A bibliometric analysis of the fuzzy front-end of innovation using the HistCite software

Abstract

Abstract: The number of academic papers addressing the fuzzy front-end (FFE) of innovation has increased over the last years, confirming the importance of this research field. This paper presents the outcomes of a bibliometric analysis of the literature related to FFE that was published between 1985 and 2013. The HistCite software was the tool used to implement the analysis. The results show the number of papers published per year, the most important journals, and the most cited papers. Most of the studies reviewed in this article applied empirical research methods, and the number of research topics have increased in this period. This study provides a preliminary bibliometric and thematic analysis of the FFE literature, identifying research perspectives. Keywords: front-end, innovation, bibliometric, literature review. 1.