Definition

Open Access is the free distribution of publications online, while respecting copyright. Primarily intended for specialized research (as opposed to the general public), Open Access ensures excellent visibility for publications and facilitates access for researchers.

Types of Open Access

There are two types of Open Access: "Green" and "Gold". In Green OA, the publisher authorizes authors to deposit a version of their publication in an open digital archive, sometimes after an embargo period. We prefer Open Access Gold. The final version (peer-reviewed, edited, corrected and formatted) is available for free download with DOI referencing.

Book Processing Charge (BCP)

Publication costs may vary depending on the book, particularly if it has a large number of illustrations requiring complex graphic processing. As a guideline, we suggest a basic rate of CHF 40.00/sheet (1500 characters including spaces) for a work of less than 300 sheets, then CHF 20.00 per additional sheet. This rate covers complete editorial management, including the following editorial processes:

- general editorial coordination
- double-blind expertise (organized by the publisher)
- editorial review (structure, style, content verification, etc.)
- proofreading (spelling, syntax, typography)
- pre-production (harmonization, styles, simple iconography)
- layout and page make-up
- proofreading and follow-up
- digitalization

These costs do not include :

- iconographic acquisition (reproduction authorizations and files)
- printing

Financing Open Access

GCP is paid for by authors, usually via their institutions and/or funding bodies. Today, universities and colleges generally have "publication funds" specifically dedicated to OA publication, sometimes managed by their academic libraries. The Swiss National Science Foundation (SNSF) can also be approached for funding (see https://oa100.snf.ch/fr/encouragement/livres/). Note that the SNSF requires Open Access publication for the research it funds.

Print version of an Open Access book

Open Access publication does not exclude the publication of a print version in parallel. It is up to the publisher to determine the terms and conditions, based on his or her market analysis. Various (combinable) models can be proposed.

Short commercial print run

The publisher prints a generally short-run stock on publication. The book then enters conventional distribution channels. Depending on the print run and printing costs, authors may be asked to make a contribution in addition to the GCP.

Print on Demand (POD)

When placed on IAD, the book is not printed upon publication, but is referenced for diffusion and distribution. The bookseller's or end customer's order is automatically transmitted to the printer, who then prints and dispatches the copy or copies within a few days. It should be noted that DPI is not very suitable for full-color books, as the unit printing cost often exceeds the appropriate selling price. In addition, production is limited to standard papers.

Off-price printing

At the authors' request, the publisher produces a print run for their own use. This stock, of which they define the number of copies to be purchased at printing cost, does not enter the distribution circuit as such, although this does not rule out making it available for IAD. Depending on the case and the off-the-shelf print run, the publisher may also offer to increase the quantity to build up a short commercial stock (the publisher and authors mutually benefit from the economies of scale on quantity).

Your project

The explanations above give you an initial idea of the possibilities of AO publishing. However, since every book is different, we'd be delighted to discuss your project and its specific features with you. Please contact us at info@epflpress.org.