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Exploring Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) Applications in Banking: A Bibliometric Study

Author

Listed:
  • Mijoč Ivo

    (Josip Juraj Strossmayer University of Osijek, Faculty of Economics, Croatia)

  • Briš Martina

    (Josip Juraj Strossmayer University of Osijek, Faculty of Economics, Croatia)

  • Karačić Domagoj

    (Josip Juraj Strossmayer University of Osijek, Faculty of Economics, Croatia)

Abstract

Background A bibliometric analysis was conducted to investigate the prevalence of the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) in academic studies, revealing it to be one of the most widely used methods in multi-criteria decision-making. The AHP structures complex decisions in a hierarchy, facilitating the evaluation of multiple criteria and alternatives. This approach is particularly valuable in situations where quantitative methods are not always applicable or sufficient. Objectives The main aim of this study is to assess the extent of research development on this topic at global and national levels using various performance indicators. Methods/Approach The WoS database was used to obtain the required data. The search revealed 286 research publications on “AHP and banking”, of which 79 were analysed to illustrate the potential applications of AHP and hybrid methods. Results The analysis provided a qualitative assessment of bibliometric indicators, highlighting existing trends and future research directions for the (r)evolution of academic progress. According to the selected fields of analysis, a gradual increase in the number of citations, published papers, and research on vertical and horizontal topics within the banking sector was observed. Conclusions The main contribution of this paper is the identification of new research foci and the filling of unresolved gaps in the academic literature. The evidence suggests that the effectiveness of the AHP method has stimulated the development of related research. Future papers should further elaborate on the proposed research areas in collaboration with other disciplines to create a robust research programme and foster innovations.

Suggested Citation

  • Mijoč Ivo & Briš Martina & Karačić Domagoj, 2025. "Exploring Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) Applications in Banking: A Bibliometric Study," Business Systems Research, Sciendo, vol. 16(2), pages 296-324.
    • Handle: RePEc:bit:bsrysr:v:16:y:2025:i:2:p:296-324:n:1014
    DOI: 10.2478/bsrj-2025-0029
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    JEL classification:

    • C44 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - Econometric and Statistical Methods: Special Topics - - - Operations Research; Statistical Decision Theory
    • C61 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - Mathematical Methods; Programming Models; Mathematical and Simulation Modeling - - - Optimization Techniques; Programming Models; Dynamic Analysis
    • G21 - Financial Economics - - Financial Institutions and Services - - - Banks; Other Depository Institutions; Micro Finance Institutions; Mortgages
    • M15 - Business Administration and Business Economics; Marketing; Accounting; Personnel Economics - - Business Administration - - - IT Management

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