The relevance of resource differences for research performance assessments: A contribution to the discussion within economics in Germany; [Zur Relevanz von Ausstattungsunterschieden für Forschungsleistungsvergleiche: Ein Diskussionsbeitrag für die Wirtschaftswissenschaften in Deutschland]

Abstract

Research performance is not independent of the given conditions. However, performance comparisons often disregard these conditions. On the basis of personnel and financial resources provided by the government, we identify four groups of economics departments in Germany. For these groups, we compare doctoral degrees awarded, third-party funding, publications and the position in the ranking of the platform Research Papers in Economics (RePEc) as common research performance indicators. The results confirm, as expected, correlations between inputs and outputs. The endowment of professorships with scientific staff is particularly important. Top publications and high RePEc ranks are found mostly at larger departments with younger professors. Other departments nevertheless conduct highly cited research. The analysis underlines the necessity of differentiating in performance assessments and intends to encourage discussions on the further development of economics in Germany.