Journal impact factors - its value and applicability in research arena

Abstract

The impact factor is based on citations of papers published by a scientific journal. The primary goal of impact factor analysis was to improve the management of library journal collections. The true value and implications of the journal impact factor are important to understand. It is critical to remember that journal impact factor can be used only to evaluate journals as a scientific basis is lacking for its use for assessment of the quality of individual papers, scientists and departments. It is not a perfect tool to measure the quality of articles but there is nothing better and it has the advantage of already being in existence and is, therefore, a good technique for scientific evaluation. Even though it has been subject of numerous controversies, especially due to certain biases around its calculation, the journal impact factor will likely be around for a long time. The present article is aimed to highlight its calculation, strengths, limitations and common flaws on its application in the research field.