In scholarly bibliometrics, accuracy is paramount. An erroneous impact factor or misstated quartile can impact manuscript submission decisions and research evaluation. This policy outlines our multi-tier verification process.
Verification Protocol for Metrics
Before any journal metric is committed to our database, it must pass a three-point verification check:
- Database Cross-Check: The metric is verified directly against the source database (Web of Science JCR or Scopus CiteScore) using the journal’s official ISSN / e-ISSN identifier.
- Publisher Consistency Check: The figure is reconciled against the publisher’s official journal landing page.
- Discrepancy Logging: If a discrepancy exists between self-reported publisher data and master database records, we cite both figures and clearly explain the origin of the variance.
Handling Conflicting Data
Citation counts fluctuate as databases index new volumes or adjust citation windows. When discrepancies occur:
- We prioritize finalized annual database releases (e.g. finalized JCR year) over interim monthly snapshots unless explicitly comparing real-time trackers.
- We state the exact release year alongside every metric figure (e.g. “2025 JIF (released June 2026)”).
Reader Error Reporting Protocol
Researchers who identify potential discrepancies in cited figures are encouraged to submit a correction request. Please include the page URL, specific figure, and primary source link. Our editorial team investigates all submissions within 48 hours.
View Corrections & Errata Log → · Submit a Data Verification Query →