Volume 64 - 2001 - Fasc.3 - Editorial
News from the Editorial Board
Dear Colleagues and Readers, After the Editorial Board renewal we decided to solicit our reviewers' opinion about Acta Gastroenterologica Belgica and its future. Everyone is aware that the heavy burden of reviewing papers can only be accomplished if the reviewers are devoted to improve the scientific quality and credibility of Acta Gastroenterologica Belgica at a national and international level. This opinion was further supported by the success of the survey : 68 answers were received over 75 questionnaires ! Before commenting the results we would like to ask each reader to give his opinion concerning the points raised hereafter (by mail, fax or e-mail acta.gastroenterologica@swing.be). The 3 first questions concerned the reviewing process. The answers were quite homogeneous with some subtle distinctions. Most of the reviewers wished to be asked by fax or e-mail if they would agree to review a manuscript. This is indeed faster and cheaper than classic postal carriage and avoid sending the whole copy of the manuscript initially. We have some unfortunate examples of manuscripts being returned after a long time because the reviewer was unable to handle it in time. However, the policy will not be generalised, but adapted to the wish of the reviewer ! If someone preferred to be asked by post, we will respect his opinion. Whether electronic reviewing should be able to reduce the time of the reviewing process has not gained overall agreement. Indeed, it requires Internet connection between the authors, Editorial Board and the reviewers and a standardised exchange format including the tables and figures. It will certainly not be immediately applicable, but is a challenge for the future. Nevertheless, for the reviewers who asked for this kind of communication, we will make every effort to make it possible and friendly....
