Establishment of scientific research performance evaluation index system based on Delphi method and Multi-AHP for medical universities in western China developing areas

Abstract

Objective Taking into account of the actual scientific research conducted at medical universities in Yunnan Province, Southwest China, to develop an appropriate evaluation index system of scientific research performance. Methods main methodologies and procedures adopted to develop the evaluation index system include literature analysis, Delphi method, Group Analytic Hierarchy Process and Expert authority calculation. Results The evaluation index system of scientific research performance consists of scientific research input index system and output index system. The scientific research input index system includes financial input and human resources input as two primary indicators.While the scientific research output index system is made up of two primary indicators, named quantitative output and qualitative output. There are another six second-level indicators, six third-level indicators and 37 fourth-level indicators to make up of the quantitative output index system. Calculation of the indicator weight will consider the natures of different units or departments, the mixed analysis of quantitative and qualitative methods, as well as one-vote veto decision were adopted to make sure classified assessment were actually implemented during the evaluation process. Conclusions The index system is suggested to be used for evaluating scientific research performance in different colleges or departments. Adopting such system can help the management of scientific research performances at both micro-and meso-levels.It may also inspire more researchers and research management personnel in a broader sense. Key words: Scientific research performance; Evaluation index system; Delphi; Multi-AHP