Abstract
We present a critical analysis of the generalized use of the "impact factor". By means of the Kruskal-Wallis test, it was shown that it is not possible to compare distinct disciplines using the impact factor without adjustments. After assigning the median journal the value of one (1.000), the impact factor value for each journal was calculated by the rule of three. The adjusted values were homogeneous, thus permitting comparison among distinct disciplines.
Highlights
The use of the “impact factor” Journal Citation Reports (JCR) from the Science Citation Index (SCI) published by the Institute of Scientific Information (ISI) (1) as an indicator of scientific journal excellence is becoming increasingly generalized
Some aspects related to the indiscriminate use of the “impact factor” have been discussed elsewhere, such as its use without the evaluation of its reach, as well as its limitations for comparing scientific production among the various areas of knowledge (3,4)
As a practical result of the suggestions presented in the cited papers, a wellknown international journal introduced changes in its editorial policy for improving its “impact factor” (5)
Summary
The use of the “impact factor” Journal Citation Reports (JCR) from the Science Citation Index (SCI) published by the Institute of Scientific Information (ISI) (1) as an indicator of scientific journal excellence is becoming increasingly generalized. In Brazil, this index is being used as a parameter in judgments carried out by financing agencies supporting scientific research and evaluating graduate programs and by educational and research institutions when selecting their scientific personnel (2). Some aspects related to the indiscriminate use of the “impact factor” have been discussed elsewhere, such as its use without the evaluation of its reach, as well as its limitations for comparing scientific production among the various areas of knowledge (3,4). A new proposal with the objective of establishing a more practical and rational use for this index is presented in order to prevent distortions in judgments where its use is appropriate
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