The growing reliance on bibliometric indicators in research evaluation has generated increasing criticism, both from the academic community and recent European initiatives advocating more holistic, peer review–centered approaches. This paper addresses the urgent need for responsible and contextualised use of such metrics. Rather than rejecting bibliometrics completely, we propose a conceptual framework that supports the appropriate application of bibliometric indicators, tailored to the goals, disciplinary contexts, and levels of analysis involved. This framework promotes a balanced approach, valuing transparency, interpretive care, and ethical use of quantitative indicators within broader evaluation systems. The paper, interpreting and substantiating CoARA (2022)’s claims, emphasises the integration of metrics with qualitative assessments to ensure academic integrity and societal relevance. It calls for shared protocols, cross-sector collaboration, and recognition of disciplinary diversity to ensure indicators inform rather than disappear from research assessment or dominate research assessment.
Daraio et al. (Thu,) studied this question.