Guidelines and Timelines for Authors and Reviewers

Guidelines for Authors

1. Submission Categories

  • Original Research Papers: Full-length scholarly articles reporting original research or theoretical developments.
  • Review Articles: Comprehensive evaluations of a specific topic.
  • Commentary/Opinion: Short pieces offering expert opinions or analysis on current trends or issues in business.
  • Case Studies: In-depth analysis of a particular business situation or event.

2. Peer Review Methods by Submission Type

  • Original Research Papers: Double-Blind Anonymous Peer Review + Post-Publication Peer Review
  • Review Articles: Single-Blind Peer Review + Open Peer Review
  • Commentary/Opinion: Editorial Review + Post-Publication Peer Review
  • Case Studies: Single-Blind Peer Review + Post-Publication Peer Review

3. Submission Guidelines

  • Formatting: All submissions must adhere to the PIBJ formatting guidelines, available [here].
  • Anonymization: For anonymous peer review, ensure all identifying information is removed from the manuscript.
  • Declaration of Conflicts: Authors are required to disclose any conflicts of interest during submission.
  • License: All papers are published under a CC0 license, allowing authors to retain copyright without restrictions.

Guidelines for Reviewers

1. Selection of Reviewers

  • Reviewers are selected based on their expertise in the manuscript’s subject matter.
  • The journal’s editorial board may invite reviewers or authors may suggest potential reviewers.

2. Review Criteria

  • Originality: Is the research novel and does it contribute to the existing body of knowledge?
  • Methodology: Are the methods and approaches sound and properly applied?
  • Relevance: Does the manuscript fit the scope and audience of PIBJ?
  • Clarity: Is the writing clear, concise, and well-structured?
  • Ethical Considerations: Are there any ethical issues in the research or data collection?

3. Reviewer Confidentiality

  • For Anonymous Peer Review (both single-blind and double-blind), reviewers must not reveal their identities.
  • For Open Peer Review, reviewers’ identities are disclosed, and their feedback will be published alongside the article.

4. Feedback Guidelines

  • Provide constructive, detailed feedback.
  • Avoid personal criticisms and focus on the content of the paper.
  • Clearly state whether the paper should be accepted, revised, or rejected.

Training and Resources for Editors and Reviewers

1. Reviewer Training

  • PIBJ will offer a Reviewer Training Guide, covering:

    • How to conduct ethical and unbiased reviews.
    • Understanding the different peer review methods used by PIBJ.
    • Proper communication with authors and editors.
    • How to evaluate manuscripts based on journal criteria.

  • A Webinar will be offered periodically to provide updates on reviewing best practices.

2. Editorial Team Training

  • Editorial Training Sessions will be held to ensure all editors understand:
    • The appropriate use of peer review methods for each submission type.
    • Managing reviewer communication and ensuring timely review cycles.
    • Ensuring ethical review practices and adherence to journal policies.

Timelines and Workflows for Review Methods

1. Editorial Review Workflow

  • Initial Screening: Within 2 business days of submission.
  • Editorial Review Decision: Within 1 week of initial screening.
  • Decision Sent to Authors: Accept, reject, or revise, with feedback.

2. Anonymous Peer Review (Single-Blind & Double-Blind)

  • Reviewer Assignment: Within 1 week of initial editorial review.
  • Reviewer Evaluation Period: 2-4 weeks for initial feedback.
  • Revisions by Authors: Authors have 2-4 weeks to revise their manuscript based on reviewer comments.
  • Final Decision: After revisions, the paper is reviewed again for final approval, typically within 1-2 weeks.

3. Post-Publication Peer Review

  • Publication: Immediately after editorial review or anonymous peer review (depending on submission type).
  • Post-Publication Feedback Window: Open indefinitely, with major reviews compiled and periodically published as “Review Updates.”

4. Open Peer Review Workflow

  • Reviewer Invitation: Assigned within 1 week after initial submission screening.
  • Reviewer Evaluation Period: 2-3 weeks, with public feedback provided.
  • Author Response: Authors may respond to open reviews within 2 weeks.
  • Final Review: After author responses, final revisions may be made and published.

By providing clear guidelines, comprehensive reviewer and editorial training, and structured timelines, Professionals in Business Journal (PIBJ) ensures consistency, quality, and integrity in the peer review process. This combination of methods allows the journal to accommodate a wide range of scholarly and professional contributions while maintaining high standards.