Mapping the Evolution of Tourism Small and Medium Enterprises’ Technology Adoption

Tichaawa, Tembi M. and Chamboko-Mpotaringa, Mavis (2025) Mapping the Evolution of Tourism Small and Medium Enterprises’ Technology Adoption. MODERN GEOGRÁFIA, 20 (4). pp. 141-164. ISSN 2062-1655

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Abstract

This study aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the evolution of research on tourism small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and to outline future research directions for advancing the field. The study systematically reviewed 102 empirical articles, utilising a hybrid review approach that integrates the Scientific Procedures and Rationales for Systematic Literature Reviews (SPAR-4- SLR) guidelines with bibliometric theoretical frameworks. It also employed the Bibliometrix package in R for science mapping analysis. The findings indicate a rapid growth in research on the technology adoption of tourism SMEs over time. Thematic evolution mapping identified nine distinct themes, such as digital transformation, innovation, and marketing, thereby highlighting key trends within the research field. The study revealed theoretical, contextual, and methodological gaps in existing research and made recommendations for future research directions. By combining bibliometric methods with a longitudinal thematic evolution analysis of technology adoption among tourism SMEs, this study identifies future research avenues and practical strategies to inform stakeholders and policymakers in the tourism SME sector.

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