A Systematic Analysis and Review of Researcher Identification Number Systems

Advancements in information technology and electronic publishing have facilitated the rapid production and dissemination of digital materials, whereas the growth of online academic information services has enhanced researchers' access to scholarly articles and improved research efficiency. However, the issue of researcher identification remains a significant concern. This study explores the necessity and objectives of researcher identification numbers and analyzes nine prominent systems in South Korea and other countries. These findings highlight the diversity of the identification systems, including the Korean National Researcher Identifier (IRIS), International Standard Name Identifier (ISNI), ORCID, VIAF, Web of Science Researcher ID, Scopus Author Identifier, SSRN Author ID, RePEc Short-ID, and DBLP Author ID, outlining their features and limitations. The study concludes that identification numbers play a key role in addressing homonym issues and ensuring the accurate attribution of research outcomes; however, their integration and usage must consider system differences. Additionally, research support organizations, such as medical libraries, should provide guidance and training to help researchers effectively register and utilize these identifiers. By systematically analyzing the current landscape of researcher identification systems, this study aimed to enhance the interconnectivity and scholarly impact of the global research ecosystem. [J Korean Med Libr Assoc 2024;51(1):34-40]