Web-based manuscript processing

Abstract

Summary form only given, as follows. In March 1876, the now famous words "Mr. Watson - come here - I want to see you" uttered by Alexander Graham Bell launched wired telephony in the United States. Over time, America was criss-crossed by POTS (plain-old-telephone service) lines. Ironically, although the US was in the forefront of this wired telephone revolution, it lagged behind in large-scale deployment of the wireless telephony. Nations worldwide jumped ahead making widespread use of cellular telephony much earlier by simply installing communication towers and becoming connected by wireless overnight. The reason for this is that, however primitive it may be, it is difficult to displace an existing technology that works. A parallel can be drawn between this and the manuscript handing process for publications of the Electron Devices Society. Back in the early 90's, we were in the lead in IEEE, computerizing the handling of manuscripts using primitive DOS-based applications running on the newborn personal computer. We refined this system over time and delayed the cut-over to web-based systems waiting for the technology to mature. We believe that the time is now ripe to make this transition. Starting January 1st, 2008, we have started processing all submissions to Electron Device Letters using IEEE's web-based "Manuscript Central Author Submission and Peer Review System." To submit manuscripts using this system, please visit http://mc.manuscriptcentral.com/edl. In accordance with this new system, please DO NOT send manuscripts directly to the Editor-in-Chief or to the Publications Office. Your submitted manuscript will now be accessed via the Manuscript Central.We welcome any suggestions you may have to make this system more user-friendly, efficient and versatile.