Scopus is a scientific, technological, and medical database developed last year by Elsevier whose mission was to provide an easy to use literature database. Elsevier wanted something “as easy to use as Google,” but with quicker/easier access to the literature.

It provides:

• Coverage of 14,000 journal titles and 4,000 publishers, 750 conference proceedings, all journals in Medline and 400 trade publications, and e-only journals as well as all Open Access journals (approximately 531).
• Updated daily; coverage back to the mid-1960's
• Basic Search: searches the Scopus database, the web, and patent info in one search statement
• Cited by information available for articles published since 1996. As you're viewing your search results, the far right column lists the number of times this article has been cited. Clicking the link automatically displays the articles that cite the original paper.
• Links to full text can be implemented via a library’s link resolver.
• Create your own saved searches and auto-alerts for automatic notification via email of new content based on your profile.

Apparently Scopus has been very successful since its launch (June 6, 2005), it has signed its 500th customer, and more than 60 universities in the U.K. are now taking part in the introductory offer for Scopus.

Scopus has partnered with RefWorks integrating the two databases so that users can move seamlessly between the two products. Additionally Scopus is integrated with Elsevier MDL's CrossFire Commander, allowing researchers to move between text and graphical structures.

Price:
Scopus is an annual subscription based on the size of the institution and can be used by anyone who accesses the product from a subscribing institution. Remote access is possible through ID's and passwords.

For more information about Scopus check out:
Elsevier Enhances Scopus
Information Today July 18, 2005
by Paula J. Hane

Scopus Website

I invite anyone who has Scopus to give their opinions on the database. How do you like it, how do your users like it? Do you use it in conjunction with Medline or do you use it for other searches?