The San Francisco Declaration on Research Assessment, or DORA, is celebrating its 12th birthday in a big way – by launching a new practical guide to responsible research assessment. This guide is a valuable resource for researchers, institutions, and funders who are committed to promoting responsible and ethical practices in research assessment.
DORA was founded in 2012 by a group of editors and publishers of scholarly journals, along with scientific societies and organizations, who were concerned about the negative impact of the misuse of research metrics on the scientific community. The declaration aims to improve the way research is evaluated and to shift the focus from quantity to quality. DORA has gained widespread support from the scientific community, with over 20,000 individuals and organizations signing the declaration.
The new practical guide, titled “A Practical Guide to Responsible Research Assessment,” is a comprehensive resource that provides practical steps and recommendations for implementing responsible research assessment practices. The guide covers a wide range of topics, including the use of metrics in hiring, promotion, and funding decisions, as well as the responsible use of journal impact factors and other metrics in evaluating research.
One of the key principles of the guide is the need for a holistic approach to research assessment. This means taking into account a variety of factors, such as the quality and impact of the research, the context in which it was conducted, and the individual researcher’s contributions. The guide also emphasizes the importance of using multiple indicators and qualitative measures, rather than relying solely on quantitative metrics, to assess research.
Another important aspect of the guide is its focus on responsible and ethical practices in research assessment. This includes avoiding the use of metrics that can be easily manipulated, such as journal impact factors, and ensuring that assessment processes are transparent and fair. The guide also encourages researchers and institutions to engage in ongoing discussions and evaluations of their assessment practices to continuously improve and adapt them to changing needs.
The launch of this practical guide is a significant milestone for DORA and the scientific community as a whole. It is a testament to the growing recognition of the need for responsible research assessment practices and the commitment of individuals and organizations to promoting them. The guide provides a much-needed resource for researchers, institutions, and funders who are looking to improve their assessment processes and promote a culture of responsible research.
The guide has already received positive feedback from the scientific community, with many individuals and organizations expressing their support and appreciation for this valuable resource. It has also been endorsed by prominent organizations such as the European Commission and the European University Association.
In addition to the practical guide, DORA has also launched a new website to serve as a hub for resources and information on responsible research assessment. The website includes case studies, tools, and best practices from institutions and organizations around the world, as well as a forum for discussions and collaborations.
As we celebrate DORA’s 12th birthday, we can look back at the significant progress that has been made in promoting responsible research assessment practices. However, there is still much work to be done, and the launch of this practical guide is a step in the right direction. It is a call to action for all stakeholders in the scientific community to come together and work towards a more responsible and ethical approach to research assessment.
In conclusion, the launch of “A Practical Guide to Responsible Research Assessment” by DORA is a cause for celebration and a significant step towards promoting responsible research practices. This guide provides a valuable resource for researchers, institutions, and funders, and serves as a reminder of the importance of responsible and ethical practices in research assessment. Let us all join hands and continue to support DORA’s mission to improve the way research is evaluated and to create a more equitable and sustainable research environment.
