Open Access and Scholarly Communication

Looking at journal directories can help identify open access journals within your subject area. Search for known journal titles or use journal selection tools to discover new and relevant journal titles. 
If you are still unsure of where to publish, you can use databases like Web of Science to see which publications return relevant articles. Then, you can narrow your search to open access articles/publications and go from there.

	Review the journal’s website looking for:​ A clearly stated aims and scope​ An editorial board with recognized experts ​ Clear information about the peer review process​ Transparent information about any publication fees charged​ Current contact info
	Review several issues of the journal​ Check for writing and research quality, relevancy to discipline, and adequate copy editing​
	Check that any impact metrics listed by the journal are recognized and reputable​ E.g., Journal Impact Factor, H-Index, Eigenfactor
	Beware of unsolicited emails calling for submissions​ Treat emails from untrusted sources as spam ​

This is a a derivative of “How to Assess a Journal” by the Canadian Association of Research Libraries is licensed under CC BY 4.0. ​Icons from Icons8. 

If you are trying to decide between a few journal options, Web of Science and Scimago Journal Reports can help you assess each journal's impact and reach.