Peer review

- In general the following peer review process is applicable to KovsieJournals. Specific journals may have journal specific peer review processes that must be adhered to.

- Manuscripts are submitted to the Editorial Office or via the online platform. All manuscripts undergo an initial assessment by the Editorial Office to ensure that they comply with the guidelines.

- Manuscripts are then assigned to the Editor-in-Chief to decide whether or not they fall within the remit of the journal. The Editor-in-Chief may also refer to Associate Editors for their assessment. All manuscripts should be written in an easy to read style. The Editor-in-Chief assigns each suitable manuscript to an Associate Editor depending on the discipline in which the manuscript falls.

- Associate Editors can at this stage reject manuscripts that are too specialised or refer manuscripts back to the authors for language editing or re-writing. If a manuscript is deemed suitable for review, the Associate Editor appoints and invites independent Reviewers.

- Reviewers are given 30 days to submit a report. (Note, however, that the stipulated time may be extended if reviewers asked for postponement). At least two reports are required to make a decision. The review process is double blind, that is, both authors’ and reviewers’ identities are concealed.

- Once at least two reports have been received, the Associate Editor makes a decision on the manuscript. If Reviewers’ recommendations diverge, the Associate Editor can arbitrate the recommendation or refer the manuscript to a third Reviewer.

- Authors are given 14 days to revise a manuscript needing minor revisions and 21 days to revise a manuscript needing major revisions. Revised manuscripts are submitted to the Editorial Office or via the online platform.

- Associate Editors then make a decision on minor revisions and refer major revisions to one or more Reviewers (the original Reviewer/s when possible) for their recommendations before making a decision.

- Authors can appeal a decision in writing to the Editor-in-Chief.