Impact of double-blind reviewing on SIGMOD publication rates

Abstract

Starting with the 2001 SIGMOD conference, the SIGMOD Chair, in consultation with the SIGMOD Advisory Committee, imposed a double blind rule on all future SIGMOD conferences. While there are many reasons why double-blind reviewing might be a good idea, the one most frequently cited is that it is fairer to more junior researchers. It is not, however, without its problems, including anecdotal reports of papers being rejected because their authors failed to cite their own papers as related work in order to not violate the anonymity rules and a complication of the job of the program chair who must interpret and enforce the double-blind rules. One very qualified individual turned down an offer to be PC chair of an upcoming SIGMOD conference because he did not want to have to deal with the headaches of double-blind reviewing.