In our previous blog, we explained how startups are changing the dynamics of scholarly publishing. In the second part of this post, we explain how academic publishing is further advancing through startups.
Funding
We are usually exposed to the methods and procedures of research, however, we often forget that funding is also a component in which many face challenges. However, impressive startups have solutions to these obstacles. Startups such as PetriDish.org and Experiment, using the concept of crowdfunding, bring in funds for research by networking with graduate students and other scholars.
Accommodating Open Access
Open access has been gaining acceptance among many publishers and institutions. In order to supplement the rise of open access, startups have been pivotal to the process. However, while having many benefits, open access has its own set of challenges as well. For example, many publishers cite the lack of control over online work. To provide a solution, Scholastica integrates the entire publishing process online and even provides incentives to help open access scholars. Knowledge Unlatched, PeerJ, PubMed, Open Book Publishers, Uniquity Press, Public Library of Sciences, and the OAPEN discovery programmes are some impressive startups that are actively accommodating the specific needs as well as challenges of open access publishers.
Becoming Social
In our previous blog, we have emphasized about scholarly publishing becoming more social. As the need for social media becomes more commonplace, it is also interesting to realize that startups emphasizing in social networking are rapidly rising in the scholarly publishing industry. Startups such as Learning Catalytics, Mendeley, and Amplify have been acquired by major publishers. As new publishing models and digital distribution gain further acceptance, the need for scholarly collaboration through social platforms is inevitable.
Overall, startups are playing a vital role for scholarly publishers. Regardless of the publishing model and organization, challenges are always part of the process. The rise of startups in providing solutions for these challenges prove that they are necessary for the future of academic publishing. We are excited to see the role of startups in the industry by providing new solutions, increasing opportunities, and advancing academic publishing.