Alternative metrics can take many forms and may appear in many different tools. The Library provides access to some key tools that collect metrics for you, but you may also find alternative metrics in other sources.
Important note: metrics or data on outputs may not carry much weight on their own. It is important to work within your discipline norms and contextualise the data you have.
Whether your portfolio is primarily traditional outputs (for example, journals articles or book chapters) or is mainly non-traditional research outputs (for example, websites, creative works, podcasts, or software code), there are ways to collect alternative metrics. Below is a table covering some examples that you may like to explore. Note that this is not an exhaustive list. Please speak with your faculty's liaison librarian for further information or examples for your discipline area.
Important note: You may need to get some of this information from a third party.
| Research output type | Potentially useful platforms |
|---|---|
|
Traditional outputs, including journal articles, books, book chapters, and conference papers. Alternative metrics for other text based works may also be included in the suggested platforms. |
Article or output level altmetrics appearing in databases Mentions in Altmetric Explorer Policy citations in Overton Mentions in news outlets (News and Newspapers Library Guide) Metrics included in Minerva Access records Mentions in legislation, government statements, or Hansard (Access via Capital Monitor} Download data from websites (for example: ebook platforms or conference websites) Reviews of work online or in media outlets Evidence of peer-review processes or invitations to submit/present |
|
Non-traditional outputs, including (but not limited to) creative text-based or visual works, performances, recordings, compositions, software code, 3D models or designs, or research reports and policy papers. |
Mentions in Altmetric Explorer Metrics included in Melbourne Figshare records Mentions in news outlets (News and Newspapers Library Guide) Visitor numbers from venues or online activity on websites Reviews of work online or in media outlets Commissions or invitations to exhibit Online activity on sharing platforms like YouTube, Vimeo, SoundCloud, Bandcamp, or similar Download or sales data Commissions or invitations to perform or present at an event or festival |
The best way to improve your alternative metrics is to share your works using a persistent link, like a DOI. Read our tips for improving your altmetrics for more information.