International Journal of Design – Architecture and Design Journal Guide for Researchers

Why Researchers Choose International Journal of Design for High-Impact Publications

The International Journal of Design stands as a premier open-access venue for scholars exploring the intersections of design theory, practice, and innovation. Established in 2008 by the National Taiwan University of Science and Technology, this journal has evolved into a vital resource for researchers worldwide, fostering interdisciplinary dialogue in architecture and design. Its commitment to disseminating high-quality, peer-reviewed articles without publication barriers makes it an attractive choice for academics aiming to amplify their contributions in a competitive field.

With a focus on original research that bridges creative processes and practical applications, the International Journal of Design publishes works that advance understanding in areas like industrial design, visual communication, and sustainable architecture. The journal's rigorous double-blind peer review ensures scholarly integrity, while its open-access model—free for both authors and readers—promotes equitable access to knowledge. Indexed in prestigious databases such as Scopus and DOAJ, it garners citations that enhance researchers' profiles and career trajectories.

Scholars value the International Journal of Design for its emphasis on cultural and contextual dimensions of design, particularly from Asian perspectives, yet with a global editorial board ensuring diverse viewpoints. Submitting here means joining a community dedicated to impactful scholarship that influences policy, education, and industry. For those navigating academic careers, publishing in this journal can open doors to collaborations and funding opportunities. Explore academic jobs in design fields or check the academic calendar for submission deadlines. To elevate your research profile, consider how this journal aligns with your goals—visit the official site to review guidelines and prepare your manuscript today.

Overview & History

The International Journal of Design was launched in 2008 to address the growing need for a dedicated platform in design scholarship. Published quarterly by the National Taiwan University of Science and Technology, it emerged from the recognition that design disciplines required more nuanced outlets beyond traditional engineering or arts journals. Over the years, it has published over 200 issues, featuring contributions from more than 1,000 authors across 50 countries.

Its history reflects the evolution of design as a field, starting with foundational articles on user-centered design and expanding to contemporary topics like digital fabrication and eco-design. The journal's open-access policy from inception has democratized access, aligning with global movements for open scholarship. Today, it remains a cornerstone for Taiwanese and international design research, with a stable editorial team guiding its direction.

Scope and Disciplines Covered

The International Journal of Design encompasses a broad yet focused scope, emphasizing theoretical and empirical studies in design processes, methodologies, and outcomes. It welcomes submissions that integrate design with technology, culture, and society, particularly in non-Western contexts.

DisciplineDescription
Industrial DesignFocuses on product development, ergonomics, and innovation in manufacturing.
Visual Communication DesignExplores graphic design, branding, and digital media interfaces.
Architectural DesignCovers sustainable architecture, urban planning, and built environment studies.
Interaction DesignAddresses user experience, human-computer interaction, and service design.
Design Theory and EducationExamines pedagogical approaches and philosophical underpinnings of design practice.

This multidisciplinary approach ensures the journal appeals to a wide audience, from practitioners to theorists.

Key Journal Metrics

MetricValueSource
CiteScore2.1 (2022)Scopus
SJR0.345Scopus
h-Index28Scopus
Acceptance RateNot publicly disclosedN/A
Average Review Time4-6 monthsJournal Site

These metrics highlight the journal's solid standing in design scholarship, with steady growth in citations.

Indexing and Abstracting

The International Journal of Design is indexed in key databases, ensuring discoverability. Scopus provides comprehensive coverage since 2008, while DOAJ confirms its open-access compliance. Additional indexing includes Google Scholar, EBSCO, and the Directory of Open Access Journals. Researchers can access abstracts and full texts via these platforms, boosting visibility. For career advancement, consider linking your publications to profiles on Rate My Professor or exploring PhD programs in design.

Publication Model and Fees

As a diamond open-access journal, the International Journal of Design charges no article processing fees (APCs) for authors or readers. This model, supported by the publisher, removes financial barriers and promotes inclusivity. Articles are published under a Creative Commons Attribution license, allowing broad reuse. Quarterly issues are available immediately upon acceptance, with no embargoes.

