Bibliometric Review of Smart Factory Transformation in Managerial Perspective

This study synthesizes the global research on smart factory transformation from a managerial perspective by examining publication trends, thematic clusters, and content structures across four categories: transformation impacts, influencing factors, barriers and maturity models. A mixed-method literature review was employed, combining bibliometric analysis with qualitative content analysis in accordance with PRISMA guidelines. A comprehensive search of the Scopus database identified 154 English studies published between 2015 and 2024 that address managerial aspects of smart factory transformation. Results show a rapidly expanding scholarly interest, peaking at 34 publications in 2024. Research activities are concentrated in Asia, North America, and Europe, with China and India emerging as dominant contributors. Despite increasing volume, the content analysis reveals highly fragmented knowledge, particularly concerning the prioritization of managerial decisions, sequencing of transformation activities, and integration of strategic, technological and organizational dimensions. For practitioners and policymakers, the findings underscore the need for a holistic, goal-oriented framework to support transformation governance.