1. Journal Impact and Reputation:
* Impact Factor (IF) and other metrics: While not the sole determinant, a higher IF generally suggests greater visibility and influence within the field. However, be wary of over-reliance on IF, as it has limitations. Consider other metrics like CiteScore or SNIP, which may offer a more nuanced view.
* Journal prestige and reputation: Established journals with a strong history of publishing high-quality systematic reviews carry more weight and are more likely to attract a wider readership. Look at the journal's editorial board – are they experts in your field?
* Journal's focus and scope: Ensure the journal's scope aligns perfectly with your systematic review's topic and methodology. Some journals specialize in specific types of reviews (e.g., meta-analyses, qualitative syntheses).
2. Editorial Process and Quality Control:
* Peer-review process: A rigorous and transparent peer-review process is crucial. Look for information about the journal's review methods on their website. A double-blind review is generally preferred.
* Time to publication: Understand the journal's typical processing time. While speed isn't everything, lengthy delays can be problematic.
* Publication fees (if any): Many journals charge publication fees (Article Processing Charges or APCs). Consider your funding and whether you can afford these fees. Some journals offer waivers or discounts.
* Open access options: If you want your review to be freely accessible, ensure the journal offers open access publishing options and that these align with your funding and institutional policies.
3. Readership and Audience:
* Journal readership and reach: A journal with a large and relevant readership increases the impact and dissemination of your work.
* Target audience: Consider who you want to reach with your review. Some journals cater to a more specialized audience, while others have a broader reach.
4. Specific Requirements for Systematic Reviews:
* Reporting guidelines adherence: The journal should explicitly state its adherence to reporting guidelines for systematic reviews and meta-analyses, such as PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses). They may even require the use of a specific reporting checklist.
* Data sharing policies: Many journals now encourage or require data sharing to enhance transparency and reproducibility. Consider the journal's policy on data availability statements and supplementary materials.
* Methodological rigor: Check if the journal explicitly emphasizes methodological rigor in its published systematic reviews, including aspects like risk of bias assessment and quality appraisal.
In summary, selecting a journal involves a trade-off between impact, quality, and feasibility. Prioritize journals that align with your research goals, offer a rigorous peer-review process, and provide a platform for effectively disseminating your findings to the relevant audience. Always check the journal's author guidelines carefully before submission.