic growth initiatives. A recognized thought leader in scholarly communication, he works closely with scholarly societies, university presses, and educational publishers worldwide to advance transformative solutions in academic publishing.

Safeguarding Research Integrity in Open Science: Balancing Transparency with Ethical Rigor

Posted on by Prakash Nagarajan

Open science is redefining how research is conducted, shared, and applied by promoting transparency, accessibility, and global collaboration. It offers an innovative framework for democratizing knowledge, enabling researchers worldwide to access datasets, methodologies, and findings without traditional barriers. However, this openness introduces complex challenges that test the boundaries of ethical rigor and research integrity.

The risks associated with open science are varied. Data misinterpretation, unauthorized usage, and weakened peer-review systems undermine research reliability. Additionally, disputes over authorship, resource inequalities, and challenges in handling sensitive information complicate equitable knowledge sharing. These issues demand solutions that balance openness with accountability.

This article explores how the academic community can proactively address these challenges by integrating ethical education, technological tools, and policy alignment into open science practices. By focusing on core principles such as data stewardship, transparent documentation, and the FAIR (Findable, Accessible, Interoperable, Reusable) framework, researchers can navigate open ecosystems responsibly. For institutions and policymakers, investing in these measures is a strategic priority to ensure the future of research integrity.

Key Challenges to Research Integrity in Open Science

Open science fundamentally reshapes research norms, emphasizing transparency and accessibility. However, these benefits come with risks to research integrity, which require careful management.

Data Misuse and Misrepresentation

Sharing data on open-access platforms encourages collaboration but exposes researchers to potential misuse. Shared datasets may be misinterpreted or altered, leading to unreliable conclusions. For instance, fragmented datasets without contextual information can result in errors that damage trust in published research.

Rebecca Hill, Head of Open Research at Taylor and Francis, in her talk at the Frankfurt Book Fair, 2024, highlighted the importance of robust data policies in addressing fabricated or manipulated data, particularly for identifying fraudulent submissions from paper mills. Journals such as the Federation of European Biochemical Societies (FEBS) have successfully implemented these policies to detect fraudulent raw data in submitted manuscripts.

Confidentiality and Sensitive Information

Open science requires the ethical handling of sensitive data, particularly in fields such as healthcare, education and social sciences. Anonymizing personal, proprietary, or culturally sensitive information and ensuring secure management are essential. Despite these precautions, breaches of confidentiality remain a significant concern.

Authorship Conflicts and Data Ownership

As datasets and research materials become more widely available, disputes over authorship and intellectual contributions can arise. Questions of data ownership and recognition challenge traditional norms and create ethical and legal dilemmas. Hill, in her presentation, noted a case in which disputes arose among researchers from multiple institutions contributing to a shared dataset. The disagreements over intellectual property delayed publication and strained relationships between collaborators.

Pressures on Reproducibility and Peer Review

The pressure to publish rapidly in open science environments can compromise reproducibility. The surge in preprints and open-access publications has led to an influx of unverified findings, further straining the peer-review process. Without robust safeguards, ensuring the reliability of published work becomes increasingly difficult. Hill also addressed the rise of re-review mills—generic, automated peer-review processes—as a threat to research integrity. Transparent peer-review models can counter these practices by increasing accountability.

Resource Disparities and Ethical Equity

Not all researchers have equal access to the tools and resources required to engage in open science effectively. This inequity creates challenges for maintaining ethical standards, as researchers in under-resourced institutions may struggle to meet the rigorous demands of transparency and reproducibility.

Table: Summary of Research Integrity Challenges and Potential Impacts

Challenge Description Potential Impact
Data Misuse Misinterpretation or manipulation of open datasets. Misleading conclusions; loss of trust in research.
Confidentiality Risks Exposure of sensitive or proprietary data. Breaches of participant trust; ethical violations.
Authorship Conflicts Disputes over credit for data use and discoveries. Erosion of collaborative spirit; legal challenges.
Reproducibility Pressures Lack of verification for rapidly published findings. Weakening of scientific reliability; inflated claims.
Resource Disparities Inequitable access to open science tools and platforms. Ethical inequities; limited participation in global research.

Addressing these challenges requires not only awareness but also actionable solutions that embed ethics into the foundational practices of open science. Ethical education emerges as a critical tool in preparing researchers to meet these challenges head-on.

Open science and research integrity challenges

Building Responsible Open Science Practices

The challenges associated with open science are not insurmountable, but addressing them requires a deliberate focus on ethical education and training. By equipping researchers with the knowledge and tools to navigate the complexities of open ecosystems, institutions can uphold research integrity while fostering a culture of responsible scientific inquiry.

Core Competencies for Open Science Practitioners

Effective ethical education should focus on building core competencies that researchers need in open science environments:

  • Data Stewardship: Ensuring data is anonymized, securely stored, and shared responsibly.
  • Transparency Skills: Developing practices for clear documentation of methods, decisions, and datasets.
  • Critical Evaluation: Training researchers to assess the reliability of open-access findings and their applicability.
  • Collaboration Ethics: Preparing researchers to navigate authorship and contribution disputes in collaborative projects.
Incorporating FAIR Principles into Training

The FAIR principles provide a structured framework for data management in open science. By integrating these principles into ethical training, researchers learn how to make their work accessible while maintaining high standards of integrity.

Incorporating Technological Solutions

Innovative tools like persistent identifiers (e.g., ORCID) can assure the provenance of research contributions, bolstering transparency and accountability. Additionally, preprint validation systems represents new frontiers in verifying research integrity prior to publication.

