Factors in setting prices of scientific journals

Abstract

The concerns of librarians and other subscribers about the rising prices of scientific journal subscriptions are placed in context in this discussion of the marketing mix: product, price, provider and promotion. Journal prices are affected by such disparate elements as demands on scientists to publish or perish, agents’ discounts, and currency fluctuations. The influence of technology—from widespread use of photocopying machines to the anticipated obsolescence of print media—also affects prices.