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Session 3: Why are we doing it this way? Auditing journal best practices

Friday, 2 June 2023 – 10.55am-11.35am (Turkish time)

In this session we explored ways editorial offices are combating a growing list of responsibilities despite a finite amount of time and resources. Implementing process efficiencies at the editorial office level can help journals do more while maintaining quality. A key first step is auditing the current process and specifically asking the question: why is something being done a certain way? When we step back and examine our editorial office processes and procedures, it provides an opportunity to reset and align journal policies with current industry standards and best practices. This session reviewed some of the tools and resources available, and the speakers shared their own experiences with small changes that have made a big difference.

Moderator

Meghan McDevitt

Senior Partner/Consultant, A&M Editorial SolutionsUnited States

Meghan McDevitt is an experienced editorial office professional, specializing in the efficient management of peer-reviewed publications. Meghan and her business partner, David Allen, launched A&M Editorial Solutions in 2025 to provide consulting services on journal workflow optimization and peer review technology. Meghan has experience leading editorial teams for publisher-owned proprietary journals and society-owned journals, managing Editor-in-Chief and platform transitions, launching new publications, and ensuring industry best practices. She is a Past President of the International Society for Managing and Technical Editors (ISMTE).

Juanita Goossens-Roach

Peer Review Manager, Cambridge University Press & AssessmentUnited Kingdom

Juanita Goossens Roach is a Peer Review Manager at Cambridge University Press & Assessment, managing and coordinating global operations across 110+ journals. She specialises in peer review systems, workflow optimisation, service provision, and editorial best practice. Bringing over 22 years of experience in editorial operations, with a focus on peer review systems, editorial workflows, service provision, user experience, and continuous improvement at scale.

Stephanie Kinnan

MLA, Senior Managing Editor, Publications, American Society for Gastrointestinal EndoscopyUnited States