Bridging the Gap: Institutional and Policy-Level Solutions

To ensure the seamless integration of research integrity into open science, institutions and policymakers must provide structural support. Comprehensive guidelines, global collaboration, and equitable resource distribution form the foundation for addressing systemic challenges.

Strategic Recommendations

Strengthening research integrity in open science requires a multifaceted approach that combines institutional support, global collaboration, and cutting-edge technology. The following strategies outline a path forward:

  1. Institutional Alignment: Align institutional policies with global frameworks such as UNESCO’s Open Science Recommendation.
  2. Global Collaboration: Participate in initiatives like United to Act which focus on addressing systemic issues such as paper mills and reproducibility.
  3. Open Peer Review Enhancement: Advocate for transparent peer-review systems to improve the quality and integrity of evaluations.
  4. Educational Interventions: Develop and implement ethical training programs emphasizing real-world scenarios to address intentional and unintentional misconduct.
  5. Technological Integration: Promote the use of advanced tools like persistent identifiers (e.g., ORCID) and FAIR-compliant data practices to future-proof open science efforts.

Ethical Preparedness as a Pillar of Open Science

Achieving a balance between transparency and ethical rigor in open science is essential for maintaining research integrity. Institutions and policymakers must prioritize ethical frameworks, invest in advanced tools, and foster collaboration across sectors to ensure openness does not compromise reliability.

To safeguard the credibility of scientific findings, the academic community must embed accountability into every stage of the research process. By championing innovations such as blockchain and AI while strengthening global partnerships, open science can become a model of transparent and principled research. This collective effort ensures not only the sustainability of open science but also its capacity to drive equitable and trustworthy knowledge-sharing for future generations.

Bridging the Gap: Maximizing Collaboration Between Editorial Teams and Journal Editorial Offices

Posted on by Prakash Nagarajan

With the pace of change in scholarly publishing accelerating, collaboration between Editorial Teams and Journal Editorial Office (JEO) Teams has become more vital than ever. As publication volumes rise and quality standards tighten, the lines between these two teams are blurring, creating exciting opportunities for synergy. In this article, we explore how these two groups can work hand-in-hand to enhance both efficiency and academic rigor in the publishing process.

The Modern Editorial Ecosystem: A New Era of Publishing

The scholarly publishing workflow has grown more intricate, demanding a delicate balance between maintaining academic excellence and ensuring operational efficiency. At the heart of this evolving ecosystem are two critical, yet interconnected, teams: the Editorial Team, which focuses on academic quality and strategy, and the JEO Team, which ensures the smooth operational execution of the publication process. Together, they form the backbone of any successful journal.

The Editorial Team: Guardians of Academic Integrity and Excellence

The Editorial Team is where academic rigor meets strategy. Comprising academic editors, subject matter experts, and dedicated editorial staff, this team is tasked with:

  • Defining the Journal’s Vision: Setting the direction and maintaining the journal’s academic scope, impact, and reputation.
  • Ensuring Academic Quality: Assessing the novelty, methodology, and potential impact of submitted manuscripts.
  • Leading Peer Review and Decision-making: Carefully selecting appropriate reviewers and integrating their feedback in the decision to ensure the highest standards of quality.
  • Ethical Oversight: Upholding publishing ethics and ensuring research integrity is maintained at every stage.

The JEO Team: The Operational Backbone of the Publishing Process

While the Editorial Team focuses on academic excellence, the JEO Team is the engine that keeps everything running smoothly. Often working behind the scenes, this team ensures that processes are streamlined and deadlines are met. Their expertise includes:

  • Submission Management: Handling manuscript tracking systems and ensuring technical compliance with submission guidelines.
  • Optimizing Processes: From submission to final decision, they ensure workflows are efficient and organized.
  • Stakeholder Communication: Acting as the central point of contact, they coordinate between authors, reviewers, and editors to keep everyone in the loop.
  • Quality Assurance: Running technical checks and ensuring consistency throughout the publishing process.

Revolutionizing the Editorial-JEO Partnership: The Key to Success

The successful journals of today are tearing down the traditional walls between the Editorial Team and the JEO Team. By embracing a more integrated approach, these teams can:

Redefine Traditional Boundaries

Rather than sticking to rigid roles, many journals are finding success by:

  • Creating flexible role definitions that can adapt to high-volume periods.
  • Introducing hybrid positions that combine both academic and operational responsibilities.
  • Cross-training team members to foster mutual understanding and appreciation of each other’s roles.
Harnessing Technology as a Collaboration Catalyst

Technology has become the bridge between Editorial and JEO teams, helping to streamline workflows and enhance collaboration. While traditional manuscript management systems like ScholarOne and Editorial Manager are staples in the industry, cutting-edge tools are taking collaboration to the next level by:

  • Integrating project management software for enhanced visibility and real-time monitoring.
  • Implementing automated quality control systems to ensure consistency at every stage.
  • Using data analytics to pinpoint bottlenecks and optimize the publishing process.
Reinventing Quality Control

Quality control in modern publishing goes far beyond traditional checks. Leading journals are embracing innovations that leverage both teams’ strengths, such as:

  • AI-powered plagiarism detection and reference checking to speed up the screening process.
  • Creating tiered screening processes that engage both teams at different stages of the manuscript review.
  • Developing comprehensive quality metrics that span both academic rigor and operational efficiency.

Best Practices for Enhanced Collaboration: Tips for Building a Stronger Partnership

To foster a more effective and seamless relationship between Editorial Teams and JEO Teams, journals can implement a few best practices:

Strategic Planning
  • Clear Communication Protocols: Establish joint strategy sessions, share access to performance dashboards, and create structured feedback mechanisms to ensure transparency.
  • Develop Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs): Define clear handoff points, set escalation protocols, and prepare contingency plans for high-volume periods.
Performance Optimization
  • Monitor Key Performance Indicators (KPIs): Track metrics such as submission-to-first-decision time, reviewer acceptance rates, author satisfaction, and technical compliance.
  • Implement Regular Quality Audits: Regularly review manuscript processing, assess peer review quality, and gather feedback through author experience surveys.

