Quality in a Scientific Journal/ la Calidad en Una Revista Cientifica/a Qualidade Em Uma Revista Cientifica

The concept of quality is conditioned by the requirements of the desired product, and in the case of a scientific publication it becomes necessary to focus on the fundamental elements of such quality. These can be grouped in three areas: contents, formal structure and timely production. The quality of the contents of a scientific journal can be considered as the most important of all. It is determined by the scientific level of the authors, and by the level and rigorousness of the editorial body and its referees. Editors and referees vary according to the reach -local, national, regional or global- and the nature -general, specialized or multidisciplinary- of the publication. However, their roles are equally crucial in determining the quality, inclusive of the unavoidable consideration of ethical standards and the celerity that is demanded from them by the community and the rhythm of the advancement of science.