The Use of Research Funding Databases for Research Assessment Information Systems

Abstract

The information needs of researchers and policy makers on the performance of research institutions are seldom limited to information from one source, which usually covers an isolated perspective from a particular region or sector of science. This paper introduces the development of indicators suitable for the representation of research activities and achievements based on heterogeneous research funding databases. Thus it becomes possible to assess research institutions from different points of view. Furthermore, the uses and opportunities for the integration into research assessment information systems are exemplified. The explanations refer to the experiences of the DFG. In the scope of the DFG Funding Ranking and its objective of assessing research structures in the German higher education system, information from various research infrastructure and funding databases is consolidated and subsequently used for the derivation of research indicators and the implementation into public information systems.