Will the publication method of the journal affect the visibility of my article?
Yes, journal publication models significantly influence article visibility. Open Access (OA) publication generally enhances discoverability and accessibility compared to subscription-based models.
Key factors include accessibility barriers: subscription journals restrict access to paying individuals/institutions, limiting readership. OA journals permit immediate, free online access globally. Indexing coverage in major databases and search engines also varies. Visibility is further impacted by embargo periods on Green OA self-archiving and the reach of the journal's own platform and marketing. The OA advantage is often most pronounced in disciplines valuing rapid dissemination and in regions with limited institutional subscription budgets.
Consequently, OA publication typically increases the potential readership, facilitating wider dissemination and potentially leading to higher citation rates and societal impact. Authors should prioritize reputable OA journals compliant with funder mandates and consider discipline-specific norms when choosing a publication model to maximize their work's influence.
