Mapping the field of smart specialisation and regional innovation strategy literature – a bibliometric analysis

Abstract

Purpose: The purpose of the article was to determine and map the field of smart specialisation (SS) and regional innovation strategy (RIS) literature. Design/Methodology/Approach: The longitudinal bibliometric analysis of the SS and RIS literature based on extensive examination of publications indexed in the Scopus database was conducted. The timespan of the analysis covered the years 1991-2020. The quantity, quality and structural bibliometric indicators were applied. Using the VOSviewer software tool the network analyses were performed and major clusters of the SS and RIS research were determined. Findings: The conducted analysis made it possible to indicate the most productive authors, sources, organisations and countries in the analysed scientific field. The most popular research topics and subject areas, the most influential research channels and impact from authors, sources, countries in the SS and RIS literature were indicated. Moreover, it was recognised how the SS and RIS publications are clustered. Practical Implications: Determination of sources with the highest productivity and citations can be used by potential authors of publications to adopt an appropriate publication strategy. The information about the most active countries and organisations and the most influential authors may constitute the valuable basis for establishing future collaboration. The analysis results can also be useful for decision-makers in regions by indicating the most influential publications in terms of the SS and RIS development and implementation. Originality/Value: There is a paucity of research presenting the bibliometric analysis of the SS and RIS literature. This article comprises an up-to-date comprehensive analysis of this domain and enriches the understanding of its existing patterns and trends.