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Writing a Literature Review

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A literature review is a document or section of a document that collects key sources on a topic and discusses those sources in conversation with each other (also called synthesis ). The lit review is an important genre in many disciplines, not just literature (i.e., the study of works of literature such as novels and plays). When we say “literature review” or refer to “the literature,” we are talking about the research ( scholarship ) in a given field. You will often see the terms “the research,” “the scholarship,” and “the literature” used mostly interchangeably.

Where, when, and why would I write a lit review?

There are a number of different situations where you might write a literature review, each with slightly different expectations; different disciplines, too, have field-specific expectations for what a literature review is and does. For instance, in the humanities, authors might include more overt argumentation and interpretation of source material in their literature reviews, whereas in the sciences, authors are more likely to report study designs and results in their literature reviews; these differences reflect these disciplines’ purposes and conventions in scholarship. You should always look at examples from your own discipline and talk to professors or mentors in your field to be sure you understand your discipline’s conventions, for literature reviews as well as for any other genre.

A literature review can be a part of a research paper or scholarly article, usually falling after the introduction and before the research methods sections. In these cases, the lit review just needs to cover scholarship that is important to the issue you are writing about; sometimes it will also cover key sources that informed your research methodology.

Lit reviews can also be standalone pieces, either as assignments in a class or as publications. In a class, a lit review may be assigned to help students familiarize themselves with a topic and with scholarship in their field, get an idea of the other researchers working on the topic they’re interested in, find gaps in existing research in order to propose new projects, and/or develop a theoretical framework and methodology for later research. As a publication, a lit review usually is meant to help make other scholars’ lives easier by collecting and summarizing, synthesizing, and analyzing existing research on a topic. This can be especially helpful for students or scholars getting into a new research area, or for directing an entire community of scholars toward questions that have not yet been answered.

What are the parts of a lit review?

Most lit reviews use a basic introduction-body-conclusion structure; if your lit review is part of a larger paper, the introduction and conclusion pieces may be just a few sentences while you focus most of your attention on the body. If your lit review is a standalone piece, the introduction and conclusion take up more space and give you a place to discuss your goals, research methods, and conclusions separately from where you discuss the literature itself.

Introduction:

• An introductory paragraph that explains what your working topic and thesis is
• A forecast of key topics or texts that will appear in the review
• Potentially, a description of how you found sources and how you analyzed them for inclusion and discussion in the review (more often found in published, standalone literature reviews than in lit review sections in an article or research paper)
• Summarize and synthesize: Give an overview of the main points of each source and combine them into a coherent whole
• Analyze and interpret: Don’t just paraphrase other researchers – add your own interpretations where possible, discussing the significance of findings in relation to the literature as a whole
• Critically Evaluate: Mention the strengths and weaknesses of your sources
• Write in well-structured paragraphs: Use transition words and topic sentence to draw connections, comparisons, and contrasts.

Conclusion:

• Summarize the key findings you have taken from the literature and emphasize their significance
• Connect it back to your primary research question

How should I organize my lit review?

Lit reviews can take many different organizational patterns depending on what you are trying to accomplish with the review. Here are some examples:

• Chronological : The simplest approach is to trace the development of the topic over time, which helps familiarize the audience with the topic (for instance if you are introducing something that is not commonly known in your field). If you choose this strategy, be careful to avoid simply listing and summarizing sources in order. Try to analyze the patterns, turning points, and key debates that have shaped the direction of the field. Give your interpretation of how and why certain developments occurred (as mentioned previously, this may not be appropriate in your discipline — check with a teacher or mentor if you’re unsure).
• Thematic : If you have found some recurring central themes that you will continue working with throughout your piece, you can organize your literature review into subsections that address different aspects of the topic. For example, if you are reviewing literature about women and religion, key themes can include the role of women in churches and the religious attitude towards women.
• Qualitative versus quantitative research
• Empirical versus theoretical scholarship
• Divide the research by sociological, historical, or cultural sources
• Theoretical : In many humanities articles, the literature review is the foundation for the theoretical framework. You can use it to discuss various theories, models, and definitions of key concepts. You can argue for the relevance of a specific theoretical approach or combine various theorical concepts to create a framework for your research.

What are some strategies or tips I can use while writing my lit review?

Any lit review is only as good as the research it discusses; make sure your sources are well-chosen and your research is thorough. Don’t be afraid to do more research if you discover a new thread as you’re writing. More info on the research process is available in our "Conducting Research" resources .

As you’re doing your research, create an annotated bibliography ( see our page on the this type of document ). Much of the information used in an annotated bibliography can be used also in a literature review, so you’ll be not only partially drafting your lit review as you research, but also developing your sense of the larger conversation going on among scholars, professionals, and any other stakeholders in your topic.

Usually you will need to synthesize research rather than just summarizing it. This means drawing connections between sources to create a picture of the scholarly conversation on a topic over time. Many student writers struggle to synthesize because they feel they don’t have anything to add to the scholars they are citing; here are some strategies to help you:

• It often helps to remember that the point of these kinds of syntheses is to show your readers how you understand your research, to help them read the rest of your paper.
• Writing teachers often say synthesis is like hosting a dinner party: imagine all your sources are together in a room, discussing your topic. What are they saying to each other?
• Look at the in-text citations in each paragraph. Are you citing just one source for each paragraph? This usually indicates summary only. When you have multiple sources cited in a paragraph, you are more likely to be synthesizing them (not always, but often
• Read more about synthesis here.

