Q: Is there a problem with sequential publication in different conferences and journals?

This practice is not inherently problematic if the journal version contains substantial new material, the prior conference presentation is disclosed, and it complies with relevant copyright agreements. Let’s look at this in more detail.

Most conferences allow authors to submit their work for publication in a journal afterward, especially if the journal version is significantly expanded or refined. It is common for conferences to permit this practice, as it encourages further development and dissemination of ideas. Some journals are open to publishing work that has been previously presented at a conference, provided that the journal version includes substantial new content or analysis, not just minor edits.

The key issue is the degree of overlap between the conference paper and the journal article. If the journal article is substantially expanded and revised, with significant new content or analysis, it is generally more acceptable. However, if there is minimal new material, it could be seen as self-plagiarism or duplicate publication. In addition, practices vary across disciplines. In computer science, for instance, it is more common to extend conference papers into journal articles.

Here’s what you could do in your situation:

• Check the policies of the Society A conference regarding whether subsequent journal publication is allowed. Check the copyright agreements for both the conference and journal.
• Check the policies and copyright agreements of the journal of Society B.
• If no clear answers are available, be sure that you disclose in your submission to the journal of Society B that a previous version was presented at a conference.

As long as you ensure that the journal submission is a significantly expanded version of the conference presentation and both the conference and journal policies are followed and you are transparent about the prior presentation, there should be no problem! Good luck