3rd UNITE: A Transformative Step in OJS Management and Global Research Visibility
Islamabad/Online – September 2025 – Xpertno Research Center (SMC Pvt.) Ltd. has announced the launch of its 3rd UNITE (Universal Network for International Training & Education) event, a groundbreaking initiative focusing on Open Journal Systems (OJS) management, upgradation, and global indexing strategies. This edition of UNITE aims to empower journal editors, researchers, and IT professionals with practical tools to strengthen their publishing practices and enhance international research visibility.
The Purpose of UNITE
In today’s academic landscape, the credibility of research is not determined solely by the content itself but by how efficiently it is managed, indexed, and disseminated worldwide. The 3rd UNITE is designed to bridge the gaps that many editors and institutions face:
- Migrating to upgraded versions of OJS.
- Implementing metadata standards compatible with indexing databases such as DOAJ, Scopus, and Web of Science.
- Integrating persistent identifier systems like DOI and SEIPID.
- Adopting SEO and digital publishing best practices to expand global reach.
The event will span two days (15–16 November 2025), featuring workshops, live demonstrations, panel discussions, and case studies, offering participants not just theoretical insights but also hands-on experience.
CEO’s Vision: Raja Nasir Razzaq Speaks
The driving force behind UNITE is Raja Nasir Razzaq, Director and CEO of the Expert Novice Group and XRC, a PhD scholar and academic entrepreneur who has consistently worked towards uplifting research practices in Pakistan and beyond.
Speaking about the event, he remarked,
“Many journals are struggling with the technical complexities of OJS — upgrading, metadata management, indexing, and visibility. Our mission with UNITE is to simplify these processes and equip editors with the knowledge and tools to ensure their journals shine on the global research map.”
He further highlighted:
“Indexing bodies like Scopus and Web of Science have strict standards. Without proper workflows, metadata management, and ethical practices, many journals risk being left behind. UNITE provides a platform to address these challenges and prepare journals for international recognition.”
Key Themes and Sub-Themes
The conference program will revolve around four major areas:
- Editorial Workflow and Role Management – aligning editors, reviewers, and authors with OJS functionality.
- Upgradation and Customization – practical strategies for data migration, plugin compatibility, and design enhancements.
- Metadata and Indexing – equipping journals to meet requirements of DOAJ, Scopus, and WoS, alongside DOI and SEIPID integration.
- Collaborations and Governance – building institutional partnerships and sustainable publishing ecosystems.
Expected Outcomes
Organizers anticipate that participants will walk away with:
- Confidence in handling OJS workflows and editorial management.
- Practical experience in upgrading and customizing their systems.
- Clear strategies for indexing readiness and persistent identifier integration.
- A professional network of editors, researchers, and technical experts for ongoing collaboration.
The Bigger Picture
While the initiative is ambitious, challenges remain. Variations in technical capacity among institutions, the complex criteria of indexing agencies, and the need for long-term sustainability could pose hurdles. However, the Xpertno Research Center (XRC) is determined to ensure that participants not only gain training but also develop a clear roadmap for continuous improvement.
Register Now
The 3rd UNITE event represents a critical intervention in Pakistan’s and the region’s research publishing ecosystem. By focusing on OJS modernization, indexing compliance, and international collaboration, it has the potential to reshape how journals operate and gain recognition globally. Under the leadership of Raja Nasir Razzaq, the initiative promises to provide editors and publishers with the guidance they need to take their journals from local platforms to international stages.