Impact of Non-Scientific Factors on Publication Quality

This research article investigates the role of non-scientific factors in determining the scholarly impact of scientific publications. It evaluates the interplay between intrinsic quality, assessed through peer review, and external attributes influencing publication impact. Utilizing data from the first Italian Research Assessment Exercise (VTR 2001–2003) and Web of Science citations, the analysis focuses on the relationship between quality scores, non-scientific features, and both short- and long-term impact of research outputs. The findings aim to provide insights for policymakers and research management in selecting evaluation methodologies that encompass both quality and impact. The document outlines the debate surrounding research assessment methodologies, detailing the pros and cons of peer review versus bibliometric techniques. It highlights the significance of considering non-scientific factors that may affect scholarly impact, thus contributing to a more comprehensive understanding of the evaluation processes in public research organizations.