The most interesting literature reviews are often written as arguments (again, as mentioned at the beginning of the page, this is discipline-specific and doesn’t work for all situations). Often, the literature review is where you can establish your research as filling a particular gap or as relevant in a particular way. You have some chance to do this in your introduction in an article, but the literature review section gives a more extended opportunity to establish the conversation in the way you would like your readers to see it. You can choose the intellectual lineage you would like to be part of and whose definitions matter most to your thinking (mostly humanities-specific, but this goes for sciences as well). In addressing these points, you argue for your place in the conversation, which tends to make the lit review more compelling than a simple reporting of other sources.

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What is a Literature Review? How to Write It (with Examples)

A literature review is a critical analysis and synthesis of existing research on a particular topic. It provides an overview of the current state of knowledge, identifies gaps, and highlights key findings in the literature. 1 The purpose of a literature review is to situate your own research within the context of existing scholarship, demonstrating your understanding of the topic and showing how your work contributes to the ongoing conversation in the field. Learning how to write a literature review is a critical tool for successful research. Your ability to summarize and synthesize prior research pertaining to a certain topic demonstrates your grasp on the topic of study, and assists in the learning process. 

Table of Contents

• What is the purpose of literature review? 
• a. Habitat Loss and Species Extinction: 
• b. Range Shifts and Phenological Changes: 
• c. Ocean Acidification and Coral Reefs: 
• d. Adaptive Strategies and Conservation Efforts: 
• How to write a good literature review 
• Choose a Topic and Define the Research Question: 
• Decide on the Scope of Your Review: 
• Select Databases for Searches: 
• Conduct Searches and Keep Track: 
• Review the Literature: 
• Organize and Write Your Literature Review: 
• Frequently asked questions 

What is a literature review?

A well-conducted literature review demonstrates the researcher’s familiarity with the existing literature, establishes the context for their own research, and contributes to scholarly conversations on the topic. One of the purposes of a literature review is also to help researchers avoid duplicating previous work and ensure that their research is informed by and builds upon the existing body of knowledge.

What is the purpose of literature review?

A literature review serves several important purposes within academic and research contexts. Here are some key objectives and functions of a literature review: 2  

• Contextualizing the Research Problem: The literature review provides a background and context for the research problem under investigation. It helps to situate the study within the existing body of knowledge. 
• Identifying Gaps in Knowledge: By identifying gaps, contradictions, or areas requiring further research, the researcher can shape the research question and justify the significance of the study. This is crucial for ensuring that the new research contributes something novel to the field. 
• Understanding Theoretical and Conceptual Frameworks: Literature reviews help researchers gain an understanding of the theoretical and conceptual frameworks used in previous studies. This aids in the development of a theoretical framework for the current research. 
• Providing Methodological Insights: Another purpose of literature reviews is that it allows researchers to learn about the methodologies employed in previous studies. This can help in choosing appropriate research methods for the current study and avoiding pitfalls that others may have encountered. 
• Establishing Credibility: A well-conducted literature review demonstrates the researcher’s familiarity with existing scholarship, establishing their credibility and expertise in the field. It also helps in building a solid foundation for the new research. 
• Informing Hypotheses or Research Questions: The literature review guides the formulation of hypotheses or research questions by highlighting relevant findings and areas of uncertainty in existing literature. 

Literature review example

Let’s delve deeper with a literature review example: Let’s say your literature review is about the impact of climate change on biodiversity. You might format your literature review into sections such as the effects of climate change on habitat loss and species extinction, phenological changes, and marine biodiversity. Each section would then summarize and analyze relevant studies in those areas, highlighting key findings and identifying gaps in the research. The review would conclude by emphasizing the need for further research on specific aspects of the relationship between climate change and biodiversity. The following literature review template provides a glimpse into the recommended literature review structure and content, demonstrating how research findings are organized around specific themes within a broader topic. 

Literature Review on Climate Change Impacts on Biodiversity:

Climate change is a global phenomenon with far-reaching consequences, including significant impacts on biodiversity. This literature review synthesizes key findings from various studies: 

a. Habitat Loss and Species Extinction:

Climate change-induced alterations in temperature and precipitation patterns contribute to habitat loss, affecting numerous species (Thomas et al., 2004). The review discusses how these changes increase the risk of extinction, particularly for species with specific habitat requirements. 

b. Range Shifts and Phenological Changes:

Observations of range shifts and changes in the timing of biological events (phenology) are documented in response to changing climatic conditions (Parmesan & Yohe, 2003). These shifts affect ecosystems and may lead to mismatches between species and their resources. 

c. Ocean Acidification and Coral Reefs:

The review explores the impact of climate change on marine biodiversity, emphasizing ocean acidification’s threat to coral reefs (Hoegh-Guldberg et al., 2007). Changes in pH levels negatively affect coral calcification, disrupting the delicate balance of marine ecosystems. 

d. Adaptive Strategies and Conservation Efforts:

Recognizing the urgency of the situation, the literature review discusses various adaptive strategies adopted by species and conservation efforts aimed at mitigating the impacts of climate change on biodiversity (Hannah et al., 2007). It emphasizes the importance of interdisciplinary approaches for effective conservation planning. 

