Mapping the Intellectual Landscape of Digital Transformation in Manufacturing: A Bibliometric Analysis

Sheng Jiang

doi:10.71222/fbbrje67

Authors

Sheng Jiang The University of Manchester, Manchester, Greater Manchester, United Kingdom Author

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.71222/fbbrje67

Keywords:

digital transformation, advanced manufacturing technologies, manufacturing sector, bibliometric analysis, Industry 4.0, Industry 5.0

Abstract

Driven by advanced manufacturing technologies (AMTs) and the evolving frameworks of Industry 4.0 and Industry 5.0, the manufacturing sector is experiencing a swift digital transformation. Despite significant growth in related research, a comprehensive synthesis of its intellectual landscape is still lacking. To address this gap, the present study applies a large–scale bibliometric approach, analysing 4,949 peer–reviewed articles from the Web of Science Core Collection with the aid of CiteSpace, HistCite, and VOSviewer, aiming to delineate research trends, thematic groupings, and collaboration patterns. The results show a sharp increase in publications after 2017, with growing attention to cyber–physical systems, digital supply networks, servitisation, and sustainability. Co–citation and keyword analyses reveal a shift from technology–focused studies toward integrated, human–centric, and value–oriented digital strategies. The analysis further highlights fragmented collaboration patterns and underexplored thematic linkages, indicating opportunities for interdisciplinary and international research. Overall, this study provides a structured, data–driven overview of the field and offers insights to support both future research and managerial decision–making in manufacturing digital transformation.

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