Why Researchers Choose Organization Science for High-Impact Publications
Organization Science stands as a cornerstone in the field of management and organization studies, renowned for publishing rigorous, innovative research that shapes scholarly discourse and practical applications. Established in 1990 by the Institute for Operations Research and the Management Sciences (INFORMS), this journal has evolved into a vital platform for interdisciplinary work exploring the complexities of organizations in dynamic environments. Researchers are drawn to Organization Science for its commitment to high-quality, theoretically grounded empirical studies that advance understanding of organizational behavior, strategy, and innovation.
The journal's prestige is underscored by its consistent ranking among the top outlets in management, as evidenced by its 5.4 impact factor from the 2023 Journal Citation Reports. This metric reflects the journal's influence, with articles frequently cited in academia and industry. Organization Science emphasizes diverse methodologies, from quantitative analyses to qualitative insights, fostering a broad appeal for scholars across subfields like organizational theory, entrepreneurship, and technology management. Its rigorous peer-review process ensures that only the most impactful contributions see publication, making it a sought-after venue for career advancement.
Publishing in Organization Science not only amplifies a researcher's visibility but also connects them to a global network of thought leaders. The journal's scope extends to timely topics such as digital transformation, sustainability in organizations, and behavioral dynamics in teams, aligning with contemporary challenges. For emerging scholars, the journal's structured submission guidelines and supportive editorial feedback provide invaluable guidance. As organizations navigate uncertainty, the insights from Organization Science inform policy, strategy, and leadership practices worldwide.
To explore opportunities in management academia, consider browsing management faculty positions or checking the academic calendar for key deadlines.
Overview & History
Organization Science was launched in 1990 under the auspices of INFORMS, filling a critical gap in management literature by focusing on the science of organizations. From its inception, the journal has prioritized empirical research that bridges theory and practice, evolving with the field's shifts toward globalization and technological integration. Key milestones include special issues on emerging topics like knowledge management in the early 2000s and organizational resilience post-2008 financial crisis. Today, it publishes bimonthly, maintaining a selective acceptance rate of approximately 10%, which underscores its elite status.
Scope and Disciplines Covered
Organization Science covers a wide array of topics within management and organization studies, emphasizing theoretical contributions with empirical support. Core areas include organizational behavior, strategy, innovation, and institutional theory.
| Discipline | Description |
|---|---|
| Organizational Theory | Examines structures, processes, and cultures within organizations. |
| Strategy and Innovation | Focuses on competitive dynamics, entrepreneurship, and technological change. |
| Organizational Behavior | Investigates individual and group dynamics, leadership, and decision-making. |
| Operations and Supply Chain | Explores efficiency, networks, and sustainability in operations. |
| Information Systems | Analyzes the role of technology in organizational performance. |
Key Journal Metrics
Organization Science's metrics highlight its influence and selectivity, making it a top choice for ambitious researchers.
| Metric | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Impact Factor (2023) | 5.4 | Clarivate JCR |
| 5-Year Impact Factor | 6.8 | Clarivate JCR |
| h-Index | 245 | Scopus |
| CiteScore | 12.3 | Scopus |
| Acceptance Rate | ~10% | Publisher Data |
Indexing and Abstracting
The journal is widely indexed, ensuring broad dissemination. It appears in Scopus, Web of Science (SSCI), ABI/INFORM, and Google Scholar. Abstracting services include EBSCO and ProQuest, facilitating access for researchers globally. This indexing supports high citation rates and interdisciplinary visibility.
Publication Model and Fees
Organization Science operates on a hybrid model, offering subscription access with open-access options via INFORMS Open Access Publishing. There is no mandatory Article Processing Charge (APC) for standard submissions; however, authors opting for immediate open access pay an APC of $3,200. Page charges are $1,000 for the first 20 pages, promoting concise, high-quality manuscripts.
Submission Process and Guidelines
Submissions are handled through the ScholarOne Manuscripts platform at the journal's official site. Authors must adhere to double-anonymized review, with manuscripts formatted in APA style, up to 40 pages including references. Initial reviews take 3-4 months, emphasizing originality and theoretical contribution. Detailed guidelines are available on the official homepage.
Editorial Board Highlights
The editorial team, led by Editor-in-Chief Daniel A. Levinthal from the University of Pennsylvania, includes distinguished scholars from institutions like Stanford and Harvard. Associate editors specialize in subfields, ensuring expert handling of diverse submissions and maintaining the journal's rigorous standards.
Why Publish in Organization Science?
Publishing here elevates a researcher's profile due to the journal's A* ranking in the ABS list and FT50 designation. It offers rapid dissemination, global readership, and opportunities for special issues on cutting-edge topics. For career growth, see Rate My Professor for insights from peers.
Comparison with Similar Journals
Organization Science compares favorably with peers in management.
| Journal | Impact Factor | Acceptance Rate | Focus |
|---|---|---|---|
| Administrative Science Quarterly | 8.2 | ~8% | Broader organization theory |
| Academy of Management Journal | 7.0 | ~6% | Empirical management research |
| Strategic Management Journal | 7.8 | ~10% | Strategy-specific |
| Journal of Management | 13.5 | ~5% | General management reviews |
Researcher Tips for Successful Submission
To succeed, craft a clear theoretical framework, use robust data, and align with the journal's interdisciplinary ethos. Engage with recent issues for trends. For academic planning, visit the academic calendar and explore tenure-track opportunities. Internal links: example jobs, management jobs.