A Bibliometric Analysis of Scientific Production on the Balanced Scorecard

Abstract

This study updates the existing knowledge on the Balanced Scorecard (BSC) through a bibliometric analysis, providing a comprehensive review of the scientific literature on the topic. The main objective is to refresh previous bibliometric research by examining the volume, quality, and structure of publications related to BSC. Data were collected from Scopus and Web of Science—two databases known for their accuracy and reliability—covering articles published from 1992, the year BSC was introduced, through January 2025. The final sample includes 2,215 articles from Scopus and 2,427 from Web of Science. The findings reveal a growing academic interest in BSC, reflected in an increasingly broad and diverse body of literature. Kaplan and Norton are identified as the most prolific authors, while the United States leads in terms of the number of publications and citations. “Balanced Scorecard” is the most frequently used keyword in this field. This study extends previous bibliometric analyses by incorporating more recent data and a wider set of indicators, which helps to identify emerging trends and developments in BSC research. However, the analysis is limited to articles indexed in Scopus and Web of Science, which may exclude relevant contributions from other sources. From a practical perspective, the research offers valuable insights into key contributors and emerging trends, guiding future research and applications of BSC in performance management. On a societal level, it underscores the BSC’s potential to enhance organizational performance and decision-making processes, contributing to improved efficiency and effectiveness across various sectors.