Future-Proofing the Partnership: Staying Ahead of the Curve

As the landscape of scholarly publishing continues to evolve, successful journals will need to stay ahead of the game. To do so, they must:

Embrace Technological Innovation
  • Integrate AI for Preliminary Screening: Use machine learning tools to automate manuscript screening for basic compliance and quality checks.
  • Adopt Predictive Analytics: Leverage data to predict submission trends, reviewer availability, and bottlenecks to optimize workflows.
  • Implement Blockchain for Transparency: Blockchain technology can offer greater transparency and security in the publishing process, ensuring ethical standards are met.
Invest in Team Development
  • Cross-Functional Training Programs: Equip team members with knowledge across both academic and operational areas to build a more flexible, efficient workforce.
  • Build Expertise in Emerging Technologies: Stay on top of the latest publishing trends and technologies to ensure your teams are always prepared for the future.
  • Develop Leadership Across Both Teams: Encourage leadership development within both the Editorial and JEO teams to build stronger, more collaborative leadership structures.

 

Conclusion: A New Era of Scholarly Publishing

The future of scholarly publishing is about collaboration. By breaking down traditional silos and fostering a more integrated approach between Editorial and JEO teams, journals can create an environment that is not only more efficient but also academically rigorous. With a focus on technology, streamlined processes, and team development, the collaboration between these two teams can become the cornerstone of successful, future-proofed publishing operations.

The key takeaway? Academic excellence and operational efficiency are not opposing forces—they’re complementary strengths that, when aligned, elevate the entire publishing process. By embracing this mindset, journals can deliver top-tier content while ensuring an exceptional experience for authors, reviewers, and readers alike.

Take the Next Step

At Integra, we celebrate the invaluable contributions of editorial professionals and recognize their essential role in advancing the scholarly community. Our advanced tools empower them to continue playing a crucial part in advancing human knowledge through research. As a trusted partner, we offer human expert-led, technology-assisted solutions tailored to editorial, research integrity, and peer review management.

Contact us now to explore how we can help you succeed!

About the Author:

Ashutosh Ghildiyal is the Vice President of Growth and Strategy at Integra, a leading global provider of publishing services and technology. With over 18 years of experience in scholarly publishing, he champions innovation through AI-driven solutions while leading strategic growth initiatives. A recognized thought leader in scholarly communication, he works closely with scholarly societies, university presses, and educational publishers worldwide to advance transformative solutions in academic publishing.

The New Playbook for Education Publishing: Tackling Costs, Copyright, Security and Skills

Posted on by Prakash Nagarajan

Digital transformation is reshaping the education landscape, offering unprecedented opportunities for K-12 and higher education sectors. However, this shift is accompanied by significant challenges. For educational publishers and EdTech organizations, managing costs, navigating copyright laws, ensuring data privacy, and addressing workforce skill gaps are critical considerations.

This article delves into these interconnected issues, highlighting strategies for sustainable and innovative digital transformation in education.

The Financial Burden of Digital Transformation

One of the foremost challenges for educational publishers is the escalating cost of developing high-quality digital content and platforms. Unlike traditional resources, digital tools require continual investment in platform updates, software integration, and user support.

  • Costs of Development: EdTech spending is expected to grow from $250 billion in 2022 to $620 billion by 2030, driven by increased internet access and scalable technology. However, these advancements also demand continuous investment from education providers to keep pace with innovation.
  • Pressure from Open Access: Open access initiatives, while promoting equity, place additional pressure on financial sustainability. Many organizations struggle to balance free access with maintaining quality and infrastructure.

Strategies for Cost Management:

  • Implement phased rollouts starting with limited features to test and refine products.
  • Exploring subscription-based services, tiered pricing models, and partnerships with educational institutions.
  • Focus on measuring return on investment (ROI) for each digital initiative to balance short-term costs with long-term benefits.
  • Explore collaborative content development with educational institutions to reduce duplication of efforts and costs.

Organizations often collaborate with specialized service providers with comprehensive capabilities to streamline content and technology development processes, ensuring high-quality outcomes while managing budgets efficiently.

Copyright and Licensing in the Digital Ecosystem

Copyright and licensing complexities present significant hurdles for publishers transitioning to digital platforms. Intellectual property laws, originally designed for print media, often become ambiguous in the context of digital products. For example, the use of multimedia elements or adaptive learning tools involves complex licensing negotiations.

Partnering with rights and permissions management experts can help publishers navigate complex licensing agreements and ensure compliance with intellectual property regulations.

To address these challenges, publishers must adopt hybrid copyright strategies:

  • Balance traditional copyright models with open licensing.
  • Develop modular content frameworks that allow partial licensing, catering to diverse audience needs.
  • Train staff to navigate licensing intricacies, reducing legal risks.

Data Privacy and Security in the Digital Age

The shift toward data-driven learning tools has increased concerns about privacy and security. Sensitive student information, collected by platforms for personalization, creates risks of breaches and regulatory non-compliance.

Notable Privacy Regulations:

  • FERPA: Protects students’ education records in the U.S.
  • GDPR: Governs data protection in the European Union.
  • COPPA: Focuses on online privacy for children under 13 in the U.S.

Recent data from IBM suggests that the average cost of a data breach is $4.88 million, underscoring the financial implications of inadequate privacy measures.