How to write a good literature review

Writing a literature review involves summarizing and synthesizing existing research on a particular topic. A good literature review format should include the following elements. 

Introduction: The introduction sets the stage for your literature review, providing context and introducing the main focus of your review. 

• Opening Statement: Begin with a general statement about the broader topic and its significance in the field. 
• Scope and Purpose: Clearly define the scope of your literature review. Explain the specific research question or objective you aim to address. 
• Organizational Framework: Briefly outline the structure of your literature review, indicating how you will categorize and discuss the existing research. 
• Significance of the Study: Highlight why your literature review is important and how it contributes to the understanding of the chosen topic. 
• Thesis Statement: Conclude the introduction with a concise thesis statement that outlines the main argument or perspective you will develop in the body of the literature review. 

Body: The body of the literature review is where you provide a comprehensive analysis of existing literature, grouping studies based on themes, methodologies, or other relevant criteria. 

• Organize by Theme or Concept: Group studies that share common themes, concepts, or methodologies. Discuss each theme or concept in detail, summarizing key findings and identifying gaps or areas of disagreement. 
• Critical Analysis: Evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of each study. Discuss the methodologies used, the quality of evidence, and the overall contribution of each work to the understanding of the topic. 
• Synthesis of Findings: Synthesize the information from different studies to highlight trends, patterns, or areas of consensus in the literature. 
• Identification of Gaps: Discuss any gaps or limitations in the existing research and explain how your review contributes to filling these gaps. 
• Transition between Sections: Provide smooth transitions between different themes or concepts to maintain the flow of your literature review. 

Conclusion: The conclusion of your literature review should summarize the main findings, highlight the contributions of the review, and suggest avenues for future research. 

• Summary of Key Findings: Recap the main findings from the literature and restate how they contribute to your research question or objective. 
• Contributions to the Field: Discuss the overall contribution of your literature review to the existing knowledge in the field. 
• Implications and Applications: Explore the practical implications of the findings and suggest how they might impact future research or practice. 
• Recommendations for Future Research: Identify areas that require further investigation and propose potential directions for future research in the field. 
• Final Thoughts: Conclude with a final reflection on the importance of your literature review and its relevance to the broader academic community. 

Conducting a literature review

Conducting a literature review is an essential step in research that involves reviewing and analyzing existing literature on a specific topic. It’s important to know how to do a literature review effectively, so here are the steps to follow: 1  

Choose a Topic and Define the Research Question:

• Select a topic that is relevant to your field of study. 
• Clearly define your research question or objective. Determine what specific aspect of the topic do you want to explore? 

Decide on the Scope of Your Review:

• Determine the timeframe for your literature review. Are you focusing on recent developments, or do you want a historical overview? 
• Consider the geographical scope. Is your review global, or are you focusing on a specific region? 
• Define the inclusion and exclusion criteria. What types of sources will you include? Are there specific types of studies or publications you will exclude? 

Select Databases for Searches:

• Identify relevant databases for your field. Examples include PubMed, IEEE Xplore, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar. 
• Consider searching in library catalogs, institutional repositories, and specialized databases related to your topic. 

Conduct Searches and Keep Track:

• Develop a systematic search strategy using keywords, Boolean operators (AND, OR, NOT), and other search techniques. 
• Record and document your search strategy for transparency and replicability. 
• Keep track of the articles, including publication details, abstracts, and links. Use citation management tools like EndNote, Zotero, or Mendeley to organize your references. 

Review the Literature:

• Evaluate the relevance and quality of each source. Consider the methodology, sample size, and results of studies. 
• Organize the literature by themes or key concepts. Identify patterns, trends, and gaps in the existing research. 
• Summarize key findings and arguments from each source. Compare and contrast different perspectives. 
• Identify areas where there is a consensus in the literature and where there are conflicting opinions. 
• Provide critical analysis and synthesis of the literature. What are the strengths and weaknesses of existing research? 

Organize and Write Your Literature Review:

• Literature review outline should be based on themes, chronological order, or methodological approaches. 
• Write a clear and coherent narrative that synthesizes the information gathered. 
• Use proper citations for each source and ensure consistency in your citation style (APA, MLA, Chicago, etc.). 
• Conclude your literature review by summarizing key findings, identifying gaps, and suggesting areas for future research. 

The literature review sample and detailed advice on writing and conducting a review will help you produce a well-structured report. But remember that a literature review is an ongoing process, and it may be necessary to revisit and update it as your research progresses. 

Frequently asked questions

A literature review is a critical and comprehensive analysis of existing literature (published and unpublished works) on a specific topic or research question and provides a synthesis of the current state of knowledge in a particular field. A well-conducted literature review is crucial for researchers to build upon existing knowledge, avoid duplication of efforts, and contribute to the advancement of their field. It also helps researchers situate their work within a broader context and facilitates the development of a sound theoretical and conceptual framework for their studies.

Literature review is a crucial component of research writing, providing a solid background for a research paper’s investigation. The aim is to keep professionals up to date by providing an understanding of ongoing developments within a specific field, including research methods, and experimental techniques used in that field, and present that knowledge in the form of a written report. Also, the depth and breadth of the literature review emphasizes the credibility of the scholar in his or her field.  

