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A Bibliometric Analysis of the Role of Digitalization in Achieving Sustainability-Oriented Innovation

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  • Laurențiu-Stelian Mihai

    (Faculty of Economics and Business Administration, University of Craiova, 200585 Craiova, Romania)

  • Valeri Viorel Sitnikov

    (Faculty of Economics and Business Administration, University of Craiova, 200585 Craiova, Romania)

  • Mirela Sichigea

    (Faculty of Economics and Business Administration, University of Craiova, 200585 Craiova, Romania)

  • Laura Vasilescu

    (Faculty of Economics and Business Administration, University of Craiova, 200585 Craiova, Romania)

  • Anca Băndoi

    (Faculty of Economics and Business Administration, University of Craiova, 200585 Craiova, Romania)

  • Cătălina Sitnikov

    (Faculty of Economics and Business Administration, University of Craiova, 200585 Craiova, Romania)

  • Leonardo-Geo Mănescu

    (Faculty of Electrical Engineering, University of Craiova, 200585 Craiova, Romania)

Abstract

In an era marked by rapid technological advancements, the relationships among organizational digitalization, innovation, and sustainability are receiving growing academic and managerial attention. This paper employs bibliometric analysis to examine the scientific literature on these interconnected terms, based on 775 relevant publications retrieved from the Web of Science database and analyzed using MS Excel, Bibliometrix, and VOSviewer software packages. The findings reveal a rapid increase in research on digital transformation and sustainability since 2017, with key themes including Industry 4.0, artificial intelligence, blockchain, and circular economy. However, the analysis also highlights notable conceptual fragmentation, emphasizing the need for a more integrated theoretical framework, especially in fields such as performance measurement and corporate social responsibility. From a practical standpoint, the study identifies research gaps—including CSR alignment, SME digitalization, and evaluation metrics—where organizations and policymakers continue to face challenges. These findings can support targeted capacity building, policy development, and strategic research funding aligned with sustainability-oriented innovation. By synthesizing key patterns from the literature, this study contributes to a deeper understanding of how digital transformation drives sustainable innovation, while suggesting several directions for further investigation in both academia and practice.

Suggested Citation

  • Laurențiu-Stelian Mihai & Valeri Viorel Sitnikov & Mirela Sichigea & Laura Vasilescu & Anca Băndoi & Cătălina Sitnikov & Leonardo-Geo Mănescu, 2025. "A Bibliometric Analysis of the Role of Digitalization in Achieving Sustainability-Oriented Innovation," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 17(13), pages 1-33, June.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jsusta:v:17:y:2025:i:13:p:5822-:d:1686598
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