Science indicators and policy analysis

Abstract

This paper discusses the use of science indicators by public policy analysts with limited time and resources. Using the example of innovation policy, it describes what kind of policy relevant propositions can be extracted from science indicators and shows the inherent limits of indicators as instruments for policy making. It shows how science indicators can and must be combined with other sources to construct alternative strategies for decision making. It closes with a discussion of the use of science indicators in constructing consistent lines of argument and reasoning for making policy and for checking past policy.