An Evaluation of the Effectiveness of Academic Journal Management in Thailand

Abstract

Background and Objective: Academic journals are critical in disseminating scholarly knowledge and enhancing research quality. Effective journal management is essential, particularly for journals within the Thai-Journal Citation Index (TCI) system that aim to meet international standards. This study investigated the key management factors influencing the effectiveness of academic journals in Thailand based on the Fishbone Diagram and Total Quality Management (TQM) frameworks.

Methodology: A quantitative research design was applied. Data were collected from 211 academic journals listed in TCI groups 1, 2, 3, and new entries using a structured questionnaire, validated through expert review, with a Cronbach’s alpha of 0.97. Data analysis employed descriptive statistics, one-way ANOVA, Kruskal-Wallis test, Tukey HSD, and multiple regression analysis.

Results: The regression model accounted for 77.2% of the variance in journal management effectiveness (R² = 0.772, p < 0.001). Four factors showed statistically significant positive influence: measurement (β = 0.362, p < 0.001), environment
(β = 0.207, p = 0.001), method (β = 0.199, p < 0.001), and manpower (β = 0.163, p = 0.001). However, machine and material were not statistically significant. ANOVA and Kruskal-Wallis results indicated significant performance differences among TCI groups, with Group 3 journals exhibiting lower effectiveness than Groups 1 and 2 (p < 0.001).

Conclusion: The study underscores the importance of performance measurement, supportive environment, structured methods, and capable manpower in enhancing journal effectiveness. The findings support integrating quality management models such as TQM and Fishbone to elevate Thai academic journals toward international standards.