Trend analysis and mapping issues related to management in the VUCA environment using the bibliometric method

This research aims to provide a comprehensive picture of the status of VUCA (Volatility, Uncertainty, Complexity, and Ambiguity) studies in management and its applications. The present research was conducted using the bibliometric method. The required data were extracted from Scopus (1,120 articles) and Web of Science (345 articles) using the keyword VUCA, and after refinement, 1,139 articles were selected for final analysis. The analyses included examining publication trends, identifying leading authors and institutions, keyword co-occurrence analysis, scientific mapping, and citation network analysis. The results showed that scientific publications in the field of VUCA increased from 1 article in 2008 to 244 articles in 2023. Among 3,105 identified keywords, concepts such as leadership and organizational agility (each with 64 citations), innovation (53.5 citations), and digital transformation (46.4 citations) had the most impact. The co-occurrence analysis led to 7 main clusters, with foresight and business development (25% of articles), leadership and strategy (21%), and technology (17%) being the most significant clusters. Success in the VUCA environment requires adopting a comprehensive and multidimensional approach that includes intelligent use of advanced technologies, developing dynamic organizational capabilities, strengthening the culture of creativity and innovation, and nurturing forward-thinking leaders. Companies that can effectively integrate these elements will not only be able to manage VUCA challenges but can also use these conditions for innovation and increasing organizational effectiveness.