What is doughnut publishing
Doughnut publishing describes an emerging model that aims to balance open access availability with sustainable revenue and long‑term preservation. It combines elements of open access and traditional subscription systems to support broad access while ensuring financial and editorial viability. This guide explains how the model works, how it differs from conventional approaches, and how institutions can evaluate its practical implications over time.
Key principles of doughnut publishing
Doughnut publishing operates around two linked goals: universal access and long‑term viability. Content is made openly available, but mechanisms such as institutional partnerships, membership fees, or sustainable author fees fund production, curation, and preservation. Editorial standards, peer review, and clear governance remain central. The model emphasizes stable platforms, transparent metrics, and community driven decision making.
Access and discoverability
In doughnut publishing, articles are freely accessible through persistent links and interoperable systems. Metadata are rich and machine readable, supporting indexing, linking, and reuse. Platforms prioritize interoperability with library systems, repositories, and search tools so that content remains findable now and in the future.
Sustainable funding and cost recovery
Revenue mixes aims to avoid overreliance on any single source. Common elements include institutional subscriptions or memberships, article‑processing charges where appropriate, partnerships with funders, and, in some cases, modest downstream services. The goal is to keep quality high while aligning costs with realistic budgets and measurable impact.
How the model is implemented in practice
Implementation varies by publisher, consortium, or society, but common features include coordinated platforms, shared infrastructure, and consistent policies. Many initiatives begin as pilots, then expand based on evaluation. Institutions often coordinate through consortia to negotiate fair terms and share risks. These arrangements are usually structured as long‑term agreements rather than short, unilateral contracts.
Typical implementation stages
- Stakeholder mapping and needs assessment
- Platform selection and technical design
- Policy drafting, including fees and governance
- Pilot launch with a defined set of journals or titles
- Evaluation and iterative adjustment before broader rollout
Comparison with other publishing models
| Attribute | Doughnut publishing | Traditional subscription | Pure open access (author pays) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Access model | Open access with sustainable funding mix | Restricted to subscribers | Open, generally via APCs |
| Primary funding | Memberships, institutional agreements, balanced fees | Subscription revenue | Author fees and funder support |
| Cost distribution | Shared across institutions and funders | Concentrated in library budgets | Concentrated in author or funder budgets |
| Preservation and stewardship | Long term, community governed | Publisher dependent | Varies, often dependent on publisher or repository |
| Editorial model | Independent, community informed | Publisher led | Publisher led with variations |
Evaluating doughnut publishing options
When considering doughnut publishing arrangements, institutions should review cost structures, preservation commitments, and governance. Look for transparent metrics around usage, cost per download, and long‑term archiving. Assess how policies support equity, inclusion, and diverse research communities. Favor initiatives with clear, publicly documented practices and evidence of stable funding over time.
Risks, dependencies, and limitations
Doughnut publishing is still evolving, and outcomes can vary widely. Risks include underfunded platforms, inconsistent governance, and unclear long‑term preservation responsibilities. Some projects face disruptions if funding or institutional support changes. Scalability can be challenging, especially when coordination across many institutions is required. These factors should be considered in evaluations and negotiations.
Future directions and adoption signals
Interest in doughnut publishing is growing where institutions seek more open models without sacrificing quality or long‑term viability. Adoption is often driven by consortia, universities, and funders that want coherent, sustainable systems. Progress depends on continued collaboration among publishers, libraries, funders, and infrastructure providers. Indicators of momentum include shared platforms, multiyear agreements, community governance, and public evaluation of outcomes.