Information Research Communications

Mapping the Scientific Research of Artificial Neural Networks (ANN) in Business Sciences: A Bibliometric Analysis and Future Research Avenues

Meryem Ayad, Said EL Mezouari

Artificial Neural Networks (ANNs) have emerged as important analytical tools in business research, with applications across accounting, finance, marketing, human resource management, entrepreneurship, and corporate social responsibility. However, previous studies have not provided an integrated mapping of ANN applications across these six major business domains. This study addresses this gap through a bibliometric analysis of 168 Scopus-indexed documents published between 2007 and 2025. Using Bibliometrix, Biblioshiny, and VOSviewer, the study examines publication trends, research performance, and intellectual structures. The dataset includes 145 sources and 479 authors, showing an annual growth rate of 16.45%. Results reveal eight thematic clusters, with commerce and finance and decision-support research identified as key motor themes. Co-citation analysis highlights three intellectual communities: technical ANN, behavioral management, and SEM-ANN hybrid research. The study provides an evidence-based overview of ANN evolution, structure, and future research directions in business sciences.