Why does HTML matter?
When academic publishing first moved from print to digital, PDF became the go-to format, as it replicated the look and feel of a printed page while offering the convenience of online access. PDFs were easy to download, cite, and archive, and they preserved layout and formatting across devices. However, as the way we read and interact with content evolved, HTML, a format built for academics in the digital age, emerged. With dynamic features and mobile responsiveness, HTML allows content to be displayed directly in a web browser in a more engaging format, without completely replacing PDFs.
HTML is beneficial to both journal editors and researchers/readers in different ways. It shapes how content is presented and discovered, adapting seamlessly to the needs of both those who publish and those who use academic content.
KNE CLUE: HOW DOES HTML BENEFIT RESEARCHERS?
As a researcher, you often rely on abstracts to judge an article’s relevance, but when they fall short, downloading the whole paper can feel like a hassle because you have to wait for the file to download, open it in a separate app or tab, and then scroll through several pages just to find the section you need. This may sound like a minor disruption, but when it is repeated over several articles, it can make the process feel inefficient, especially when you are not even sure the paper will be helpful in your research. HTML articles solve this by letting you view the content instantly in your browser, so no downloads are needed. It offers a smoother, more flexible reading experience. Unlike other formats, they adapt to different screen sizes, making them easy to read on mobile phones, tablets, and laptops. This ensures that readers can access research wherever they are, without needing to pinch and zoom to be able to read effectively.
HTML also has features like clickable citations that allow movement between articles. It makes it easy to search through content within the article, letting readers instantly locate keywords or phrases rather than spending time scrolling through pages. It also makes it easier to share research. Whether it is emailing a link, posting on social media, or citing it in a blog, a live web page is more user-friendly than a downloadable file.
KNE CLUE: HOW DOES HTML BENEFIT JOURNAL EDITORS?
As a journal editor, while having an HTML viewing option increases the cost, time and effort needed during the workflow, it offers benefits in terms of visibility, engagement and discoverability. HTML articles are more easily indexed by search engines, making content more accessible to a global audience and increasing the chances of being found, read, and cited. HTML articles offer journals greater flexibility in design and content presentation. HTML formats allow for customised layouts that align with a journal’s visual identity, incorporating branding elements like logos and colour schemes. HTML also supports media integration, enabling journals to embed videos, audio, interactive figures, and datasets directly into the article. This enhances the reader experience and will likely increase the shareability and visibility of articles.
HTML articles can also streamline content management. Corrections, retractions, and updates can be made quickly without requiring re-uploaded files or separate errata pages, ensuring the published version is always up-to-date.