New uses of the institutional databases of universities: indicators of research activity

This paper explores the characteristics of the institutional databases of six universities in three European countries (Italy, Spain and Switzerland). Its aim is to test the extent to which databases can be considered valuable sources for building positioning indicators to describe different profiles of university research activities, rather than their competitive position along the single dimensions of scientific production and academic reputation. Project results support the evidence that institutional databases are social constructs, able to show a representation of the research performance of the universities, which is strongly affected by the interests of the different communities, influencing their development and evolution. Databases can also be valuable sources, when used in combination with international ones and with other information sources, to put together a broad picture of academic institutions and their scientific efforts.