Best Practices for Privacy and Security:

  • Invest in privacy-first analytics tools to balance data-driven innovation with security.
  • Conduct regular compliance audits to ensure adherence to global regulations.
  • Incorporate encryption and secure storage solutions into platform design.

The Human Element – Skills Gap

Digital transformation demands a workforce skilled in managing and analyzing digital platforms. However, many educational publishers and institutions struggle to recruit and retain professionals capable of bridging the gap between technology and pedagogy.

A systematic literature review highlights that higher education institutions often face challenges related to the lack of staff with new technical skills, such as programming, data analysis, and software development. This skills gap can hinder the smooth transition to digital platforms and the effective implementation of new technologies.

Leveraging end-to-end education content production and management solutions can help organizations efficiently deliver personalized learning experiences across diverse formats.

Solutions for Bridging the Gap:

  • Invest in professional development programs to upskill existing staff.
  • Establish partnerships with academic institutions to create talent pipelines.
  • Leverage cross-sector collaboration to share resources and training programs.

The Interconnected Challenges of Digital Transformation

The challenges of cost, copyright, data privacy, and workforce skills are deeply intertwined. For instance:

  • Investing in skilled professionals enhances platform security and compliance capabilities.
  • Effective copyright management can reduce legal costs while expanding access to resources.
  • Addressing privacy concerns builds trust, leading to higher adoption rates and stronger ROI.

Here is a summary of how these challenges interconnect and influence one another:

Challenge Impact on Other Areas Strategic Consideration
Cost Management Affects investment in skills, platforms, and compliance. Evaluate ROI and adopt phased rollouts.
Copyright and Licensing Influences content accessibility and cost-effectiveness. Adopt hybrid copyright strategies.
Data Privacy and Security Requires skilled staff and robust technological solutions. Prioritize privacy-first tools and secure storage.
Workforce Skill Gap Impacts the ability to implement scalable and secure platforms. Upskill workforce and establish talent pipelines.

 

Strategic Recommendations for Moving Forward

To navigate these complexities, educational publishers and EdTech organizations can adopt the following strategies:

  • Innovative Cost Management:
    • Embrace subscription-based models and tiered pricing to sustain open access initiatives.
    • Experiment with modular content delivery for better flexibility.
  • Enhanced Copyright Compliance:
    • Develop open licensing frameworks that align with audience needs.
    • Provide staff training to navigate digital copyright intricacies effectively.
  • Data Privacy and Security:
    • Implement zero-trust security architecture to minimize breach risks.
    • Partner with third-party privacy experts for compliance audits.
  • Upskilling Workforce:
    • Introduce mentorship programs and professional certifications to build in-house capabilities.
    • Collaborate with academic institutions to shape the curriculum for future EdTech professionals.
  • Integrated Planning:
    • Use systems-thinking approaches to design solutions addressing interconnected challenges.
    • Foster cross-functional collaboration between content developers, IT specialists and legal teams.

Embracing Digital Transformation Responsibly

Digital transformation represents more than a technological shift—it’s a comprehensive evolution of how educational content is created, shared, and experienced. Addressing the interconnected challenges of cost, copyright, data privacy, and workforce development is essential for building a resilient and innovative digital education ecosystem.

Educational publishers and EdTech organizations must prioritize collaboration, continuous evaluation, and strategic adaptability. By doing so, they can transform challenges into opportunities, enhancing learning outcomes for students worldwide.

Content, Technology, Change: Top Higher Education Publishing and EdTech Trends Shaping 2025

Posted on by Prakash Nagarajan

The higher education publishing industry is experiencing profound changes, driven by technological advancements, evolving learner expectations, and a growing demand for equitable access to educational resources. As we approach 2025, publishers must adapt to a dynamic landscape where new trends are reshaping how knowledge is created, distributed, and consumed.

This article explores five pivotal trends influencing higher education publishing: Open Education Resources (OER), digital resources, personalized learning, artificial intelligence, and data analytics. Together, these trends outline the future of an industry striving to balance innovation, accessibility, and sustainability.

Open Education Resources: Breaking Barriers to Knowledge

Open Education Resources (OER) are transforming the way educational content is developed and accessed. Unlike traditional models, OER prioritizes free and adaptable resources that cater to a broad spectrum of learners and educators worldwide.

Why OER Matters

  • Access Without Barriers: By removing cost constraints, OER ensures that students, especially those in underserved regions, have access to critical learning materials. This focus on inclusivity aligns with global efforts to reduce education inequality.
  • Customizable Content: OER materials, often licensed under Creative Commons, can be modified to reflect specific cultural, linguistic, or curricular needs. This adaptability enhances relevance for diverse audiences.
  • Collaborative Potential: OER fosters a community-driven approach to education, enabling educators to share, refine, and expand upon each other’s work. This culture of collaboration drives creativity and resource efficiency.

Challenges for Publishers

Transitioning to an OER-driven model presents unique challenges:

  • Financial Viability: Publishers must explore alternative revenue streams, such as offering premium services or bundling OER with additional paid resources.
  • Quality Assurance: Ensuring the credibility and rigor of OER remains a challenge, as content may not undergo traditional editorial and peer-review processes.

By integrating OER into their strategies, publishers can play a pivotal role in shaping an accessible and inclusive future for higher education.

Digital Resources and Platforms: A Shift to Digital-First

Digital transformation has fundamentally changed higher education publishing, placing digital-first strategies at the heart of content development and delivery. From interactive textbooks to virtual learning platforms, digital resources have become indispensable in modern education.

