Why Researchers Choose OD Practitioner for High-Impact Publications
OD Practitioner serves as a vital resource for professionals and scholars in organizational development, delivering actionable insights and case studies that bridge theory and practice. Established in 1969 by the Organization Development Network, this quarterly journal has evolved into a cornerstone publication for those exploring human systems, change management, and leadership dynamics. Its focus on real-world applications distinguishes it in a field often dominated by abstract theory, making it an attractive venue for researchers seeking to influence practitioners directly.
The journal's commitment to advancing OD practices attracts contributions from global experts, fostering a community dedicated to ethical and innovative organizational interventions. Articles typically range from empirical studies to reflective essays, emphasizing collaborative and systemic approaches. For researchers, publishing here offers visibility within a niche yet influential network, enhancing career trajectories in consulting, academia, and corporate roles.
With a print ISSN of 0362-3438 and no publicly disclosed electronic ISSN, OD Practitioner maintains a traditional yet accessible format. Its United States-based publisher ensures rigorous peer review, aligning with standards that value practical relevance over sheer volume. Researchers appreciate the journal's role in disseminating knowledge that drives organizational effectiveness, from team dynamics to large-scale transformations.
As organizational challenges grow more complex, OD Practitioner remains essential for staying ahead. To explore related opportunities, check out organizational development job listings.
Overview & History
OD Practitioner emerged in 1969 as the official journal of the Organization Development Network, a nonprofit dedicated to promoting OD principles worldwide. Initially focused on sharing practitioner experiences, it has grown to encompass diverse topics like diversity initiatives, virtual teaming, and sustainable change. Over five decades, it has published seminal works that shaped the field, including explorations of Appreciative Inquiry and action research methodologies. The journal's evolution reflects broader shifts in organizational theory, adapting to digital transformations and global interconnectedness while staying true to its practitioner roots.
Scope and Disciplines Covered
OD Practitioner covers a broad spectrum within organizational development, emphasizing practical tools and theoretical frameworks. Key areas include change management, leadership development, and group dynamics.
| Discipline | Description |
|---|---|
| Organizational Development | Core focus on systemic interventions and process consulting. |
| Human Resource Management | Strategies for talent development and employee engagement. |
| Management Consulting | Case studies on advisory practices and client engagements. |
| Leadership Studies | Insights into adaptive and transformational leadership. |
| Organizational Psychology | Behavioral aspects of workplace culture and motivation. |
Key Journal Metrics
While OD Practitioner prioritizes practitioner impact over traditional metrics, available data highlights its steady influence.
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Publication Frequency | Quarterly |
| Year Established | 1969 |
| Impact Factor | Not publicly disclosed |
| Acceptance Rate | Not publicly disclosed |
| Average Review Time | 3-6 months |
Indexing and Abstracting
OD Practitioner is indexed in select databases relevant to its audience, including EBSCO and ProQuest, facilitating discoverability among practitioners. It is not listed in Clarivate JCR or Scopus, reflecting its specialized focus rather than broad academic metrics. Researchers can access abstracts via the publisher's site or library subscriptions. For comprehensive coverage, explore the official journal homepage.
Publication Model and Fees
As a member-supported publication of the Organization Development Network, OD Practitioner operates on a non-open access model with no article processing charges (APC). Authors typically hold OD Network membership, which covers publication costs. This structure ensures accessibility for affiliated professionals while maintaining quality through network oversight. Digital access is available to members via the publisher's platform.
Submission Process and Guidelines
Submissions are accepted year-round through the OD Network's online portal or email to the editorial team. Manuscripts should be 3,000-6,000 words, formatted in APA style, with an emphasis on practical implications. Peer review involves two to three experts, focusing on relevance and applicability. Guidelines stress originality and ethical considerations, prohibiting simultaneous submissions. For detailed instructions, visit the official submission page. To prepare, review academic journal submission calendars.
Editorial Board Highlights
The editorial board comprises seasoned OD professionals from academia and industry. Editor-in-Chief Dr. Mee-Yan Cheung-Judge brings decades of experience in leadership development. Other members include experts like Dr. David Jamieson in facilitation and Dr. Ann Feyerherm in diversity. Their diverse backgrounds ensure balanced perspectives, guiding the journal toward innovative content.
Why Publish in OD Practitioner?
Publishing in OD Practitioner offers direct impact on practitioners, enhancing an author's reputation in applied fields. It provides networking opportunities within the OD Network and contributes to field advancement. Unlike purely academic outlets, it values narrative-driven articles that inspire action, making it ideal for consultants and educators. Career benefits include citations in professional circles and invitations to network events. For those in higher education, see PhD programs in organizational leadership.
Comparison with Similar Journals
| Journal | Focus | Frequency | APC |
|---|---|---|---|
| OD Practitioner | Practical OD applications | Quarterly | None |
| Journal of Applied Behavioral Science | Behavioral interventions | Quarterly | Hybrid |
| Human Relations | Organizational behavior | Bimonthly | Open access option |
| Consulting Psychology Journal | Consulting practices | Quarterly | None |
Researcher Tips for Successful Submission
To succeed, align your work with current OD trends like agile transformations. Use clear, jargon-free language and include real-world examples. Engage reviewers by addressing practitioner pain points. Proofread rigorously and seek feedback from peers. Track progress via the portal and be responsive to revisions. For broader career advice, visit Rate My Professor for OD faculty or higher ed job opportunities. Additional resources include conference calendars and management PhD programs.