In this whitepaper, we examine the markers of a reputable journal within the context of a growing research landscape. By providing an overview of present-day research and publishing and the rising stakes of academic integrity therein, we examine how impact factors can affect a research career and a journal’s reputation. What are the components of a high impact factor, how can they be achieved, and moreover, how can they be sustained as the research landscape becomes more competitive? In sum: how can you safeguard and increase your impact factor?