Before writing a literature review, it’s essential to undertake several preparatory steps to ensure that your review is well-researched, organized, and focused. This includes choosing a topic of general interest to you and doing exploratory research on that topic, writing an annotated bibliography, and noting major points, especially those that relate to the position you have taken on the topic. 

Literature reviews and academic research papers are essential components of scholarly work but serve different purposes within the academic realm. 3 A literature review aims to provide a foundation for understanding the current state of research on a particular topic, identify gaps or controversies, and lay the groundwork for future research. Therefore, it draws heavily from existing academic sources, including books, journal articles, and other scholarly publications. In contrast, an academic research paper aims to present new knowledge, contribute to the academic discourse, and advance the understanding of a specific research question. Therefore, it involves a mix of existing literature (in the introduction and literature review sections) and original data or findings obtained through research methods. 

Literature reviews are essential components of academic and research papers, and various strategies can be employed to conduct them effectively. If you want to know how to write a literature review for a research paper, here are four common approaches that are often used by researchers.  Chronological Review: This strategy involves organizing the literature based on the chronological order of publication. It helps to trace the development of a topic over time, showing how ideas, theories, and research have evolved.  Thematic Review: Thematic reviews focus on identifying and analyzing themes or topics that cut across different studies. Instead of organizing the literature chronologically, it is grouped by key themes or concepts, allowing for a comprehensive exploration of various aspects of the topic.  Methodological Review: This strategy involves organizing the literature based on the research methods employed in different studies. It helps to highlight the strengths and weaknesses of various methodologies and allows the reader to evaluate the reliability and validity of the research findings.  Theoretical Review: A theoretical review examines the literature based on the theoretical frameworks used in different studies. This approach helps to identify the key theories that have been applied to the topic and assess their contributions to the understanding of the subject.  It’s important to note that these strategies are not mutually exclusive, and a literature review may combine elements of more than one approach. The choice of strategy depends on the research question, the nature of the literature available, and the goals of the review. Additionally, other strategies, such as integrative reviews or systematic reviews, may be employed depending on the specific requirements of the research.

The literature review format can vary depending on the specific publication guidelines. However, there are some common elements and structures that are often followed. Here is a general guideline for the format of a literature review:  Introduction:   Provide an overview of the topic.  Define the scope and purpose of the literature review.  State the research question or objective.  Body:   Organize the literature by themes, concepts, or chronology.  Critically analyze and evaluate each source.  Discuss the strengths and weaknesses of the studies.  Highlight any methodological limitations or biases.  Identify patterns, connections, or contradictions in the existing research.  Conclusion:   Summarize the key points discussed in the literature review.  Highlight the research gap.  Address the research question or objective stated in the introduction.  Highlight the contributions of the review and suggest directions for future research.

Both annotated bibliographies and literature reviews involve the examination of scholarly sources. While annotated bibliographies focus on individual sources with brief annotations, literature reviews provide a more in-depth, integrated, and comprehensive analysis of existing literature on a specific topic. The key differences are as follows: 

References 

• Denney, A. S., & Tewksbury, R. (2013). How to write a literature review.  Journal of criminal justice education ,  24 (2), 218-234. 
• Pan, M. L. (2016).  Preparing literature reviews: Qualitative and quantitative approaches . Taylor & Francis. 
• Cantero, C. (2019). How to write a literature review.  San José State University Writing Center . 

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A literature review surveys prior research published in books, scholarly articles, and any other sources relevant to a particular issue, area of research, or theory, and by so doing, provides a description, summary, and critical evaluation of these works in relation to the research problem being investigated. Literature reviews are designed to provide an overview of sources you have used in researching a particular topic and to demonstrate to your readers how your research fits within existing scholarship about the topic.

Fink, Arlene. Conducting Research Literature Reviews: From the Internet to Paper . Fourth edition. Thousand Oaks, CA: SAGE, 2014.

Importance of a Good Literature Review

A literature review may consist of simply a summary of key sources, but in the social sciences, a literature review usually has an organizational pattern and combines both summary and synthesis, often within specific conceptual categories . A summary is a recap of the important information of the source, but a synthesis is a re-organization, or a reshuffling, of that information in a way that informs how you are planning to investigate a research problem. The analytical features of a literature review might:

• Give a new interpretation of old material or combine new with old interpretations,
• Trace the intellectual progression of the field, including major debates,
• Depending on the situation, evaluate the sources and advise the reader on the most pertinent or relevant research, or
• Usually in the conclusion of a literature review, identify where gaps exist in how a problem has been researched to date.

Given this, the purpose of a literature review is to:

• Place each work in the context of its contribution to understanding the research problem being studied.
• Describe the relationship of each work to the others under consideration.
• Identify new ways to interpret prior research.
• Reveal any gaps that exist in the literature.
• Resolve conflicts amongst seemingly contradictory previous studies.
• Identify areas of prior scholarship to prevent duplication of effort.
• Point the way in fulfilling a need for additional research.
• Locate your own research within the context of existing literature [very important].

