Longitudinal Exploratory Citation Network Analysis : An Atlas-Based Methodology

An exploratory methodology is presented whose outputs coherently combine to facilitate initial systemic orientation through any one citation network, inform the choice and interpretation of subsequent analyses, and facilitate comparative studies between multiple citation networks. The methodology is geared toward the construction of network atlases and is presented in a manner that is comprehensible and practicable to those who are not experts in the field of citation networks but who have an interest in developing such networks within their own disciplines the better to understand them. The methodology contributes innovative analytical dimensions to exploratory citation analysis