Impact Factor
Author: Violeta Tsakova
Abstract
Summary:
Every scientist is acquainted, although to a different degree, with the impact factor and its application as a science metrics indicator. The reason for the attention and interest to this factor is its introduction and use as an important indicator in the scientific sphere. Nevertheless, the ongoing discussions and the polarization of opinions on the essence and usefulness of the impact factor are not coming to an end. The present article can be regarded as part of such a discussion. It includes the analysis of issues related to the impact factor as: reasons for its appearance and application, its definition model, its field and limits of application, its advantages and limitations, the benefits of taking this factor into account, etc. Special attention is paid to the fact that the impact factor is a numerical indicator of the rating of scientific journals. The mechanical broadening of its field of application – from journals to the qualities of papers published in them and the scientific competencies of the authors is dangerous and can lead to erroneous conclusions. The article also discusses other issues related to the impact factor as: publishing of scientific papers in periodicals, the development of the world system of referencing and assessment of scientific periodicals, the system of reviewing scientific papers, etc. The conclusion is that the impact factor is a useful indicator; its application results in higher standards for scientific journals, as well as for papers published in them. The higher requirements can help overcoming some deficiencies of periodicals market – most of all mass scale publishing to the detriment of scientific content and value.