User opinions for the Veterinary Radiology & Ultrasound journal differ among demographic groups

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Radiology
• Medical Publishing
• Scientific Communication

Background:

• Journal user needs evolve, requiring adaptation by veterinary editors.
• Understanding user perspectives is crucial for journal relevance and growth.
• Veterinary Radiology & Ultrasound aimed to assess its readership's opinions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze user opinions regarding the journal Veterinary Radiology & Ultrasound.
• To identify demographic differences in user perceptions of the journal.
• To inform strategic planning for journal content and editorial board composition.

Main Methods:

• A prospective survey study was conducted.
• An online survey was developed through a consensus of stakeholders.
• Survey links were emailed to members of five represented organizations, with responses collected from January to June 2016.

Main Results:

• The survey achieved a 38.5% response rate (478 responses).
• Private practitioners and North American respondents showed distinct preferences regarding reviewer feedback.
• A majority (75.1%) supported a transition to double-blinded peer review, which was implemented.
• Journal quality perceptions and satisfaction were highly correlated and increased with respondent age.

Conclusions:

• User opinions for Veterinary Radiology & Ultrasound are diverse and vary by demographic group.
• The shift to double-blinded peer review was supported by a majority of users.
• Findings provide insights for future strategic planning to align journal practices with user expectations.