Bibliometric Techniques And Their Use In Business And Economics Research

Bibliometric indicators and bibliometric techniques have been used in the domains of business and economics (BE) in the context of network studies and the evaluation of universities, journals and researchers, among other purposes. Using a strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats analysis as a general framework, we present an overview of the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats related to the use of mainstream bibliometrics in BE. Several weaknesses in the use of bibliometric indicators for research evaluation in BE, and, in general, are discussed. Misuse of bibliometric indicators may lead to goal displacement and gender bias. Yet, being aware of possible problems leads to opportunities for further developments and applications of bibliometrics in the field of BE. We propose that traditional research evaluation should evolve into evaluative inquiry, a method where bibliometric indicators play a role, but in which all aspects of life and work of a scientific professional can be taken into account and assessment is relabelled in positive terms such as organizational and individual development, care and support.