Co-creation of value in smart ecosystems: past trends and future directions in tourism literature

Abstract

This study aims to present a general approach for understanding and analyzing the thematic evolution of the concept of co-creation in smart environments within the tourism context. Design/methodology/approach: This study performs a co-word analysis with a longitudinal framework that produces strategic diagrams to categorize the detected themes and concepts related to co-creation. Findings: By combining the performance analysis of science mapping, the following clusters are distinguished: information technology, social media and behavior; tourism organizations, management and innovation; co-creation, technology and sharing economy; co-production and hospitality; and Smart tourism, destinations, sustainability and residents. Originality/value: This study provides a valuable tool for tourism scholars and managers to effectively analyze the importance of different themes linked to co-creation in the concept of the smart environment. This research outlines the evolving issues in and around the touchpoints and associated emerging research topics for future research.

Keywords Bibliometrics, Clusters, Co-creation, Smart ecosystems, Tourism