Fink, Arlene. Conducting Research Literature Reviews: From the Internet to Paper. 2nd ed. Thousand Oaks, CA: Sage, 2005; Hart, Chris. Doing a Literature Review: Releasing the Social Science Research Imagination . Thousand Oaks, CA: Sage Publications, 1998; Jesson, Jill. Doing Your Literature Review: Traditional and Systematic Techniques . Los Angeles, CA: SAGE, 2011; Knopf, Jeffrey W. "Doing a Literature Review." PS: Political Science and Politics 39 (January 2006): 127-132; Ridley, Diana. The Literature Review: A Step-by-Step Guide for Students . 2nd ed. Los Angeles, CA: SAGE, 2012.

Types of Literature Reviews

It is important to think of knowledge in a given field as consisting of three layers. First, there are the primary studies that researchers conduct and publish. Second are the reviews of those studies that summarize and offer new interpretations built from and often extending beyond the primary studies. Third, there are the perceptions, conclusions, opinion, and interpretations that are shared informally among scholars that become part of the body of epistemological traditions within the field.

In composing a literature review, it is important to note that it is often this third layer of knowledge that is cited as "true" even though it often has only a loose relationship to the primary studies and secondary literature reviews. Given this, while literature reviews are designed to provide an overview and synthesis of pertinent sources you have explored, there are a number of approaches you could adopt depending upon the type of analysis underpinning your study.

Argumentative Review This form examines literature selectively in order to support or refute an argument, deeply embedded assumption, or philosophical problem already established in the literature. The purpose is to develop a body of literature that establishes a contrarian viewpoint. Given the value-laden nature of some social science research [e.g., educational reform; immigration control], argumentative approaches to analyzing the literature can be a legitimate and important form of discourse. However, note that they can also introduce problems of bias when they are used to make summary claims of the sort found in systematic reviews [see below].

Integrative Review Considered a form of research that reviews, critiques, and synthesizes representative literature on a topic in an integrated way such that new frameworks and perspectives on the topic are generated. The body of literature includes all studies that address related or identical hypotheses or research problems. A well-done integrative review meets the same standards as primary research in regard to clarity, rigor, and replication. This is the most common form of review in the social sciences.

Historical Review Few things rest in isolation from historical precedent. Historical literature reviews focus on examining research throughout a period of time, often starting with the first time an issue, concept, theory, phenomena emerged in the literature, then tracing its evolution within the scholarship of a discipline. The purpose is to place research in a historical context to show familiarity with state-of-the-art developments and to identify the likely directions for future research.

Methodological Review A review does not always focus on what someone said [findings], but how they came about saying what they say [method of analysis]. Reviewing methods of analysis provides a framework of understanding at different levels [i.e. those of theory, substantive fields, research approaches, and data collection and analysis techniques], how researchers draw upon a wide variety of knowledge ranging from the conceptual level to practical documents for use in fieldwork in the areas of ontological and epistemological consideration, quantitative and qualitative integration, sampling, interviewing, data collection, and data analysis. This approach helps highlight ethical issues which you should be aware of and consider as you go through your own study.

Systematic Review This form consists of an overview of existing evidence pertinent to a clearly formulated research question, which uses pre-specified and standardized methods to identify and critically appraise relevant research, and to collect, report, and analyze data from the studies that are included in the review. The goal is to deliberately document, critically evaluate, and summarize scientifically all of the research about a clearly defined research problem . Typically it focuses on a very specific empirical question, often posed in a cause-and-effect form, such as "To what extent does A contribute to B?" This type of literature review is primarily applied to examining prior research studies in clinical medicine and allied health fields, but it is increasingly being used in the social sciences.

Theoretical Review The purpose of this form is to examine the corpus of theory that has accumulated in regard to an issue, concept, theory, phenomena. The theoretical literature review helps to establish what theories already exist, the relationships between them, to what degree the existing theories have been investigated, and to develop new hypotheses to be tested. Often this form is used to help establish a lack of appropriate theories or reveal that current theories are inadequate for explaining new or emerging research problems. The unit of analysis can focus on a theoretical concept or a whole theory or framework.

NOTE : Most often the literature review will incorporate some combination of types. For example, a review that examines literature supporting or refuting an argument, assumption, or philosophical problem related to the research problem will also need to include writing supported by sources that establish the history of these arguments in the literature.

Baumeister, Roy F. and Mark R. Leary. "Writing Narrative Literature Reviews."  Review of General Psychology 1 (September 1997): 311-320; Mark R. Fink, Arlene. Conducting Research Literature Reviews: From the Internet to Paper . 2nd ed. Thousand Oaks, CA: Sage, 2005; Hart, Chris. Doing a Literature Review: Releasing the Social Science Research Imagination . Thousand Oaks, CA: Sage Publications, 1998; Kennedy, Mary M. "Defining a Literature." Educational Researcher 36 (April 2007): 139-147; Petticrew, Mark and Helen Roberts. Systematic Reviews in the Social Sciences: A Practical Guide . Malden, MA: Blackwell Publishers, 2006; Torracro, Richard. "Writing Integrative Literature Reviews: Guidelines and Examples." Human Resource Development Review 4 (September 2005): 356-367; Rocco, Tonette S. and Maria S. Plakhotnik. "Literature Reviews, Conceptual Frameworks, and Theoretical Frameworks: Terms, Functions, and Distinctions." Human Ressource Development Review 8 (March 2008): 120-130; Sutton, Anthea. Systematic Approaches to a Successful Literature Review . Los Angeles, CA: Sage Publications, 2016.

