Design Thinking in Business: A Bibliometric Analysis and Research Agenda

Abstract

This study explores the intellectual landscape, developmental trajectory, and emerging themes of design thinking (DT) in business contexts through a bibliometric analysis of 604 Scopus-indexed articles published between 2003 and 2024. Utilizing VOSviewer software, the study applies descriptive statistics, co-authorship network analysis, and keyword co-occurrence mapping to uncover key patterns. Findings indicate a growing scholarly interest in DT; however, the field remains theoretically diverse and empirically fragmented, with limited international collaboration and considerable methodological heterogeneity. Core thematic clusters include innovation management, user-centered design, and organizational change. Despite the conceptual richness, this fragmentation may hinder the formation of a coherent understanding of DT’s contribution to enterprise performance, innovation capability, and strategic advantage. By charting thematic evolution and identifying underexplored areas, this study not only maps the current research terrain but also proposes a strategic research agenda aimed at integrating DT into business theory and practice. The roadmap is intended to guide future investigations toward a deeper, more actionable understanding of how design thinking enhances organizational effectiveness and drives sustained innovation in varied business environments.