The Comparison of Digitalization Based on Innovation or Economic Development Through Bibliometric Analysis Between Asian Countries and European Countries

Abstract

Countries worldwide are undergoing a rapid digitalization and innovation to create smarter and more sustainable urban environments. This study explores the progress made in this regard by comparing the efforts of Asian countries and Europe through bibliometric analysis. The analysis focuses on one main area: digitalization based on economic development or innovation, and three sub-areas: smart city, digitalization in accounting, green innovation, and green economic development. These sub-areas are chosen based on their impact on both economic and financial development. Using a range of bibliometric indicators, including publication output, citation impact, and collaboration patterns, this study compares the performance of Asian countries and Europe in these areas. This study covers publications between 1997–2023 collected from the Web of Science and not restricted to only Asian and European countries. The results reveal interesting insights into the progress of both regions. While Asian countries, such as China and South Korea, have made significant strides in innovation and digitalization, the United Kingdom, Sweden, and some countries from Europe have been at the forefront of smart city development. The study also highlights the challenges faced by both regions in creating smart cities. Overall, this study concludes that bibliometric analysis provides a valuable tool for comparing the progress made by different regions and illustrates the significance of these areas in the past, present, and future. By identifying areas of strength and weakness, public and private sectors can better understand the challenges they face and develop more effective strategies.