Regularity in the research output of individual scientists: An empirical analysis by recent bibliometric tools

This paper proposes an empirical analysis of several scientists based on their time regularity, defined as the ability of generating an active and stable research output over time, in terms of both quantity/publications and impact/citations. In particular, we empirically analyse three recent bibliometric tools to perform qualitative/quantitative evaluations under the new perspective of regularity. These tools are respectively (1) the PY/CY diagram, (2) the publication/citation Ferrers diagram and triad indicators, and (3) a year-by-year comparison of the scientists’ output (Borda's ranking). Results of the regularity analysis are then compared with those obtained under the classical perspective of overall production.The proposed evaluation tools can be applied to competitive examinations for research position/promotion, as complementary instruments to the commonly adopted bibliometric techniques.

► Regularity is defined as the ability of generating an active and stable research output over time.
► Three recent bibliometric tools to evaluate regularity are empirically analysed.
► Results of regularity analysis are compared with those under the perspective of overall production.
► Regularity analysis is complementary to the commonly adopted bibliometric techniques.
► The proposed tools can be applied to competitive examinations for research position/promotion.