Editors' Responsibilities

Editorial Decision-Making

The editor is responsible for making independent and informed decisions about which articles submitted to the journal should be published. This decision is guided by the manuscript’s validity, relevance, and contribution to the field, in alignment with the journal’s policies and the expectations of the editorial board. The editor may consult with other editors or reviewers, as needed, to ensure a comprehensive evaluation. All decisions are made with consideration of legal and ethical standards, including issues related to libel, copyright infringement, and plagiarism.

Peer Review Management

Editors must oversee a fair, unbiased, and efficient peer review process. Each research article is typically reviewed by at least two qualified and independent reviewers. The editor is responsible for selecting reviewers with the appropriate expertise and ensuring that the review process is conducted impartially. Any potential conflicts of interest disclosed by reviewers must be evaluated to prevent bias in the review process.

Fairness and Inclusivity

Manuscripts should be assessed based on their intellectual content without discrimination based on race, gender, sexual orientation, religious beliefs, ethnicity, or political views. When appointing editorial board members, the editor should consider a diverse and inclusive representation. Editorial policies should foster transparency and honest reporting, and editors must ensure that all parties involved understand their roles and responsibilities.

Journal Metrics Integrity

Editors must not manipulate journal metrics for personal or institutional gain. This includes avoiding the requirement for authors to cite specific articles to artificially inflate citation counts or journal rankings. Reviews should focus on scholarly merit rather than any metrics-related motivations.

Confidentiality

All materials and communications related to manuscripts must be handled confidentially. Editors should not share manuscript content or review communications without appropriate authorization. Unpublished materials from a manuscript must not be used for the editor's own research. Any information obtained through the peer review process should be kept confidential and not used for personal gain.

AI and Technology Usage

Editors should handle manuscripts and related communications with strict confidentiality and avoid using generative AI or AI-assisted tools for manuscript evaluation or decision-making. Such tools are not suited for critical thinking or original assessment required in the peer review process. The editor is accountable for ensuring the integrity of the editorial process and the accuracy of final decisions.

Competing Interests

Editors must declare any potential conflicts of interest in writing before taking up their role and update these declarations as new conflicts arise. They must recuse themselves from decision-making regarding manuscripts that involve personal or financial interests, ensuring that such submissions undergo standard review procedures.

Integrity of the Published Record

Editors have a responsibility to uphold the integrity of the published record. They must address reported or suspected misconduct, whether related to research, publication, or peer review, in collaboration with the publisher. This includes investigating allegations, contacting relevant parties, and taking necessary actions such as publishing corrections, retractions, or expressions of concern when warranted.

By adhering to these duties, the editor plays a crucial role in maintaining the quality, integrity, and ethical standards of Design Dialogue Journal.