RESEARCH PAPERS

Policy Citation: Analytical Methods, Application Framework, and Implications

  • Liu Leilei ,
  • Ba Zhichao ,
  • Pei Lei
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  • 1 Research Institute for Data Management & Innovation, Nanjing University, Suzhou 215163;
    2 School of Information Management, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210023
Liu Leilei, Doctoral Candidate; Ba Zhichao, Research Fellow, Doctoral Supervisor, Corresponding Author, E-mail: bazhichaoty@nju.edu.cn; Pei Lei, Professor, Doctoral Supervisor.

Received date: 2025-07-03

  Revised date: 2025-09-09

  Online published: 2026-09-08

Supported by

This work is supported by the National Social Science Fund of China key project titled “Innovation and Application of Information Analysis Methods Based on Digital Intelligence Integration” (No. 22&ZD326).

Abstract

[Purpose/Significance] This study aims to provide methodological support for uncovering policy-relevant knowledge and illuminating the underlying mechanisms of policy processes, thereby advancing evidence-informed and scientific governmental decision-making. [Method/Process] Firstly, the conceptual connotations of policy citation are systematically reviewed, with an analysis of its practical manifestations and contextualized functions in policy documents, as well as its methodological framework as an analytical tool. Secondly, a policy process analysis framework is constructed from the perspective of policy citation, elucidating in detail its embedded pathways across the full policy lifecycle, including agenda setting and evolution, policy design and formulation, policy diffusion and implementation, and policy evaluation and optimization. Finally, the potential applications and future development directions of policy citation analysis are discussed. [Result/Conclusion] This study provides a novel methodological system for understanding the dynamic patterns and intrinsic characteristics of policy processes. It further expands the application scope of citation analysis methods in evidence-based policy-making, and supports high-quality, transparent, and sustainable policy formulation and governance practices.

Cite this article

Liu Leilei , Ba Zhichao , Pei Lei . Policy Citation: Analytical Methods, Application Framework, and Implications[J]. Library and Information Service, 2026 , 70(18) : 23 -37 . DOI: 10.13266/j.issn.0252-3116.2026.18.002

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