Quality and Knowledge Contributions of MISQ: A Citation Analysis

Abstract

This study uses citation analysis to assess the quality of MIS Quarterly and compares this assessment to journals of other disciplines. The study also investigates the knowledge contributions of MIS Quarterly to the publications in both information systems and other disciplines. Some 3497 citations were made to 251 articles published in MIS Quarterly during 1989-1998. The study results show that the quality of MIS Quarterly is commensurate with its intended role as a general journal of the specialty IS area. MIS Quarterly ranks favorably when compared to specialty journals and respectably among general journals of specific disciplines. Moreover, most research appearing in MIS Quarterly is used by researchers in various disciplines and, thus, contributes to advancing the body of knowledge.