Cassidy R. Sugimoto and Vincent Larivière. Measuring Research: What Everyone Needs to Know. New York: Oxford University Press. 2018. 149p. Paper, $16.95 (ISBN 978-0-19-064012-5). LC 2017-18852.

Abstract

This book’s title is a bit of a misnomer; the research that is being measured is primarily scientometric or bibliometric research, There is nothing at all wrong with this focus, but buyers and readers should be aware that it does not cover all forms of research in all fields. That said, it is an excellent guide to scientometric research. The authors state the purpose up front: “This book is of a different nature: it provides, in accessible terms, an overview of the historical foundations, key concepts and terms, guides to interpretation, critiques, and recommendations for measuring research” (3). Their summary near the end of the book is, to an extent, a bit clearer as to purpose: “In many ways, measuring research begins with the data. Data providers and indexers must be accountable for ensuring that their data are accurate and transparent, providing information on inclusion criteria or coverage” (122). The latter description is more telling as to the content of the book.