Sustainable Digital Transformation in Business: A Vosviewer-Based Analysis of Research Trends and Knowledge Structures

Abstract

This study examines the evolution and intellectual structure of research on sustainable digital transformation in business systems, focusing on key trends, thematic clusters, and emerging directions at the intersection of digitalization and sustainability. A bibliometric analysis was conducted using data extracted from the Scopus database for the period 2010–2025. After applying explicit filtering criteria related to document type, language, subject area, publication period, and topical relevance, a final dataset of publications was analyzed. VOSviewer was used to perform co-occurrence, co-citation, and keyword network analyses, enabling the identification of major research clusters and thematic linkages. The results indicate a rapidly expanding field structured around digital transformation strategies, sustainable business models, artificial intelligence applications, circular economy integration, and governance mechanisms supporting sustainability transitions. The analysis shows a gradual shift from technology-centered digitalization toward integrated frameworks combining innovation with environmental and social sustainability objectives. The study contributes by providing a systematic map of the knowledge structure of sustainable digital transformation and by consolidating fragmented research streams. The findings offer useful insights for managers, policymakers, and researchers interested in integrating digital technologies into resilient and sustainable business models.