Key Developments in Digital Publishing

  • Interactive Textbooks: Digital versions of textbooks now incorporate multimedia elements such as videos, animations, and interactive quizzes, offering a richer learning experience.
  • Virtual Learning Platforms: Platforms like Learning Management Systems (LMS) integrate a range of resources, creating an ecosystem that supports collaborative and self-paced learning.

Advantages and Challenges

Digital platforms bring scalability and flexibility to higher education. Unlike traditional print, digital resources can be updated in real-time, ensuring they remain relevant and aligned with changing curricula. However, challenges such as content piracy and limited internet access in underserved areas persist.

For publishers, embracing digital-first strategies is essential for staying relevant in a rapidly evolving educational landscape. Success lies in creating adaptable resources that enhance engagement while addressing access and security challenges.

Personalized Learning: Tailoring Education to Every Learner

Classrooms today include students from many different backgrounds, with unique goals and personal challenges. Personalized learning acknowledges this diversity, creating experiences that resonate with learners’ specific needs and preferences.

The push for personalization in education reflects a growing emphasis on meeting the unique needs of individual learners. Personalized learning leverages data and technology to deliver customized content and pathways, enhancing student engagement and outcomes.

The Role of Adaptive Technologies

  • Dynamic Adjustments: Adaptive learning systems assess student performance in real time, adjusting the complexity and type of content based on progress.
  • Individualized Support: Personalized dashboards in LMS platforms help students track their learning journey, access tailored resources, and stay motivated.

Challenges in Implementation

Developing personalized content requires substantial investments in technology, content creation, and instructional design expertise. Publishers must also ensure data privacy when collecting and analyzing student information to tailor these experiences.

Personalized learning is redefining the educational landscape, offering publishers a unique opportunity to innovate while placing learners at the center of their strategies.

Artificial Intelligence: Revolutionizing Content Creation and Delivery

Artificial intelligence (AI) has become a transformative force in higher education publishing, reshaping how content is produced, reviewed, and distributed. By automating complex processes, AI enables publishers to enhance efficiency and deliver high-quality resources at scale.

AI in Action

  • Content Creation: AI tools assist in summarizing academic texts, generating practice questions, and creating supplementary resources. These capabilities allow publishers to expand their offerings without straining human resources.
  • Streamlined Workflows: From detecting plagiarism to recommending peer reviewers, AI optimizes editorial processes, reducing time-to-publication while maintaining quality.
  • Personalized Delivery: AI-powered algorithms analyze learner behavior, suggesting content that aligns with individual learning preferences and improving outcomes.
  • Personal AI Tutor: Leveraging AI as a learning agent, personalized tutors adapt to individual learners’ needs, providing real-time feedback, customized lesson plans, and interactive learning experiences while being always available for learners to interact, ensuring continuous support and engagement.

Ethical and Practical Considerations

Like any disruptive and highly accessible tool, AI demands thoughtful and responsible application. Concerns about bias in algorithms, which may unintentionally perpetuate inequalities, demand vigilant oversight. Transparency is equally critical—publishers must ensure users understand how AI-driven tools work and the rationale behind their outputs.

AI’s potential to transform educational publishing is vast, but its success hinges on thoughtful implementation that balances innovation with ethical responsibility.

Data Analytics: Driving Informed Decision-Making

Data analytics is revolutionizing decision-making in higher education publishing, offering publishers deep insights into how their content is consumed and its impact on learning outcomes. By analyzing patterns in user behavior, publishers can refine their offerings to better meet the needs of educators and students.

The Role of Analytics in Publishing

  • Understanding Reader Behavior: By tracking metrics like time spent on pages, completion rates, and engagement levels, publishers can identify which content resonates most with users. This data enables targeted improvements and the creation of more impactful resources.
  • Assessing Learning Impact: Analytics tools provide educators and institutions with detailed reports on student progress, helping them tailor interventions to maximize learning effectiveness.

Challenges and Opportunities

While analytics provides a wealth of opportunities, it also raises questions about data privacy and compliance. Regulations like GDPR and FERPA require publishers to implement robust data protection measures. Additionally, integrating data from diverse sources into cohesive insights requires sophisticated infrastructure and expertise.

When used responsibly, data analytics becomes a powerful tool for optimizing content delivery, improving learner outcomes, and driving innovation in educational publishing.

Charting the Future of Educational Publishing

The trends of open access, digital resources, personalized learning, artificial intelligence, and data analytics are not just shaping the future of higher education publishing—they are defining it. By embracing these shifts strategically, publishers can enhance the learning experience, expand accessibility, and remain competitive in an ever-changing landscape.

Success in this evolving landscape requires a balanced approach that prioritizes accessibility, sustainability, and ethical responsibility. Publishers that adapt strategically will not only remain relevant but also play a pivotal role in advancing global education.

Advancing Society Publishing: Strategies for Sustainable Growth and Community Impact

Posted on by Prakash Nagarajan

The Future of Society Publishing: Embracing Change While Preserving Mission

Society publishers are at a pivotal moment in the evolution of scholarly communications. While commercial publishers leverage vast resources and economies of scale, society publishers provide something uniquely valuable: deep community connections and specialized expertise that drive meaningful impact in their fields. This intimate understanding of scholarly communities, coupled with a mission-driven approach, enables society publishers to not only survive but thrive in today’s fast-paced and ever-changing landscape.

