Chapter 8 FOAF Within UK Academic Web Space: A Webometric Analysis of the Semantic Web

Purpose – To investigate the potential of the semantic web as a source of information about social networks within academia, as well as more widely for webometric investigations. Methodology – The functionality of five semantic search engines were analyzed to determine their suitability for webometric investigations, with the most suitable, Sindice.com, then being used to investigate the use of Friend of a Friend (FOAF) within UK academic web space. Findings – In comparison to the web of documents, the semantic web is still a small part of online content. Even the well-established FOAF social vocabulary was not found on the majority of academic web sites, let alone being found to represent the majority of academics, and provided little indication of social networks between institutions. Nonetheless from a webometric perspective the study does show the potential of a semantic web for a far wider range of webometric investigations, and demonstrates that, unlike the traditional web, there are currently useful tools available. Implications – Having established that there are appropriate tools available for webometric investigations of the semantic web, and acknowledging the potential of the semantic web for far more detailed webometric investigations, there is a need for additional studies to determine the specific strengths and limitations of the tools that are available, and investigate those areas where webometric investigations can provide the most useful insights. Originality/value – The research applies established webometric methodologies to the social semantic web, demonstrating the potential of a whole new area for future webometric investigation.