Analyses and studies
Thematic studies
OST has developed analyses and thematic studies. A given theme rarely corresponds exactly to an existing scientific or technological field in a specific database. Often, it is necessary to mix different sources and to rebuild relevant perimeters. In some cases, OST uses text analysis in order to study a specific theme, such as a societal challenge for example.
The constitution of a corpus of publications (or a portfolio of patents, respectively) explaining scientific production (or innovation activity, respectively) relating to a theme is carried out in close collaboration with researchers in that subject area. Relevant indicators are then constructed on the basis of that corpus of publications or patents.
Working in connexion with the Department of Research Evaluation, such a study has addressed scientific publications in archeology. Particular emphasis was placed on the location of the research studied in French archeology publications.
In the report on the scientific position of France, OST dedicated a specific chapter to mathematics. On account of the close links between mathematics and computer science, it was decided to draft a specific report dedicated to this subject area.