Submission Process and Guidelines

Submissions are handled through the journal's online system at the official homepage. Authors must prepare manuscripts in English, following APA style, with a maximum of 8,000 words. The process involves initial screening, double-blind review by 2-3 experts, and revisions. Key guidelines emphasize originality, ethical standards, and relevance to design fields. For tips, review the research grants section or tenure-track positions in academia.

Editorial Board Highlights

The editorial board comprises 20+ international experts, led by Editor-in-Chief Chung-Hay Otto Lin from National Taiwan University of Science and Technology. Members hail from institutions like MIT, Tsinghua University, and the Royal College of Art, bringing diverse expertise in design innovation and cultural studies. Their oversight ensures high standards and global relevance.

Why Publish in International Journal of Design?

Publishing here offers unparalleled benefits: global reach without costs, interdisciplinary exposure, and alignment with open science. It enhances CVs for postdoc positions and faculty roles. The journal's Asian base provides unique insights, yet its international scope attracts worldwide citations. For emerging scholars, it's a gateway to networking—pair it with faculty directories for collaborations.

Comparison with Similar Journals

JournalPublisherFocusOpen AccessCiteScore
Design StudiesElsevierDesign theoryHybrid5.2
Journal of Design ResearchInderscienceApplied designSubscription0.8
International Journal of DesignNTUSTInterdisciplinary designDiamond OA2.1
Design IssuesMIT PressHistorical designHybrid1.5

This comparison underscores the International Journal of Design's accessibility and balanced metrics.

Researcher Tips for Successful Submission

To succeed, tailor your abstract to highlight design implications, use visuals effectively, and cite recent journal articles. Engage with reviewer feedback promptly. Track trends via higher ed jobs in design. Finally, align submissions with calls for papers on the academic calendar.

Frequently Asked Questions about International Journal of Design

📈What is the current impact factor of International Journal of Design?

The International Journal of Design does not have a Clarivate Impact Factor as it is not indexed in Web of Science JCR. However, its Scopus CiteScore is 2.1 (2022), indicating solid influence in design fields. For career insights, check Rate My Professor profiles of published authors.

📊What is the acceptance rate for submissions?

The acceptance rate is not publicly disclosed by the journal. Based on peer review rigor, it is estimated around 30-40% for quality submissions. Aspiring authors can prepare by reviewing PhD programs in design for foundational skills.

💰What is the APC or publication policy?

As a diamond open-access journal, there are no article processing charges (APCs). Publication is free for authors, supported by the publisher. This policy enhances accessibility—explore funding via research grants for related projects.

⏱️How long does the review process take?

The average time from submission to decision is 4-6 months, including double-blind peer review. Revisions may add time. Stay organized with the academic calendar for deadlines in design academia.

🔗Where is the submission portal located?

Submissions are managed via the Open Journal Systems (OJS) on the official journal homepage. Register and upload manuscripts there. For guidance, see resources on tenure-track positions that value such publications.

🔍Which databases index International Journal of Design?

It is indexed in Scopus, DOAJ, Google Scholar, and EBSCO. This ensures wide discoverability. Enhance your profile by connecting to faculty directories in architecture and design.

👨‍💼Who is the Editor-in-Chief?

The Editor-in-Chief is Chung-Hay Otto Lin, Professor at National Taiwan University of Science and Technology, specializing in industrial design. Learn more about leadership in higher ed jobs for editorial roles.

🚀What career value does publishing here provide?

Publication boosts academic CVs, aiding promotions and postdoc positions. Its Scopus indexing supports grant applications and international collaborations in design research.

⚖️How does it compare to peer journals?

Compared to Design Studies (CiteScore 5.2, hybrid OA), it offers free diamond OA with a focus on Asian design contexts. Review peers via academic jobs in similar fields for benchmarking.