From indexation policies through citation networks to normalized citation impacts: Web of Science, Scopus, and Dimensions as varying resonance chambers

Abstract Dimensions was introduced as an alternative bibliometric database to the well-established Web of Science (WoS) and Scopus, however all three databases have fundamental differences in coverage content, resultant from their owners’ indexation philosophies. In light these differences, we explore here, using a citation network analysis assessment normalized impact overlapping publications indexed databases, whether offer structurally different perspectives landscape or if they are essentially homogenous substitutes. Our core exclusive 2016–2018 revealed large set that highly self-referential. comparison, each selected appeared hold similarly low levels relevance one another, with slightly more internal communication between Scopus than WoS. comparison citations for 41,848 found German sectors were valuated impactful compared WoS, particularly applied research focus. We conclude do present perspectives, although additional circle vary base research-focused WoS another.