Bibliometric analysis, scientometrics and metasynthesis of Internet of Things (IoT) in smart buildings

Abstract

PurposeThe Internet of Things has made the shift to the digital era possible, even though the Architecture, Engineering and Construction (AEC) sector has not embraced nor integrated it within the core functions compared to other sectors. The need to enhance sustainable construction with the adoption of Internet of Things in this sector cannot be overemphasized. However, the real-world applications of Internet of Things in smart buildings remain relatively unexplored in the AEC sector due to several issues related to deployment and energy-saving potentials. Given these challenges, this paper proposes to identify the present state of development and research in Internet of Things and smart buildings, identify Internet of Things clusters and applications in smart buildings.Design/methodology/approachBibliometric analyses of papers from 2010 to 2023 using the Scopus database and scientometric evaluations using the VosViewer software were undertaken. The proper search keyword was identified by using the phrases “ Internet of Things” and “Smart Building”. A total of 1158 documents in all, written by 3540 different writers, representing 2285 different institutions from 97 different countries were looked at. A metasynthesis was conducted and a system of Internet of Things applications in a smart building is illustrated.FindingsThe development of IoT and Smart Buildings is done in two phases: initiation (2010–2012) and development phase (2013–2023). The IoT clusters comprised Internet of things, energy efficiency, intelligent buildings, smart buildings and automation; while the most commonly used applications were analysed and established. The study also determined the productive journals, documents, authors and countries.Research limitations/implicationsDocuments published in the Scopus database from 2010 to 2023 were considered for the bibliometric analysis. Journal articles, conference papers, reviews, books and book chapters written in English language represent the inclusion criteria, while articles in press, conference reviews, letters, editorials, undefined sources and all medical and health publications were excluded.Practical implicationsThe results of this study will be used by construction stakeholders and policymakers to identify key themes and applications in IoT-enabled smart buildings and to guide future research in the policymaking process of asset management.Originality/valueThe study utilised bibliometric analysis, scientometrics and metasynthesis to investigate Internet of things applications in smart buildings. The study identified Internet of things clusters and applications for smart building design and construction.

The Main Barriers Limiting the Development of Smart Buildings

“…For Bagheri et al [40], installing expensive automation systems and information and communication technology (ICT) infrastructure is costly. Tanko et al [52] cite the extra cost of deploying IoT technologies.…”

Implementation of the Internet of Things in the Global Library Environment: Bibliometric Analysis

“…Rezaee et al (2023) systematically analyze the impact of IoT on operations management, using bibliometric and content analysis, demonstrating the deep penetration of IoT into miscellaneous aspects of management and service. Tanko et al (2023) focus on the bibliometric analysis and metasynthesis of IoT in the context of smart buildings, extending the application of IoT beyond traditional library services. Finally, Wójcik (2016) explored the potential of IoT for libraries, emphasizing opportunities for the development of library services.…”