The implementation of open access : 3rd report of session 2012-13, report

This report welcomes RCUK's recent clarification that it will gradually phase in its open access policy over a five year implementation phase, and recommends that RCUK update its policy guidance and all its communications to reflect the anticipated "journey to compliance" and its flexibility over embargo periods.

The Committee calls for monitoring of the impact of open access, both at fixed review points and throughout the implementation period.

It also recommends that, given the widespread confusion over the policy, the Department for Business Innovation and Skills must review the effectiveness of RCUK's communication about open access to ensure that lessons are learnt.

RCUK should monitor the effects of open access in its autumn 2014 review and beyond. This review should consider: whether different disciplines require different embargo periods, licenses and primary models of publication; whether the UK, in stating a preference for "gold" open access, is moving in the same direction as other countries which are mandating open access (but not necessarily gold open access); whether article processing charges have adversely affected the number of international articles published in UK journals; effects on the quality of peer review; impact on the number of collaborations by UK researchers; and effects on learned societies