What to do about the other generation?

Volume 15, Number 6 • June 1998

What to do about the other generation? — Revamping scholarly journals will be a subtle and complex process
by Robin Peek

FOCUS ON PUBLISHING column examines the forces that will shape the evolution of scholarly publishing over the next decade. Says most predictions on the subject fail to account for the preferences of those who will assume positions of influence from those currently in control of the process. Notes the younger generation is almost certain to infuse most disciplines with electronic publishing, but adds the process will differ by discipline, and by the readiness of most academic faculty to accept the change. Suggests the publishers likely to suffer the most determined assaults are those whose journals are currently marketed only to institutions, and typically are priced in the thousands of dollars. Concludes the process is now in an experimental period that may last a decade, since "trust in new ways of doing things will take time to establish."