Augmenting the gatekeeper´s role: a decision support system for a journal editor

The design and implementation of a microcomputer-based decision support system (DSS) to assist an editor´s manuscript selection procedure for journal publication are discussed. The DSS organizes and maintains the information necessary for cataloging and tracking the referees´ evaluations of manuscripts submitted for potential publication. Referee selection is supported by matching the functional and methodological attributes of the manuscripts with the declared expertise of the referees. Historical records of past review performances are used to enhance the editor´s ability to effectively and efficiently assign referees to incoming manuscripts. The DSS was developed to release the editor from operational activities, decrease manuscript turnaround times, and facilitate prompt and accurate responses to author queries regarding the status of their manuscripts