An ORCID is a persistent digital identifier that distinguishes authors from every other researcher, using a 16-digit code, e.g.  https://orcid.org/0000-0002-3843-3472.

Unique identification is particularly important when a researcher’s citations are assessed. If there is any confusion about an author’s details then the citations are separated, e.g. JA Smith, John Smith, J Smith. Citation counters will interpret these formats as three different people. Using an ORCID will automatically group all this individuals research together. 

The National Research Foundation (NRF) in South Africa requires that all researchers and students applying for funding and rating at the NRF have an ORCID identifier. This allows them to uniquely identify themselves as the author of their work across all systems integrated with the ORCID registry. 

To obtain your unique ORCID identifier, register now at https://ORCID.org/register. 

The process is simple and takes less than a minute.

Sources: 

• https://orcid.org/ 

• https://www.nrf.ac.za/document/06-nrf-statement-orcid