Structure and Writing Style

I.  Thinking About Your Literature Review

The structure of a literature review should include the following in support of understanding the research problem :

• An overview of the subject, issue, or theory under consideration, along with the objectives of the literature review,
• Division of works under review into themes or categories [e.g. works that support a particular position, those against, and those offering alternative approaches entirely],
• An explanation of how each work is similar to and how it varies from the others,
• Conclusions as to which pieces are best considered in their argument, are most convincing of their opinions, and make the greatest contribution to the understanding and development of their area of research.

The critical evaluation of each work should consider :

• Provenance -- what are the author's credentials? Are the author's arguments supported by evidence [e.g. primary historical material, case studies, narratives, statistics, recent scientific findings]?
• Methodology -- were the techniques used to identify, gather, and analyze the data appropriate to addressing the research problem? Was the sample size appropriate? Were the results effectively interpreted and reported?
• Objectivity -- is the author's perspective even-handed or prejudicial? Is contrary data considered or is certain pertinent information ignored to prove the author's point?
• Persuasiveness -- which of the author's theses are most convincing or least convincing?
• Validity -- are the author's arguments and conclusions convincing? Does the work ultimately contribute in any significant way to an understanding of the subject?

II.  Development of the Literature Review

Four Basic Stages of Writing 1.  Problem formulation -- which topic or field is being examined and what are its component issues? 2.  Literature search -- finding materials relevant to the subject being explored. 3.  Data evaluation -- determining which literature makes a significant contribution to the understanding of the topic. 4.  Analysis and interpretation -- discussing the findings and conclusions of pertinent literature.

Consider the following issues before writing the literature review: Clarify If your assignment is not specific about what form your literature review should take, seek clarification from your professor by asking these questions: 1.  Roughly how many sources would be appropriate to include? 2.  What types of sources should I review (books, journal articles, websites; scholarly versus popular sources)? 3.  Should I summarize, synthesize, or critique sources by discussing a common theme or issue? 4.  Should I evaluate the sources in any way beyond evaluating how they relate to understanding the research problem? 5.  Should I provide subheadings and other background information, such as definitions and/or a history? Find Models Use the exercise of reviewing the literature to examine how authors in your discipline or area of interest have composed their literature review sections. Read them to get a sense of the types of themes you might want to look for in your own research or to identify ways to organize your final review. The bibliography or reference section of sources you've already read, such as required readings in the course syllabus, are also excellent entry points into your own research. Narrow the Topic The narrower your topic, the easier it will be to limit the number of sources you need to read in order to obtain a good survey of relevant resources. Your professor will probably not expect you to read everything that's available about the topic, but you'll make the act of reviewing easier if you first limit scope of the research problem. A good strategy is to begin by searching the USC Libraries Catalog for recent books about the topic and review the table of contents for chapters that focuses on specific issues. You can also review the indexes of books to find references to specific issues that can serve as the focus of your research. For example, a book surveying the history of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict may include a chapter on the role Egypt has played in mediating the conflict, or look in the index for the pages where Egypt is mentioned in the text. Consider Whether Your Sources are Current Some disciplines require that you use information that is as current as possible. This is particularly true in disciplines in medicine and the sciences where research conducted becomes obsolete very quickly as new discoveries are made. However, when writing a review in the social sciences, a survey of the history of the literature may be required. In other words, a complete understanding the research problem requires you to deliberately examine how knowledge and perspectives have changed over time. Sort through other current bibliographies or literature reviews in the field to get a sense of what your discipline expects. You can also use this method to explore what is considered by scholars to be a "hot topic" and what is not.

III.  Ways to Organize Your Literature Review

Chronology of Events If your review follows the chronological method, you could write about the materials according to when they were published. This approach should only be followed if a clear path of research building on previous research can be identified and that these trends follow a clear chronological order of development. For example, a literature review that focuses on continuing research about the emergence of German economic power after the fall of the Soviet Union. By Publication Order your sources by publication chronology, then, only if the order demonstrates a more important trend. For instance, you could order a review of literature on environmental studies of brown fields if the progression revealed, for example, a change in the soil collection practices of the researchers who wrote and/or conducted the studies. Thematic [“conceptual categories”] A thematic literature review is the most common approach to summarizing prior research in the social and behavioral sciences. Thematic reviews are organized around a topic or issue, rather than the progression of time, although the progression of time may still be incorporated into a thematic review. For example, a review of the Internet’s impact on American presidential politics could focus on the development of online political satire. While the study focuses on one topic, the Internet’s impact on American presidential politics, it would still be organized chronologically reflecting technological developments in media. The difference in this example between a "chronological" and a "thematic" approach is what is emphasized the most: themes related to the role of the Internet in presidential politics. Note that more authentic thematic reviews tend to break away from chronological order. A review organized in this manner would shift between time periods within each section according to the point being made. Methodological A methodological approach focuses on the methods utilized by the researcher. For the Internet in American presidential politics project, one methodological approach would be to look at cultural differences between the portrayal of American presidents on American, British, and French websites. Or the review might focus on the fundraising impact of the Internet on a particular political party. A methodological scope will influence either the types of documents in the review or the way in which these documents are discussed.

