Study and Analysis of Data in Scientific Organisations: Bibliometric Analysis and Science Mapping

Among quantitative approaches to literature reviews, bibliometrics can provide a structured analysis and present an overview of a large body of information, with the aim of identifying trends over time and topics investigated, identifying the boundaries of disciplines, detecting the most prolific researchers and institutions, and presenting the results.

Science maps, in turn, are a tool for studying and representing the structure and dynamics of a field of knowledge.

Bibliometric analysis is carried out at a specific point in time to provide a static picture of the field of knowledge at that moment. It can also be divided into multiple periods to understand its development over time.

The workflow consists of five stages:

1. Study design. Defining the research questions and selecting the appropriate bibliometric methods to answer them. For example: (a) identifying the knowledge base of a topic or research field, as well as its intellectual structure; (b) examining the research front or conceptual structure of a topic or research field; or (c) generating the social network structure of a particular scientific community.
2. Data collection. Selecting the database or databases, filtering the set of documents, and exporting the data to create a database.
3. Data analysis. Using one or more statistical software tools (e.g. SPSS) or software specifically designed for bibliometric analysis (e.g. VOSviewer).
4. Data visualisation. Deciding how to visualise the results of the data analysis and using appropriate mapping software.
5. Interpretation.

Based on the concept of Data-Driven Decision-Making (decision-making based on data), this proposal makes it possible to obtain a measurable assessment of the scientific activity carried out in any topic or field of knowledge. It supports decision-making and the planning of strategic planning processes.

The cross-cutting application of bibliometric analysis is an area that is not usually offered as a consultancy service in Spain, where it tends to focus on scientific publishing. However, it can provide substantial support for business, industrial and institutional projects, helping with decision-making and the planning of strategic planning processes within companies.

We can provide a service tailored to clients’ needs, starting with the identification of data, followed by the application of relevant analytical indicators and the preparation of reports presenting scientific evidence to support final decision-making.

It can be applied in any business, industrial or institutional sector.

Beatriz Martín del Río – Behavioural Sciences and Health