IJMHeur aims to expose the reader to valuable and cutting-edge approaches for solving difficult practical and theoretical problems, and to foster discussion through the publication of high-quality, informative, and scientifically rigorous articles. It also aims to maintain an effective channel of communication between academics, researchers and practitioners in the field of metaheuristics.

In general, we consider a metaheuristic to be any algorithmic framework, nature inspired or otherwise, that defines a set of heuristic methods that can be directed towards a variety of different optimisation problems. In other words, metaheuristics represent "higher level" heuristic-based algorithms that can be applied to various individual problems with relatively few modifications needing to be made in each case.

IJMHeur is especially intended for furthering the overall understanding of metaheuristic algorithms and to assess not only their strengths, but also their weaknesses. To these ends, the publication of negative results is also accepted, particularly if they reveal previously unknown limitations of an existing method.

IJMHeur places a special emphasis on ensuring studies are carried out accurately using rigorous scientific method. Algorithms should therefore be carefully designed and appropriately analysed, and authors are encouraged to assess the statistical validity of their results whenever possible.

IJMHeur is aimed at professionals, academics, students, researchers and policy makers, who are interested in the potential of metaheuristic techniques for solving problems. In particular, this includes people with backgrounds in computer science, mathematics, engineering, and quantitative management science.

IJMHeur publishes high-quality papers, review articles and case studies. As a rule, only original work that has not been published elsewhere will be considered, though conference papers etc. may be accepted if they have been substantially enhanced. Special issues of the journal that focus in on a particular aspect of the field are also published from time-to-time. All papers are submitted to a sub-editor and are peer-reviewed by at least two referees.