Alternative metrics provide an alternative for measuring impact at the article level. Looking at alternative metrics (altmetrics) shows you a quicker image of the conversations taking place around your research. It also provides a broader view of the impact your research is making, as altmetrics data can help you understand how your research is being interacted with by the public, government, policymakers, and other researchers. Alternative metrics include social media shares, blog posts, and numbers of downloads and views.
Not all articles will have alternative metrics, but if your article does, you will see something similar to the image below. Depending on the database and what almetrics they use, this will vary. No matter the altmetrics, you will see the impact of your research faster than traditional metrics like impact factors.
Learn more about altmetrics and how to track your altmetrics in our library guide.
