Unveiling the Driving Forces Behind the Reorganization of the Scientific Communication System: An Analytical Perspective

Abstract

This paper provides a comprehensive analysis of the driving factors contributing to the reorganization of the scientific communication system. In light of the transformative changes witnessed in recent years, including technological advancements, shifts in scholarly publishing practices, and evolving research dissemination norms, there is a pressing need to understand the underlying drivers propelling this restructuring process. Drawing upon insights from bibliometric analysis, qualitative interviews with key stakeholders, and theoretical frameworks from sociology of science and information science, this study identifies and examines the multifaceted influences shaping the reconfiguration of the scientific communication landscape. We investigate factors such as open access mandates, digital repositories, alternative metrics, interdisciplinary collaboration, and the rise of preprint servers, among others, and assess their impact on the dissemination, accessibility, and evaluation of scientific knowledge. Moreover, we explore the interplay between these driving forces and institutional, disciplinary, and cultural contexts, elucidating how different stakeholders, including researchers, publishers, funding agencies, and policymakers, navigate and respond to these transformative dynamics. Through a nuanced analysis of these driving factors, this research contributes to a deeper understanding of the ongoing reorganization of the scientific communication system and offers insights into potential pathways for enhancing the effectiveness, inclusivity, and sustainability of scholarly communication practices in the digital age.