Policy
Peer review policy
Business & IT operates a double-blind peer-review process: the identities of authors and reviewers are withheld from one another throughout. All research papers, tutorials and discussion contributions are reviewed; short items such as book reviews and scientific information are assessed editorially.
The process
- Initial editorial check. The editorial office screens each manuscript for fit with the journal's scope, completeness, and adherence to the author guidelines, and runs a similarity (plagiarism) check.
- Reviewer assignment. Manuscripts that pass the initial check are sent to two independent reviewers — professors or recognised experts — from institutions other than the authors'. Reviewers with a conflict of interest are not assigned.
- Assessment. Reviewers evaluate originality, methodological soundness, clarity, relevance to the field, and the appropriateness of the literature cited, using a standardised review form approved by the editorial and scientific boards.
- Decision. A paper is accepted (with or without revision) when supported by the reviewers. If one review is negative, a third reviewer is appointed. The editor communicates the decision and the reviewers' comments to the author in writing.
- Revision and final decision. Revised manuscripts may be returned to the reviewers. The editor takes the final decision.
Timelines
A manuscript is typically sent for review within about 20 days of submission. The review process normally takes up to three months.
Over a full publication cycle, on average around 42 % of submitted papers are accepted for publication and around 58 % are declined.
Confidentiality and conduct
Manuscripts under review are confidential. Reviewers must not use or disclose unpublished material and must declare any conflict of interest. Review records are retained by the editorial office. Editors do not handle manuscripts in which they have a competing interest.