Other Sections of Your Literature Review Once you've decided on the organizational method for your literature review, the sections you need to include in the paper should be easy to figure out because they arise from your organizational strategy. In other words, a chronological review would have subsections for each vital time period; a thematic review would have subtopics based upon factors that relate to the theme or issue. However, sometimes you may need to add additional sections that are necessary for your study, but do not fit in the organizational strategy of the body. What other sections you include in the body is up to you. However, only include what is necessary for the reader to locate your study within the larger scholarship about the research problem.

Here are examples of other sections, usually in the form of a single paragraph, you may need to include depending on the type of review you write:

• Current Situation : Information necessary to understand the current topic or focus of the literature review.
• Sources Used : Describes the methods and resources [e.g., databases] you used to identify the literature you reviewed.
• History : The chronological progression of the field, the research literature, or an idea that is necessary to understand the literature review, if the body of the literature review is not already a chronology.
• Selection Methods : Criteria you used to select (and perhaps exclude) sources in your literature review. For instance, you might explain that your review includes only peer-reviewed [i.e., scholarly] sources.
• Standards : Description of the way in which you present your information.
• Questions for Further Research : What questions about the field has the review sparked? How will you further your research as a result of the review?

IV.  Writing Your Literature Review

Once you've settled on how to organize your literature review, you're ready to write each section. When writing your review, keep in mind these issues.

Use Evidence A literature review section is, in this sense, just like any other academic research paper. Your interpretation of the available sources must be backed up with evidence [citations] that demonstrates that what you are saying is valid. Be Selective Select only the most important points in each source to highlight in the review. The type of information you choose to mention should relate directly to the research problem, whether it is thematic, methodological, or chronological. Related items that provide additional information, but that are not key to understanding the research problem, can be included in a list of further readings . Use Quotes Sparingly Some short quotes are appropriate if you want to emphasize a point, or if what an author stated cannot be easily paraphrased. Sometimes you may need to quote certain terminology that was coined by the author, is not common knowledge, or taken directly from the study. Do not use extensive quotes as a substitute for using your own words in reviewing the literature. Summarize and Synthesize Remember to summarize and synthesize your sources within each thematic paragraph as well as throughout the review. Recapitulate important features of a research study, but then synthesize it by rephrasing the study's significance and relating it to your own work and the work of others. Keep Your Own Voice While the literature review presents others' ideas, your voice [the writer's] should remain front and center. For example, weave references to other sources into what you are writing but maintain your own voice by starting and ending the paragraph with your own ideas and wording. Use Caution When Paraphrasing When paraphrasing a source that is not your own, be sure to represent the author's information or opinions accurately and in your own words. Even when paraphrasing an author’s work, you still must provide a citation to that work.

V.  Common Mistakes to Avoid

These are the most common mistakes made in reviewing social science research literature.

• Sources in your literature review do not clearly relate to the research problem;
• You do not take sufficient time to define and identify the most relevant sources to use in the literature review related to the research problem;
• Relies exclusively on secondary analytical sources rather than including relevant primary research studies or data;
• Uncritically accepts another researcher's findings and interpretations as valid, rather than examining critically all aspects of the research design and analysis;
• Does not describe the search procedures that were used in identifying the literature to review;
• Reports isolated statistical results rather than synthesizing them in chi-squared or meta-analytic methods; and,
• Only includes research that validates assumptions and does not consider contrary findings and alternative interpretations found in the literature.

Cook, Kathleen E. and Elise Murowchick. “Do Literature Review Skills Transfer from One Course to Another?” Psychology Learning and Teaching 13 (March 2014): 3-11; Fink, Arlene. Conducting Research Literature Reviews: From the Internet to Paper . 2nd ed. Thousand Oaks, CA: Sage, 2005; Hart, Chris. Doing a Literature Review: Releasing the Social Science Research Imagination . Thousand Oaks, CA: Sage Publications, 1998; Jesson, Jill. Doing Your Literature Review: Traditional and Systematic Techniques . London: SAGE, 2011; Literature Review Handout. Online Writing Center. Liberty University; Literature Reviews. The Writing Center. University of North Carolina; Onwuegbuzie, Anthony J. and Rebecca Frels. Seven Steps to a Comprehensive Literature Review: A Multimodal and Cultural Approach . Los Angeles, CA: SAGE, 2016; Ridley, Diana. The Literature Review: A Step-by-Step Guide for Students . 2nd ed. Los Angeles, CA: SAGE, 2012; Randolph, Justus J. “A Guide to Writing the Dissertation Literature Review." Practical Assessment, Research, and Evaluation. vol. 14, June 2009; Sutton, Anthea. Systematic Approaches to a Successful Literature Review . Los Angeles, CA: Sage Publications, 2016; Taylor, Dena. The Literature Review: A Few Tips On Conducting It. University College Writing Centre. University of Toronto; Writing a Literature Review. Academic Skills Centre. University of Canberra.

Writing Tip

Break Out of Your Disciplinary Box!

Thinking interdisciplinarily about a research problem can be a rewarding exercise in applying new ideas, theories, or concepts to an old problem. For example, what might cultural anthropologists say about the continuing conflict in the Middle East? In what ways might geographers view the need for better distribution of social service agencies in large cities than how social workers might study the issue? You don’t want to substitute a thorough review of core research literature in your discipline for studies conducted in other fields of study. However, particularly in the social sciences, thinking about research problems from multiple vectors is a key strategy for finding new solutions to a problem or gaining a new perspective. Consult with a librarian about identifying research databases in other disciplines; almost every field of study has at least one comprehensive database devoted to indexing its research literature.