Why Society Publishers Matter More Than Ever

Society publishers serve as the vital link between research and practice, fostering collaboration in ways that commercial publishers often struggle to match. Their role as trusted stewards of knowledge, placing community needs over profit, has never been more crucial. Yet, this position brings its own set of challenges:

Current Landscape Challenges

The transition to open access, growing competition for author attention, and limited resources create a complex operating environment. Society publishers must find a balance between:

  • Financial sustainability in an open science world
  • Technology investment needs versus budget constraints
  • Meeting growing global author and reader expectations
  • Managing data sharing and security requirements
  • Operating with small, dedicated teams
Leveraging Unique Strengths for Success
  • Society publishers’ greatest strengths lie in their community-centric approach and specialized focus. These strengths manifest in several key areas:
Deep Community Connections
  • Editorial boards drawn from active community members ensure relevant, high-quality content
  • Direct feedback loops with authors and readers enable rapid adaptation to evolving needs
  • Strong institutional relationships build trust and foster loyalty
Quality-Focused Publishing
  • Selective acceptance rates maintain high standards of content
  • Rigorous peer review processes enhance credibility
  • Specialized content expertise delivers distinct value

Four Pillars of Modern Society Publishing Success

Modernize Operations Through Technology

Transform workflows while maintaining quality:

  • Implement end-to-end manuscript tracking systems
  • Automate routine tasks to free staff for strategic work
  • Use data analytics to drive continuous improvement
  • Enable seamless integration with preprint servers

Enhance Author Support and Services

Create a supportive publishing environment:

  • Provide comprehensive manuscript preparation guidance
  • Offer pre-submission technical checks
  • Support authors with data availability requirements
  • Develop mentoring programs for early-career researchers

Build Sustainable Open Access Models

Create flexible approaches to open science:

  • Create hybrid programs balancing subscription and OA options
  • Establish transformative agreements with institutions
  • Explore innovative funding models
  • Develop new revenue streams through premium services

Strengthen Community Engagement

Foster meaningful connections:

  • Build active digital communities around publications
  • Create interactive content formats
  • Organize virtual events and workshops
  • Facilitate networking and collaboration opportunities

Balancing Technology and the Human Element

While this article rightly highlights the role of technology in modernizing operations and boosting efficiency, it’s essential to also recognize the critical role of human expertise in scholarly publishing. The integration of advanced technologies like AI and blockchain should not be viewed as a replacement for the human element, but rather as tools that augment and support the skills of editorial staff, researchers, and other key stakeholders.

Editorial professionals, with their deep understanding of scholarly communities, remain indispensable in curating high-quality content, ensuring the integrity of the peer review process, and engaging meaningfully with authors and readers. While technology can automate routine tasks and streamline workflows, it is human judgment, insight, and creativity that drive the core value of society publishing.

In this evolving landscape, technology should empower editorial teams rather than replace them. For example, AI can assist in manuscript triage, recommending reviewers, and detecting plagiarism, but it cannot replace the nuanced decision-making required to assess the quality and impact of research. Similarly, while data analytics can provide valuable insights into publishing trends and audience behaviors, it’s the editorial staff who interpret this data to guide decisions that align with the values of the community.

Moreover, the human aspect of publishing is essential in maintaining trust and integrity—two qualities that define the mission-driven approach of society publishers. Building relationships with authors, mentoring early-career researchers, and nurturing long-term loyalty within scholarly communities are roles that technology cannot fully replace. As publishers adopt new technologies, the role of human expertise must remain central, ensuring that innovation enhances rather than disrupts the personal connections and knowledge stewardship that underpin the mission of society publishers.

By ensuring that technology complements the human element, society publishers can create a more efficient, scalable, and impactful publishing process that stays true to their values and mission.

Looking Forward: Innovation with Purpose

The future of society publishing lies in embracing innovation while staying true to core missions. Key areas for focus include:

Emerging Technologies
  • Artificial Intelligence for workflow enhancement
  • Blockchain for peer review recognition
  • Alternative metrics for impact measurement
  • Enhanced data sharing infrastructure
Building Resilience
  • Diversifying revenue streams
  • Investing in staff development
  • Forming strategic partnerships
  • Maintaining agility in response to change

 

Conclusion: Leading Through Change

Society publishers are uniquely positioned to reshape scholarly communication. By embracing technology while leveraging their distinctive community connections, they can create sustainable models that advance knowledge and support their missions more effectively than ever before.

The path forward requires a delicate balance: maintaining the trust and quality that define society publishing while innovating to meet evolving needs. Success will not come from directly competing with commercial publishers but by amplifying the unique value that society publishers bring to their communities.

Take the Next Step

Are you ready to revolutionize your publishing process? Discover how Integra can transform your workflows, enhance the quality of your publications, and drive sustainable growth. Contact us today to learn more about our human-led, AI-powered solutions tailored to meet your unique needs.

About Integra

At Integra, we are committed to transforming the future of knowledge by integrating advanced technology with human expertise. We drive human progress by reimagining the creation, validation, and sharing of knowledge through innovative and sustainable publishing solutions that not only address current needs but also benefit future generations. Our dedication to diversity, inclusivity, and environmental stewardship ensures a lasting impact for our partners and communities, fostering an environment where every voice is heard and valued.

We celebrate the contributions of editorial professionals, recognizing their invaluable service to the scholarly community. Our advanced tools empower them to continue playing a crucial role in advancing human knowledge through research. As a trusted partner, we offer human-led, technology-assisted solutions specifically designed for editorial, research integrity, and peer review management.

About the Author

Ashutosh Ghildiyal is the Vice President of Growth and Strategy at Integra, a leading global provider of publishing services and technology. With over 18 years of experience in scholarly publishing, he is dedicated to driving sustainable growth and shaping the future of the industry through innovative AI-driven solutions. As VP of Growth, Ashutosh spearheads new initiatives and leads marketing and branding efforts, while championing innovation in academic publishing through collaborative industry partnerships. A recognized thought leader in scholarly communication, he actively engages with industry professionals and innovators to advance transformative solutions in academic publishing.

