Client Background & Challenge
The steady growth in submission numbers was apparent to both PA EDitorial and the publisher. We understood that this increase in volume would continue and had a duty to maintain our timely service for the health of the portfolio. The challenge was to maintain editorial processing speeds while managing an ever-growing volume of submissions.
The Results
Turnaround times for new, revised and accepted submission checks saw a major reduction despite the rise in submission numbers. Our Managing Editors rose to the occasion, improving editorial efficiency across 50 individual titles.
From May 2025 to May 2026, submission volumes increased by 41% across the portfolio.
At the same time, the average turnaround time for new, revised, and accepted papers was reduced by 22%.
How was this achieved?
The Solution We Implemented
Behind these numbers is a dedicated group of peer review specialists who work closely with editors, authors, reviewers and publishers every day to keep the publication process moving efficiently and smoothly. Our team took a strategic approach, resulting in faster manuscript processing, a better author experience, and stronger support for our publishing partners.
How our editorial office teams managed 41% submission growth while improving turnaround times:
- Refined expectations: Contracted turnaround times for manuscript checks were reduced from two days to one across academic journals, establishing sharper performance benchmarks.
- Optimised workflows: Target journals were audited to identify opportunities for automation and process improvements, accelerating manuscript processing while enhancing support for editors, authors, and reviewers.
- Expanded capacity strategically: Additional support was trained and implemented on select high-volume titles to ensure optimal efficiency.
- Used data to drive change: Submission System data was used to identify bottlenecks and further refine workflows.
Growth is only meaningful when processes scale alongside it. We’re proud that our teams have continued to deliver efficient, high-quality support to editors and authors despite significantly higher workloads.
This case study demonstrates how PA EDitorial supports editorial excellence at scale even as submission volumes grow.
Key Outcomes & Takeaways
This case highlights PA EDitorial’s proven ability to deliver tailored, adaptive solutions that develop in response to the changing needs and operational challenges of academic journals. Through close collaboration and a deep understanding of editorial workflows, PA EDitorial has provided and sustained flexible support that has been instrumental in streamlining journal operations.
This contribution has been formally acknowledged by both the journal editors and the publisher, who have noted a marked improvement in the overall efficiency and consistency of journal management.
Over a two-year period, there was a 50% reduction in the time from submission to first decision. As a result, editors have been able to shift their focus back to their core academic responsibilities – reviewing, curating, and advancing high-quality scholarly content – while relying on PA EDitorial to manage operational and administrative complexities with confidence.