DOI vs ISBN
DOI (Digital Object Identifier) and ISBN (International Standard Book Number) are both unique identifiers used to distinguish and track publications, but they serve different purposes and are used in different contexts. DOI is primarily used for digital content, particularly academic articles, research papers, and datasets. It provides a permanent, stable link to a specific digital object, ensuring long-term access, even if the URL or web location changes. DOIs are crucial for academic citation, ensuring that research can be accurately referenced and accessed over time. ISBN, on the other hand, is used to identify physical books and certain types of publications, like e-books. It is assigned to a specific edition, format, and language of a book. ISBNs help in the efficient cataloging, distribution, and sales of books in libraries, bookstores, and online platforms. In short, DOIs are used for digital content (mainly academic), while ISBNs are used for books and other print publications.
