Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

Feature	Description	Additional Details	Example
What is it?	A unique, persistent identifier for digital objects, acting as a permanent web address.	Also known as "Digital Object Identifier".	10.1086/679716
Purpose	- Ensures long-term access: Even if online locations change, DOIs provide lasting access.	- Simplifies citing and sharing: DOIs act as universal references for scholars and researchers.	- Enhances discoverability: DOIs make online resources easy to find through search engines and databases.
Scope	Wide range of digital objects, including:	- Scholarly articles: journals, books, book chapters	- Research data and datasets
Structure	- Prefix: Usually "10.", identifying the DOI system.	- Suffix: Assigned by a registration agency, specific to the object.	- Separator: Slash (/) dividing prefix and suffix.
Format	Often displayed as a clickable link: https://doi.org/: https://doi.org/[prefix]/[suffix]
Assignment	By authorized registration agencies recognized by the International DOI Foundation (IDF).
Benefits	- Persistent identification and linking: Guarantees lasting access and connection to the designated object.	- Accurate citation and sharing: Provides a reliable reference for scholarship and collaboration.	- Usage and impact metrics: Enables tracking downloads, views, and citations to gauge a work's reach.
Additional Information	- DOIs differ from URLs. URLs can change, while DOIs remain permanent.	- The Handle System, a distributed network, manages resolution of DOIs to their respective locations.