A comprehensive bibliometric study of the balanced scorecard

Abstract

This research provides a deeper knowledge in the Balanced Scorecard (BSC) insight by using the bibliometric technique. The existing gap between the traditional literatura reviews and previous bibliometric studies, is covered as it is the first comprehensive analysis carried out in applying quantity, quality, and structural indicators. Web of Science Core Collection was used as the source of information, considering it the most accurate and suitable data base for these studies. This research covers the wider period-of-time possible, from 1992 to 2020, with a final sample of 771 articles in 466 reviews. Quantity indicators show the high interest that the BSC still has in the scholar’s community, pointing out Kaplan and Norton as the most productive authors,and confirming that ‘management’, ‘business’ and ‘accountability’ are its most common field of activity, although others as ‘systems’ and sustainability’ are coming to prominence; ‘Balanced Scorecard’ appears as the most remarkable keyword. Quality indicators found 32,706 citations, with Kaplan and Norton occupying again top positions as well as ‘Harvard Business Review’ as the most impacting review both in cited articles and in average. Co-citation analysis reveals the existence of a triple corecluster for articles, based on the theory, literature reviews, and case-studies.