Using Google™ to track and improve your research impact

A simple, text logo with an empty search box on a plain, white background: the Google homepage is instantly recognisable by millions of internet users. But behind its simplicity lies a set of sophisticated search tools and ‘tags’ that can help you find the information you are looking for more efficiently. If you are a researcher, you will undoubtedly be familiar with Google’s simple search box. Behind its simplicity, Google also offers you a range of opportunities to report on and track the impact you and your work are having. For instance, Google will help you ascertain: how visible your research is online; how often your work is cited and determine whether your findings are being reported in the news, on blogs or discussion boards? This guide has been produced to help you use Google to answer these, and other key questions about your research impact.