Manuscript Vetting for Research Integrity: A Comprehensive Checklist for Journal Editors

Posted on by Prakash Nagarajan

Among the many guiding principles for publishing academically is the one standing out above them all: integrity of research. Without it, the whole construct of scholarly work can collapse. Whether you are an editor, publisher, or reviewer, it is of utmost importance to secure the veracity of research. The question remains, though: how can one assure that a manuscript reads, at minimum on the ethical scale, before letting it out into the world? That is what we will discuss here.

We will take you through, step-by-step, the process to identify research integrity issues at the manuscript level. We share practical tips, a useful checklist, and explain why this work is so important in the world of academic publishing on the way.

What Is Research Integrity—and Why Does It Matter?

Essentially, research integrity ensures that work published is done ethically and at a certain quality standard. This is more than merely avoiding fraud or plagiarism, though those are crucial; research should be conducted and reported honestly and transparently. As stated above, trust in the practice of academic publishing must be preserved in order that knowledge may advance.

One of the best ways of holding up the integrity of research is the halting of potential issues at the manuscript stage—before publication. Editors and reviewers can come across problems if they take a careful, proactive approach-early corrections are easier to make, and post-publication concerns, including retractions, are avoided.

Why Editors Are Important to Maintain Research Integrity

The editors of a journal are its gatekeepers. They have to make sure that the manuscripts submitted meet the standards of their journal and that the work is also according to ethical standards. This is no small feat, especially in the volume of submissions received these days. However, a procedure can make the task much more feasible.

This makes for detection of warning signs of research integrity issues. Whether it is an odd citation pattern, ethical approvals that do not clearly show any, or questionable image data, awareness of such red flags makes all the difference. Below is a checklist that could be used by editors and reviewers effectively to evaluate manuscripts.

The Ultimate Checklist for Spotting Research Integrity Issues at Manuscript Level

So, where do you start to ensure that a manuscript has been substantiated on standards of research integrity? Here is a comprehensive checklist that will lead you through the process:

  1. Start with a Technical Review: Understand and comply with the needs on technical aspects before delving deeper into more ethical and content-based issues by ensuring the manuscript meets the technical requirements related to language quality, format, and completeness of the document.
  2. Scope Alignment: Verify that the manuscript falls within the journal’s aims and scope. Submission of a paper to the wrong venue usually results in unnecessary delays and hassle.
  3. Look Out for Citation Manipulation: Citation manipulation is associated with authors who include unnecessary references to inflate citation counts or to favor specific journals/authors. Look out for unusual patterns of citations, irrelevant references, and citation stacking.
  4. Check for Ethics Needs: Ethical restrictions are strictly inadmissible in academic publishing, particularly when the research involves human or animal subjects. Check with the author if they have the due approvals and if consent procedures were followed.
  5. Follow Reporting Instructions: Reporting requirements standardized to transparency, clarity, and reproducibility. Look for data sharing statements and extensive statistical methods.
  6. Detection of AI-generated text: Considering the upsurge in the creation of AI writing tool, beware of overly complex, unnatural, and repetitive text that may call for attention to machine-generated content.
  7. Systematic Plagiarism Checking: Still one of the major concerns is plagiarism. Detection tools and manual checking will unearth direct copying, self-plagiarism, and mosaic plagiarism.
  8. Check Authorship Contributions: Attribution of credits is necessary. Clear indication of each author’s role and justification for any changes in the list of authors is important.
  9. Declaration Statements: Verification of whether the author and funding sources and affiliations that may create an influence in the study.
  10. Detection of Image Manipulation: Data represented by images must be truthful and accurate. Look for problems including duplication, overlays, changes, inappropriate cropping.

The Way Forward: Arming Editors with Tools and Checklists

Thus, editors and publishers may identify research integrity issues proactively before such issues arise at the manuscript level by following the checklist above. The process is overwhelming, but it indeed makes the task much more manageable with a structured approach and the right tools. The research integrity is shared responsibility – it benefits the scholarly community in general.

Conclusion: Safeguarding the Future of Academic Publishing

Research integrity has never been as important in the world of academic publishing as it is today. It can flag problems early, whether it is scope misalignment, plagiarism, or ethical concerns – allowing editors to ensure that the research they publish is both trustworthy and valuable for the academic community at large. The processes and tools that guide this work must adapt too as the publishing landscape continues to change.

Editors are the custodians of excellence in scholarship. Through a rigorous vetting process, they can continue to honour the principles on which human knowledge is advanced. This is not just a responsibility – it is an investment that shapes the future for scholarly publishing.

About the author:

Abdul Hakkim is the Senior Manager, Peer Review Services at Integra, a leader in scholarly publishing services. With extensive experience in setting up teams and ensuring the highest standards of quality, Hakkim excels at meeting publisher requirements and driving operational excellence. His expertise spans across supporting research integrity, enhancing manuscript screening, and optimizing peer review processes. Hakkim is dedicated to improving efficiency and fostering innovation in the publishing industry, shaping its future through leadership and strategic growth.

Use of AI in Scholarly Publishing: Striking the Balance Between Innovation and Integrity

Posted on by Prakash Nagarajan

AI is taking an increasingly prominent role in scholarly publishing, offering the promise of streamlining editorial processes, improving efficiency, and reducing human error. However, as we embrace AI’s potential, the critical question remains: Can we use AI without compromising the core values of research integrity? Are we prepared to trust AI’s judgments over human expertise? Let’s take a closer look at how AI can be ethically applied in scholarly publishing—enhancing rather than overshadowing human contributions.

