Pricing Framework to Foster Global Equity in Scholarly Publishing

"cOAlition S is pleased to announce the release of a new pricing framework designed to foster global equity in scholarly publishing. Developed by Information Power following consultation with the funder, library/consortium, and publisher communities, the framework is introduced to enable discussion, promote greater transparency and inspire publishers and other service providers to implement more equitable pricing across different economies. To support this, the framework provides users with guiding principles, data, information, and tools. The approach is adaptable, allowing publishers to implement changes gradually and in line with their specific circumstances. It can be applied to various pricing models, including article processing charges (APCs), subscriptions, and transformative agreements...

Key features of the framework include:

●      Open, Transparent Data: Utilizing World Bank International Comparison Program data, reflecting each country’s income and ability to pay.

●      Banding: Grouping countries into bands eases administration.

●      Excel-Based Tool: Allowing publishers to explore and set their own bands and differential prices using the same transparent data.

●      Local Currencies: Issuing invoices in local currencies where possible.

●      Comprehensive Appendices: Detailed guidance on data sources, downloading World Bank datasets, and changes in country indices from 2017 to 2021."