New GSJ Graphical Abstracts help authors showcase their research

The way scientific research is communicated and consumed is changing. Clinicians, researchers, and decision-makers increasingly engage with scientific content through digital channels, where visual communication helps key findings stand out and reach wider audiences.

To support authors in maximizing the reach of their work, the Global Spine Journal (GSJ) is introducing a new Graphical Abstract format for accepted manuscripts. Developed using a standardized GSJ template, graphical abstracts provide a concise visual summary of a study's key messages, making it easier for readers to quickly understand the purpose, methods, and conclusions of the research. 

The new template is available with guidelines on the GSJ website Submission Guidelines: Global Spine Journal: Sage Journals or can be downloaded here.  

Why use a graphical abstract?

A graphical abstract helps communicate the essence of a study at a glance. It can be used across multiple channels, including:

• Social media posts and campaigns
• Conference presentations
• Educational materials
• Institutional websites and newsletters
• Personal and professional networking platforms

By presenting research findings in a clear visual format, authors can make their work more accessible to busy clinicians and researchers, potentially increasing engagement, discussion, and dissemination of their findings.

Supporting greater research impact

Multiple scientific publishers are adopting graphical abstracts and infographics as a way to improve discoverability and audience engagement. A well-designed graphical abstract can encourage readers to explore the full article and helps communicate key messages beyond traditional academic audiences.

For AO Spine researchers, graphical abstracts offer an additional opportunity to showcase important findings, highlight clinical relevance, and strengthen the visibility of their work within the global spine community.

A standardized GSJ approach

The new GSJ graphical abstract template provides a consistent structure for summarizing:

• Study design
• Objectives and background
• Key findings
• Conclusions

The template uses a clean visual layout and recommended iconography to help authors present their research in a professional and easy-to-read format. All elements are fully editable to serve different kinds of studies.

Visual summaries support other research communication, and GSJ Editors-in-Chief Jeff Wang, Jens Chapman, and Karsten Wiechert encourage authors to consider graphical abstracts as part of their publication strategy: “Visually communicating the key elements and outcomes of your study can help you reach broader audiences, facilitate knowledge translation, and extend the impact of your published work. It can clarify your message and encourage your audience to access and read the full study.”

AO Spine and GSJ also continue to support researchers with Article Processing Charge (APC) Waiver Program for eligible AO Spine member authors and a new author kit that will be published in the next few weeks. Details regarding waiver eligibility, submission requirements, and other author resources are available in the GSJ Submission Guidelines.

For more information, contact GSJ Managing Editor & Project Manager Danielle B. Lieberman