Why Researchers Choose Strategic Management Journal for High-Impact Publications
The Strategic Management Journal stands as a cornerstone in the field of strategic management, offering researchers a platform to disseminate groundbreaking work on organizational strategy, competitive dynamics, and business performance. Established in 1980 by John Wiley & Sons, this journal has evolved into one of the most cited publications in management science, attracting submissions from top academics worldwide. Its rigorous peer-review process ensures that only the most innovative and empirically robust studies see publication, making it a coveted venue for advancing knowledge in administration and strategy.
Researchers value the Strategic Management Journal for its broad scope, which encompasses theoretical advancements, empirical analyses, and practical implications for executives. Whether exploring corporate governance, innovation strategies, or international business challenges, the journal fosters interdisciplinary dialogue that bridges academia and industry. With an impact factor consistently ranking it among the elite in business journals, publishing here elevates a scholar's profile, enhances citation metrics, and opens doors to influential networks.
The journal's commitment to high standards is evident in its editorial policies, which prioritize originality, methodological rigor, and relevance to contemporary issues like sustainability and digital transformation. For early-career researchers, a publication in the Strategic Management Journal can be a pivotal achievement, signaling expertise to hiring committees and grant reviewers. Seasoned scholars appreciate its role in shaping discourse on strategic decision-making amid uncertainty.
To explore opportunities in this dynamic field, consider browsing academic jobs in management or reviewing faculty positions that align with your research interests. Submitting to the Strategic Management Journal not only contributes to scholarly progress but also positions you at the forefront of administration manager advancements. For personalized insights, check out Rate My Professor to connect with peers.
Overview & History
The Strategic Management Journal was launched in 1980 to address the growing need for a dedicated outlet focused on strategy at the organizational level. Founded under the auspices of the Strategic Management Society, it quickly gained traction by publishing seminal works that defined the field. Over the decades, it has chronicled the evolution from industrial organization economics to resource-based views and dynamic capabilities.
Key milestones include its adoption of open access options in the 2010s and integration into Wiley's digital platform, enhancing global accessibility. Today, it remains a flagship journal, with issues featuring special topics on emerging themes like AI in strategy and ESG integration.
Scope and Disciplines Covered
The journal covers a wide array of topics in strategic management, emphasizing research that informs theory and practice. Core areas include competitive strategy, corporate entrepreneurship, and alliance management.
| Discipline | Description |
|---|---|
| Strategic Management | Core theories and frameworks for organizational strategy. |
| Business Administration | Leadership, governance, and performance metrics. |
| International Business | Global strategies and cross-cultural management. |
| Innovation and Entrepreneurship | Technology adoption and new venture strategies. |
| Organizational Behavior | Strategic implications of human capital and culture. |
Key Journal Metrics
| Metric | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Impact Factor (2023) | 10.4 | Clarivate Journal Citation Reports |
| 5-Year Impact Factor | 12.1 | Clarivate JCR |
| CiteScore | 18.7 | Scopus |
| h-Index | 312 | Scopus |
| Acceptance Rate | Not publicly disclosed | Publisher data |
These metrics underscore the journal's influence, with thousands of citations annually driving forward strategic management scholarship.
Indexing and Abstracting
The Strategic Management Journal is indexed in leading databases, ensuring wide visibility. It appears in Web of Science, Scopus, and ABI/INFORM, facilitating discoverability for researchers worldwide. Abstracting services like EBSCO and ProQuest further amplify its reach.
Publication Model and Fees
As a hybrid journal, it offers traditional subscription access alongside gold open access. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for open access is approximately $3,800, covering peer review and dissemination. No fees for non-OA submissions, with waivers available for certain regions.
Submission Process and Guidelines
Manuscripts are submitted via the online portal at the journal's site. Guidelines emphasize double-blind review, with a focus on 8,000-12,000 word limits and APA style. Initial screening checks for fit, followed by expert peer review averaging 3-4 months.
For preparation, review PhD programs in business to align with journal standards.
Editorial Board Highlights
The board comprises distinguished scholars from top institutions like Harvard, Wharton, and INSEAD. Editor-in-Chief Jay B. Barney leads with expertise in resource-based theory. Associate editors include experts in empirical methods and international strategy, ensuring diverse perspectives.
Why Publish in Strategic Management Journal?
Publishing here offers prestige, with articles often cited in policy and executive education. It enhances career trajectories, particularly for tenure-track aspirations. Explore tenure-track positions to see how such publications boost applications.
Comparison with Similar Journals
| Journal | Impact Factor | Focus | Publisher |
|---|---|---|---|
| Academy of Management Journal | 10.9 | General management | Academy of Management |
| Journal of Management | 13.5 | Broad management topics | SAGE |
| Administrative Science Quarterly | 11.5 | Organizational theory | SAGE |
| Organization Science | 5.4 | Interdisciplinary org studies | INFORMS |
This comparison highlights the Strategic Management Journal's specialized edge in strategy.
Researcher Tips for Successful Submission
Craft a compelling abstract, ensure robust data analysis, and address reviewer concerns iteratively. Engage with recent issues for topical alignment. For career support, visit academic calendar for deadlines and higher ed jobs for networking.