Decoding the Chaos: How Neurology Journals Navigate Production Nightmares
"A behind-the-scenes look at the challenges faced by the Annals of Neurology and the strategies they used to overcome production disruptions."
In the fast-paced world of medical research, the seamless publication of journals is often taken for granted. But behind the scenes, a complex web of processes ensures that critical findings reach the hands of clinicians and scientists. The Annals of Neurology, a leading publication in the field, faced a series of unprecedented challenges in 2018, threatening to disrupt the flow of essential knowledge.
This article delves into the trials and tribulations experienced by the Annals of Neurology, offering a rare glimpse into the strategies employed to overcome production setbacks and maintain its commitment to delivering timely, high-quality research. From navigating the bankruptcy of a key production company to rectifying inaccurate page estimates, the journal's journey highlights the resilience and dedication required to keep the wheels of scientific progress turning.
For neurologists, neuroscientists, and anyone involved in academic publishing, this story provides valuable insights into the complexities of journal production and the measures taken to ensure the continued dissemination of vital medical information.
Navigating the Perfect Storm: Bankruptcy, Estimation Errors, and Staffing Shifts
The year 2018 began with a jolt as Cenveo, the production company responsible for the finished version of the Annals of Neurology, declared bankruptcy. This sudden disruption forced the journal's publisher, John Wiley and Sons, to scramble for a replacement, ultimately landing on SPi Global. The transition, however, was far from seamless. Production slowed, impacting the publication of issues from April through June as SPi Global worked tirelessly to catch up.
- The Impact of Inaccurate Estimates: To maintain the perceived 168-page target, the editors unknowingly included 25% more manuscripts than necessary, leading to issues averaging over 200 pages in late 2017 and early 2018.
- The Human Element: While it might seem surprising that the editors didn't immediately notice the discrepancy, manuscripts vary considerably in length, and their focus was primarily on content quality and production errors, not page counting.
- Discovery: Kathleen Gaffney, an eagle-eyed ANA publication consultant, brought the issue to light, confirming the editors' suspicions and prompting a swift response.
A Return to Normalcy: Lessons Learned and a Path Forward
Despite the confluence of challenges, the Annals of Neurology team persevered. By implementing strategies to streamline production and carefully manage manuscript flow, they gradually worked their way back to their preferred schedule. By early 2019, the journal was on track to deliver issues on time and with a full complement of pages.
The experiences of 2018 underscored the importance of clear communication, meticulous attention to detail, and the collaborative spirit within the Annals of Neurology team. The unwavering support of readers, the American Neurological Association, publisher Cathy Krendel, and production editors at Cenveo and SPi Global was instrumental in navigating the crisis.
The Annals of Neurology serves as a reminder of the dedication and hard work required to maintain the integrity and timely delivery of scientific knowledge, even in the face of unforeseen obstacles. The journal's commitment to its authors and readers ensured that vital research continued to reach the global neuroscience community, advancing the understanding and treatment of neurological disorders.