Multidisciplinary Digital Publishing Institute announces new ‘freemium’ pricing model
Multidisciplinary Digital Publishing Institute (MDPI) has announced a new “freemium” pricing model as it aims to “democratize journal publishing”.
MDPI will allow journals to publish up to 20 manuscripts each year with a full submission-system free of charge. Affordable scaling options will be available as journals grow. It hopes this will allow smaller journals, particularly those based in the global south, to grow.
The new model will provide journals with access to a system promoting rigor and quality free of charge, while still in their infancy.
MDPI plans to use its Journal and Article Management System (JAMS) to support the new model.
Silvano Bonfatti, JAMS Product Manager at MDPI, explains: “Our new ‘freemium’ model represents a fundamental shift in how academic publishing technology is delivered to young journals, removing financial barriers that have traditionally prevented smaller journals from accessing professional-grade editorial systems.
“This strategic evolution positions JAMS as the most accessible and transparent editorial partner for small and independent publishers, combining transparent pricing with genuine partnership.”
"We’ve had a great experience working with JAMS. As a small, new journal without substantial funding, we explored many options and are super happy to have found JAMS. The system itself is very robust and capable of more than we even realized we would need,” adds Dr Kara Mitchell Viesca, Managing Editor at RJME.
“Also, the support we have received has been top-notch. We have had the opportunity to customize much of the system for our needs. And throughout the entire process, we’ve had excellent, timely communication and support for every aspect of our use of JAMS."
