Relational bibliometrics for hospitality and tourism research: A best practice guide

Abstract

Noting the growing literature on relational bibliometrics and prevailing methodological challenges in hospitality and tourism research – inadequate bibliometric-focused structure and methodological transparency – this study contributes to knowledge about applicable analytical procedures. The authors uncover methodological issues by content analyzing 85 relational bibliometric articles published in 19 hospitality and tourism journals. The findings provide a basis for best practice recommendations. Four guiding principles are proposed for the scholarly deployment of relational bibliometrics, namely: (1) using multiple relational techniques to ensure a rich and comprehensive coverage of the pertinent field, (2) providing sufficient methodological disclosure, particularly language selection, data extraction from the applicable sampling, data cleaning and supplemental materials provided, (3) following a best practice work flow, including relational study methodologies, and (4) ensuring methodological adherence to three desired attributes – structured, comprehensive and transparent. The latter can potentially improve the thoroughness, clarity, and trustworthiness of future studies. The study concludes with a discussion of the findings, and a future research agenda which presents significant insights offering encouragement for bibliometric analyses, as well as acknowledging potential limitations.