Focus Group "Publication advice"

The establishment of institutional open access publication platforms was an initial reason to develop advisory services on the topic of publishing at libraries and the starting point for general publication advice that goes beyond this. This expansion of the subject area also brings new challenges for the advisors, such as identifying new relevant topics and preparing them for advisory practice. Questions also arise with regard to the development of the competences of publication consultants.
The focus group emerged from the workshop ‘Promoting exchange: Initial workshop on the establishment of a networking platform for publication advisors’ as part of the Open Access Days 2024 in Cologne. You can find the slides from this workshop on Zenodo: zenodo.org/doi/10.5281/zenodo.13833192

The focus group Publication Advice aims to promote the exchange and networking of people throughout the DACH region who are active in the context of publication advice and research support.

The following topics, among others, can be discussed in the focus group:

• Further development of the range of topics and advisory services        
• Best practice examples
• Acquiring skills for work in publication counselling
• Creation and exchange of materials
• Opportunities for further training
• Exchange of experience: What works, what doesn't?
• Joint events for researchers
• Job profile ‘Publication consultant’     

In virtual meetings, practical presentations are planned on topics in publication counselling and best practice examples from institutions. Furthermore, an exchange of experiences will be facilitated through discussions.  
A first online meeting is planned for January 2025, more detailed information and an invitation to participate will follow in good time via mailing lists. We look forward to hearing from you in advance as well as suggestions for specific presentation topics or formats.