In the context of today’s global push towards open research, many subscription-based journals are debating whether or how to flip to open access. The term ‘flipping’ refers to converting one or more paywalled titles to an open access publishing model, which involves a shift in business models and licensing. Most often, flipping a journal means that all future content is openly accessible via the gold or diamond open access routes, and that it uses Creative Commons licences (see Glossary).

Planning for a flip

A journal’s ability to flip to open access is contingent on support from all its publishing stakeholders. In the process of flipping a journal, the following questions should be considered:

• What is the goal of transitioning the journal to open access?
• Who owns the rights to the journal, and are they supportive of such a transition?
• Who are the key stakeholders that must be consulted about such a transition?
• How can the current business model be tapered off for authors and subscribers?
• If an article processing charge model is to be adopted, what is the appropriate price point to sustain journal operations?
• How can a print program (if one exists) be maintained after the transition?

If the journal is being managed independently, decision-making is likely to be easier. If working with a publishing partner who has no interest in adopting an open access model, options include undertaking the flip independently or partnering with a new organisation, such as a mission-driven university press open to working with or launching open access titles.

Starting a new open access journal may be the only option available if working with a corporate publishing partner. They often own the copyright to the journal title and may not agree to transfer it or flip the journal.

Financial considerations

Naturally, financial concerns tend to dominate discussions about switching subscription titles to open access. To support a sustainable transition, scholarly societies and university presses that rely on subscription revenue may need to assess different open access funding options and explore alternative income sources. In some instances, starting a new journal may be a more feasible entry point to open access, particularly if more complex funding mechanisms have to be set up and operationalised. This process may sound daunting, but it is important to acknowledge that several approaches have been devised to make the transition as smooth as possible.

From the perspective of openness and access for both authors and readers, a flip to a diamond model is ideal. Diamond open access can be pursued in cases where external funding is available, for example, via an institution, sector organisation or funder. In other cases, journals may consider introducing article processing charges (APCs), which can be paid by individual authors, their institutions, or via grants from some research funders.

Although waivers may be offered based on location, this remains a less accessible model for authors in some regions of the world. Another model is called Subscribe to Open, which allows publishers to convert journals to open access one year at a time. The content published is made available via open access if subscribers continue to renew their subscription.

Finally, we note that mechanisms such as Transformative journals and Transitional agreements have been introduced to support the transition of subscription or hybrid journals towards open access. However, these mechanisms are seen as a temporary transitioning tool and, in time, will receive less support from research funders.