STM publishing encompasses academic journals, trade journals, and textbooks.
STM publishers tend to be non-profit organizations whose mission is to disseminate knowledge rather than make a profit rather than seek ways to increase profit for themselves. Many STM publishers are affiliated with learned societies or universities.
During the 17th century, STM publishing began with the publication of scientific journals that allowed scientists to communicate their discoveries to one another. The first such journal, Philosophical Transactions of the Royal Society, was first issued for publication in 1665.
STM publishers play an invaluable role in disseminating knowledge. STM publishing serves a vital function that would otherwise hinder scientific advances by allowing scientists to share their findings with others. With their services, advancement would be significantly expanded.
STM publishing’s primary objective is to inform scientists of discoveries. Furthermore, STM publishing ensures these studies reach as broad an audience as possible to advance scientific advancement and knowledge.
Moreover, STM publishing is a highly competitive industry. Elsevier, Springer, Wiley-Blackwell, and Taylor & Francis are the top publishers in this space and produce most STM journals that are often ranked by impact factor.
STM publishing is a multifaceted process requiring peer review, editing, and marketing of scientific papers. Peer review is vital to secure the quality of STM papers; once accepted for publication, they typically undergo professional editing by editors employed by publishers; marketing is also critical to ensure they reach a wide readership and citation base.
STM publishing is essential in disseminating scientific and medical knowledge to support the advancement of both disciplines while offering peer review that ensures scientific quality.