Discussing the Emerging Discourse Incubator

How is an EDI different from a special issue or a special topic forum?
While the goals of both are similar, there are two primary differences. First, the timeframe for the EDI will extend across an entire year, thus, it is like an annual theme, leading to deeper discourse, as later papers build on and respond to both invited papers and earlier submitted articles. Second, in order to ensure consistency and speed of the review process, the manuscripts submitted to the EDI will be processed by JSCM’s editors, following the regular review process, rather than by guest editors.

Does this mean that I can’t submit a paper that is not related to the EDI?
Not at all; we encourage the submission of papers on all topics that are relevant to the journal. The papers that are part of the EDI will be earmarked as such, but integrated into issues that publish papers on all topics.

Will EDI submissions receive a higher priority?
No, all submissions will be treated and processed in the same way, and the journal will provide its usual level of service to all submissions, while the EDI call is ongoing.

How do I designate my submission as an EDI submission?
Please indicate this in your cover letter.

Are there reviewers who are knowledgeable about topics related to the EDI?
As with all submissions, the editors will ensure that EDI submissions are assigned to reviewers and AEs who are knowledgeable about their topic.

Is the discourse primarily online, or will EDI papers also be published in JSCM?
EDI papers, as well as regular papers, will be published online upon acceptance, followed by publication in the journal. Initial on-line publishing means that earlier submissions can be made available to other researchers sooner.

Is there a limit to the number of papers that can be included in the EDI?
Like all calls for papers, there is a limit to the amount of space to be dedicated to the EDI. Once that space has been filled, subsequent submissions will be treated as regular submissions.

Why does the EDI begin with invited papers?
Initiating the discourse with invited papers from both eminent scholars and emerging researchers provides a foundation for the emerging discourse and potentially frames later submissions.

Can I submit a paper related to the EDI after the end of 2018?
Of course. The goal of the EDI is to stimulate research on a previously under-researched topic. Success will ultimately be indicated by a new, continuing stream of research related to supply chains where the focal actor’s primary goal is not profit. While papers published after Volume 54 will not be indicated as part of the EDI, they are welcomed and encouraged.

What should I do if I have additional questions?
Please direct queries to any of JSCMs co-editors Mark Pagell (mark.pagell@ucd.ie), Brian Fugate (bfugate@walton.uark.edu), or Barbara Flynn (bbflynn@iu.edu).