1. Pre-Editing: Assisting, Not Replacing Authorial Voice

AI-driven language editing tools can be invaluable, particularly for authors whose first language is not English. These tools can help refine grammar and clarity, ensuring that the author’s ideas are conveyed effectively. However, there is a risk of allowing AI to replace the authentic voice of the author rather than simply enhancing it. AI should be seen as a tool for improvement, not a substitute for the author’s unique perspective. The rise of AI-generated articles raises ethical concerns, blurring the line between enhancement and authorship. With the increasing threat of “papermills”—which sell fake authorship and fabricated research—AI could be exploited to produce work that lacks originality. The challenge is to maintain the human essence of scholarly writing while leveraging AI for efficiency.

2. Technical Assessment: Complementing Human Review, Not Replacing It

AI can significantly aid the technical assessment of manuscripts by quickly identifying missing metadata, formatting issues, or incomplete sections. This can reduce delays in the editorial process and ensure a smoother transition to peer review. However, while AI can streamline these preliminary checks, it cannot replace human review entirely. Human editors must still ensure that editorial standards are met and that no critical nuances are overlooked. AI should assist, not replace, the essential role of human oversight in maintaining quality and consistency.

3. Editorial Checks: Supporting Plagiarism and Image Manipulation Detection

AI tools that detect plagiarism, self-citations, or image manipulation are becoming a cornerstone of editorial checks. These tools are crucial for maintaining the integrity of research, but they raise an important question: Can we rely on AI alone for these sensitive checks, or should human expertise still play a central role? AI can alert editors to potential ethical violations, but human judgment is essential to interpret context, intent, and the subtleties of a case. Experienced editors should be the ones to make final decisions, ensuring fairness and accuracy in handling these red flags.

4. Reviewer Selection: Enhancing Diversity While Maintaining Transparency

AI can help identify qualified and diverse reviewers by analyzing manuscripts and generating relevant keywords. This approach broadens the pool of potential reviewers and can reduce biases that are common in traditional reviewer selection methods. While this is a step forward, it’s important that AI is not relied upon to make reviewer selections autonomously. Human editors must retain the final say to ensure transparency and prevent over-reliance on automated decisions. The goal should be to use AI to complement human judgment, not replace it.

5. Research Evaluation: AI as a Supplement, Not a Substitute

AI can assist in the peer review process by providing preliminary evaluations or flagging areas that require closer attention. While this can streamline the process, AI can never fully replace the nuanced understanding and expertise that human reviewers provide. The role of AI should be to support, not supplant, the critical analysis that human reviewers contribute. Similarly, using AI to generate responses to reviewer comments may seem tempting, but this risks losing the depth and insight that only human experts can provide. Human judgment should always remain at the core of manuscript evaluation.

6. User Identification: Ensuring Integrity and Transparency

User identification is a critical aspect of maintaining research integrity. AI can play a vital role in detecting duplicate accounts, spoofed emails, and undisclosed conflicts of interest between authors and reviewers. However, when using AI for identity verification, we must ensure that fairness, privacy, and transparency are upheld. It’s essential that AI is used to support—rather than replace—traditional identity checks, ensuring a robust and transparent verification process.

7. AI for Data Integrity: Verifying, Not Replacing Human Expertise

AI shows great potential in verifying the integrity of data within research articles, especially when working with large datasets. By identifying outliers, inconsistencies, or errors in data visualization, AI can assist editors in maintaining accuracy. However, AI should never be the sole arbiter of data accuracy. While it can act as a valuable safety net, human experts must retain oversight to interpret the data’s context and ensure its validity. AI’s role here is to complement human expertise, not replace it.

8. Automating Metadata and Reference Management: Time-Saving, But with Caution

Metadata and reference management are crucial for indexing and discovery, but they are time-consuming tasks. AI can automate much of this work, making it easier for authors and editors to format references and ensure proper indexing. However, relying on AI to manage metadata and references carries the risk of errors. A poorly formatted reference or inaccurate metadata can impact an article’s accessibility. Therefore, while AI can save time, editorial oversight remains necessary to ensure accuracy and consistency.

9. Encouraging Transparency in AI Usage

Transparency in how AI is used in scholarly publishing is essential for maintaining trust. Journals should be open about the role AI plays in manuscript evaluation, ensuring that stakeholders understand its limitations and contributions. Clear guidelines on AI usage should be established, so that authors, editors, and reviewers are aware of the tools in use and how they affect the publishing process. This openness will help manage expectations and ensure that AI is used ethically and responsibly.

Final Thoughts

AI has the potential to significantly enhance research integrity in scholarly publishing, but only if it is used thoughtfully and ethically. The key lies in how we apply AI: as a tool to support and complement human expertise, not as a replacement for it. By establishing clear guidelines, maintaining transparency, and ensuring human oversight, we can use AI as a force for good—one that supports the growth and development of knowledge while upholding the ethical standards that define scholarly publishing.

Call to Action

The scholarly publishing community must work together to establish ethical frameworks and guidelines for AI usage. Let’s ensure that AI enhances, rather than undermines, the integrity of research. By being transparent about how AI is applied and retaining human oversight, we can foster an environment where innovation and integrity coexist, ultimately benefiting the advancement of knowledge.

About the author:

Abdul Hakkim is the Senior Manager, Peer Review Services at Integra, a leader in scholarly publishing services. With extensive experience in setting up teams and ensuring the highest standards of quality, Hakkim excels at meeting publisher requirements and driving operational excellence. His expertise spans across supporting research integrity, enhancing manuscript screening, and optimizing peer review processes. Hakkim is dedicated to improving efficiency and fostering innovation in the publishing industry, shaping its future through leadership and strategic growth.