"Research impact is the demonstrable contribution that excellent research makes to society and the economy. It embraces all the diverse ways that research-related skills benefit individuals, organisations and nations." - Research Councils UK (RCUK)
Why is research impact important?
Research impact metrics can be used to support applications for tenure or promotion, justify requests for grants and other funding, quantify and determine how research is being used, identify other researchers or institutions that are using research, and identify potential collaborators in the field.
Publication metrics are one way to measure the impact of published research. This guide defines and provides steps for finding many of the most common publication metrics. In addition, research librarians can assist you or your department in selecting and using appropriate metrics for your specific needs.
We can help you...
determine a specific journal's impact
learn the overall impact of your work
pull together an analysis of you or your department's impact based on citations
track who mentions your work
figure out ways to enhance the reach of your research
Be careful...
Keep in mind that no metric can replace a holistic review of research. Journal, author, and article metrics only tell part of the story and can over- or underestimate the true impact of research. We recommend that all of these metrics be used in conjunction with other ways to evaluate research, researchers, and publications and can consult with you on the responsible use of metrics..
The Duke University Medical Center Library & Archives provides access to tools and expertise in compiling and analyzing publication metrics.
Research librarians can partner with you on bibliometrics and research impact projects. Based on the purpose and scope of your project, we will tailor our services to your specific needs.
