Exploring the Nexus of RFID and Industry 4.0: Bibliometric Analysis to Investigate the Strategic Themes and Thematic Evolution

Purpose: This article aims to identify themes associated with RFID technologies (Radio Frequency Identification) and industry 4.0. Using key articles from the database developed for this study, the main themes underlying key technology features and their relationships will be uncovered.Design/methodology/approach: Systematic quantitative literature review is conducted to uncover hidden relationships between RFID and industry 4.0. The research methodology encompasses a systematic analysis of pertinent literature and resources, employing a structured approach to identify and categorize crucial topics and keywords that constitute the basis for our exploration. Subsequently, we delve into the relationships within these identified dimensions, aiming to synthesize a holistic interpretation of the connections between RFID and Industry 4.0.Findings: Through our rigorous analytical process, we have unveiled significant attributes embedded within the three delineated dimensions. These findings contribute to our capacity to construct a synoptic depiction that encapsulates all relevant associations between RFID technology and the Industry 4.0 paradigm. The synthesis of relationships between Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology and the Industry 4.0 framework, derived from our analysis of pivotal dimensions and keywords, offers a profound insight into the intricate interplay between these domains. As industries continue to evolve in the wake of technological advancements, this study contributes to the foundation of knowledge necessary to navigate the dynamic landscape of modern industrial systems.Research limitations/implications: Bibliometric network analysis offers a systematic approach to literature review, aiding researchers in identifying seminal works, influential authors, and emerging trends within a field. By visualizing the relationships between authors, journals, and keywords, bibliometric network analysis facilitates the mapping of academic disciplines, enabling researchers to comprehend the intellectual landscape. Network analysis highlights potential collaboration opportunities by revealing clusters of authors or institutions with closely related research interests and specific works related industry 4.0 and RFID, was not found, however, being a potential limitation, it proved to be a way to maintain the originality and necessity of this work we are presenting.Practical implications: The practical employs bibliometric research to explore the synergy between Industry 4.0 and Radio Frequency Identification (RFID), aiming to provide a comprehensive understanding and practical applicability of these interconnected themes. The study's findings offer practical implications such as facilitating technology integration, optimizing operations, guiding investment decisions, fostering collaborations, informing policy-making, supporting professional development, and enabling knowledge dissemination. These insights underscore the tangible real-world impact of academic research in enhancing industry practices and driving innovation within the context of Industry 4.0 and RFID integration.Originality/value: This study stands as one of the pioneering works to delineate the themes linked with both Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technologies and the Industry 4.0 paradigm.