@article{SHEN2026, 
author = {Xibin SHEN and Peng LI and Liyang HUANG and Hongxia LIU and Wei ZHAO and Xiangzheng LYU and Junmin WEI},
title = {Collaborative Development and Ecological Governance Mechanisms of Partner Journals in China's Scientific Journal Clusters},
year = {2026},
journal = {Science-Technology & Publication},
volume = {45},
number = {3},
pages = {93-104},
keywords = {STM journals, journal clustering, partner journals, ecosystem governance, Chinese Medical Journal Network Cluster},
url = {https://www.sciopen.com/article/10.16510/j.cnki.kjycb.20260326.001},
doi = {10.16510/j.cnki.kjycb.20260326.001},
abstract = {Using the Chinese Medical Journal Network Cluster as the research object, this paper systematically examines its mechanism innovation and practical exploration in the integration of partner journals, with the aim of discussing how scientific journal clusters in China can effectively integrate partner journals, stimulate their willingness to participate, and build sustainable mechanisms of collaborative development and ecological governance. By focusing on the operational logic of cluster-based journal development, the study seeks to provide both a theoretical reference and a practical pathway for the clustered development of scientific journals with Chinese characteristics. The analysis begins by clarifying the conceptual connotations and governance features of partner journals. On this basis, the paper proposes a three-tier framework for collaborative development and ecological governance, namely "basic empowerment–value enhancement–ecological co-construction." This framework serves as the core analytical structure of the study. "Basic empowerment" refers to the foundational support provided by the cluster in such aspects as platform construction, process optimization, and operational support, so as to improve the conditions under which partner journals participate in cluster development. "Value enhancement" emphasizes the improvement of journal quality, brand influence, and service capability through cluster participation. "Ecological co-construction" further points to the establishment of a more sustainable and interactive journal ecosystem through collaboration, sharing, and coordinated development among participating journals. The paper argues that only by moving from basic support to value growth and then to ecological coordination can journal clusters form a sustainable governance mechanism rather than a merely administrative or short-term organizational arrangement. The effectiveness of this framework is then validated through the practice of the Chinese Medical Journal Network Cluster. As of January 2026, the cluster had grown to 298 journals, including 100 partner journals, accounting for 33.6% of the total. Among them, 72 journals had been indexed in major domestic and international databases. The cluster's operation also produced measurable improvements in publishing efficiency and journal development. The publication delay and online publication delay were shortened by 9.8 days and 8.6 days, respectively. Among Chinese-language journals, 11 journals, accounting for 73.3%, recorded an increase in impact factor. These results indicate that cluster participation can generate concrete benefits in visibility, efficiency, and journal performance. The paper therefore argues that scientific journal clustering should adhere to a service-oriented rather than management-dominated approach. In other words, the cluster should not function primarily through top-down control, but should instead improve participation and sustainability by continuously providing support, strengthening value creation, and fostering ecological collaboration. By constructing a systematic three-tier framework that balances standardized efficiency with individualized needs, journal clusters may follow a development path characterized by brand leadership, technological empowerment, and ecological co-construction. In this sense, the intensive operational model of the Chinese Medical Journal Network Cluster provides a practical path that is both referential and replicable for the broader development of scientific journal clusters in China.}
}