ISSN and E-ISSN are the key to international recognition of scientific and professional journals. The article explains what these identifiers are, why their registration is mandatory for journals, how they affect indexing in Scopus and Web of Science, and how to avoid confusion with “predatory” publications.
In the world of publications and academic publications, the ability of a journal to stand out from the rest becomes critical, so each journal needs clear identification for ease of search. Here two key terms – ISSN and ESSN – appear. If you are a publisher or an author, understanding these identifiers can significantly affect the visibility and success of your journal and the articles in it. Let’s see what ISSN and ESSN are, what their importance is and why they should not be underestimated.
What is ISSN?
ISSN (International Standard Serial Number) is an international standard number for periodicals. It consists of eight digits separated by a hyphen (for example, 1234-5678), assigned to all printed and physical versions of serial journals, such as magazines, newspapers, almanacs, etc.
In plain words, this is a kind of identification code for the journal, which helps to avoid confusion between journals with similar names, shows their individuality and simplifies their search in international libraries, archives and databases.
The International Standard Serial Number can be checked on the ISSN website, the worldwide database of ISSN bibliographic records that identifies and describes more than 2.3 million newspapers, journals, monographic series and continuing resources of all kinds, both printed and electronic ones, from 234 countries.
ISSN data provided by a network of 93 national centers worldwide are enriched with information provided by other partners such as Scopus, DOAJ (Directory of Open Access Journals), etc.
Where can I check my registration?
The International Standard Serial Number can be checked on the ISSN portal, a global database of bibliographic records. This database contains information on more than 2.3 million newspapers, magazines, monograph series and other periodicals in various formats – print and electronic – from 234 countries.
ISSN registration data provided by a network of 93 national centers around the world, which are supplemented by information provided by other partners such as Scopus, DOAJ, etc.
What is an E-ISSN?
E-ISSN (electronic International Standard Serial Number) is an analog of ISSN for electronic versions of serial publications. It has the same format as ISSN, but is assigned for digital versions that are available online.
In the era of digitalization, the vast majority of journals around the world abandon print media, preferring only electronic formats. If your journal is published electronically, having an ESSN is a necessary component to ensure that your content is correctly identified and accessed online.
Why are ISSN і ESSN so important for your journal?
One of the biggest advantages for journals to have these identifiers is international recognition and trust. For authors, reviewers and readers, the availability of these numbers is evidence that your journal is a serious and trustworthy source of information. The ISSN or ESSN enhances the academic status of the journal and increases the chances that the journal will be included or is already on the list of international catalogs and indexes, such as Scopus or Web of Science.
The ISSN and ESSN ensure the uniqueness of the journal and confirm its originality, helping to avoid plagiarism and fraud. If you are the author of the article, these identifiers help reduce the risk of facing the journal-predator.
The ISSN and ESSN make the journal easily identifiable for libraries, scientific databases and readers. For publishers, the ISSN and ESSN simplify subscription administration and distribution processes. They provide a unified way to manage journals, which is especially important when distributed across different platforms and formats.
Libraries and academic institutions use the ISSN and ESSN to catalog and search publications. This helps readers find your magazine faster and access it without difficulty. For example, you need an Artificial Intelligence journal, but there are hundreds or even thousands of journals that include this phrase. Personal number usage provides visibility in a global environment.
If the journal has the ISSN or ESSN, it greatly simplifies the process of quoting your publications in academic papers. The identifier facilitates identifying the source of information clearly, which increases the accuracy and reliability of references.
How can I obtain the ISSN and ESSN?
You need to apply to your country’s National ISSN Centre or to the international ISSN network. To do this, you need to provide information about your journal, its description, editorial policy, as well as a number of other necessary documents.
The duration of ISSN and/or ESSN assignment can depend on many factors and can range from two weeks to three months. If you do not have time for issn registration on your own, a team of E-Science Space professionals will help solve this issue for you at a bargain price.
These identifiers do not only facilitate cataloging and access to your journal, but also increases its professional reputation. They help you stand out among the competitors and ensure that your publication is accessible and visible worldwide.