Frodeman, Robert. The Oxford Handbook of Interdisciplinarity . New York: Oxford University Press, 2010.

Another Writing Tip

Don't Just Review for Content!

While conducting a review of the literature, maximize the time you devote to writing this part of your paper by thinking broadly about what you should be looking for and evaluating. Review not just what scholars are saying, but how are they saying it. Some questions to ask:

• How are they organizing their ideas?
• What methods have they used to study the problem?
• What theories have been used to explain, predict, or understand their research problem?
• What sources have they cited to support their conclusions?
• How have they used non-textual elements [e.g., charts, graphs, figures, etc.] to illustrate key points?

When you begin to write your literature review section, you'll be glad you dug deeper into how the research was designed and constructed because it establishes a means for developing more substantial analysis and interpretation of the research problem.

Hart, Chris. Doing a Literature Review: Releasing the Social Science Research Imagination . Thousand Oaks, CA: Sage Publications, 1 998.

Yet Another Writing Tip

When Do I Know I Can Stop Looking and Move On?

Here are several strategies you can utilize to assess whether you've thoroughly reviewed the literature:

• Look for repeating patterns in the research findings . If the same thing is being said, just by different people, then this likely demonstrates that the research problem has hit a conceptual dead end. At this point consider: Does your study extend current research?  Does it forge a new path? Or, does is merely add more of the same thing being said?
• Look at sources the authors cite to in their work . If you begin to see the same researchers cited again and again, then this is often an indication that no new ideas have been generated to address the research problem.
• Search Google Scholar to identify who has subsequently cited leading scholars already identified in your literature review [see next sub-tab]. This is called citation tracking and there are a number of sources that can help you identify who has cited whom, particularly scholars from outside of your discipline. Here again, if the same authors are being cited again and again, this may indicate no new literature has been written on the topic.

Onwuegbuzie, Anthony J. and Rebecca Frels. Seven Steps to a Comprehensive Literature Review: A Multimodal and Cultural Approach . Los Angeles, CA: Sage, 2016; Sutton, Anthea. Systematic Approaches to a Successful Literature Review . Los Angeles, CA: Sage Publications, 2016.

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• Last Updated: May 9, 2024 11:05 AM
• URL: https://libguides.usc.edu/writingguide

How to Write a Successful Literature Review

One type of a proposal focus is a literature review/trend analysis . This type of a proposal is somewhat different from the other proposal foci. A sample literature/trend analysis is posted at the bottom of this guide.

A literature review surveys scholarly articles, books and other sources (e.g. dissertations, conference proceedings) relevant to a particular issue, area of research or theory, and provides a description, summary, and critical evaluation of these works.The goal of this form of a proposal is to provide an overview of the significant trends in the literature that is published on this topic.

The topics and references you include in your proposal should be purposeful and represent the key authors and arguments in that particular area of study. This necessitates that the review be consistently up to date and include the newest findings/discussions in that particular area of study or debate.

Definition and use/purpose

In a literature review you may highlight a critical area of a thesis, or it may be a focused, selected review of writings on a subject with the following purposes. Each work should:

• Relate to the context of its contribution to the understanding of the subject under review
• Describe / compare each work in relationship to the others in your proposal
• Identify new ways to interpret, and shed light on any gaps in, previous research
• Resolve conflicts among what is deemed as contradictory previous studies
• Identify areas of prior scholarship to prevent duplication of effort
• Illustrate how this work can be a starting point for further research
• Highlight the relevancy of the work in the context of existing literature

The literature review itself, however, does not present new primary scholarship.

What to include

• An overview of the subject, issue or theory under consideration, along with the objectives of the literature review
• Division of works under review into categories (e.g. those supporting a particular position, those who have the opposite view, and those who give alternative theses entirely)
• An explanation of how each work is similar to and how it varies from the others
• A conclusion . Determine which aspects are key in the debates on the topic, are most convincing, and make the greatest contribution to the understanding and development of this particular research area.

Evaluating the data

• Authority — What are the author's credentials? Is there evidence to support the author's arguments (e.g., primary historical material, case studies, narratives, statistics, recent scientific findings)?
• Objectivity — Does the author have a bias in the writing, or is the perspective even-handed? Does the author consider contrasting or opposing data or does he or she ignore other pertinent information in order to prove the author's point?
• Persuasiveness — Which of the author's theses are most/least convincing?
• Value — Does the author provide enough context to make the case that this is a relevant discussion in the current state of the field? Does this work make a significant contribution to create a stronger understanding of the subject?

A sample of a well-written literature review/trend analysis is available below. If you have questions, please email Cindy Winter or call her at 612-759-8580. You may also contact one of the section chairs .

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Literature Review in Research Proposal: A Comprehensive Guide

• Introduction: What is a Literature Review and Why is it Important?

The introduction is an essential part of any literature review in a research proposal. It provides a foundation for the entire review and gives context to the importance of conducting a literature review in the first place. In this section, you will need to provide a brief definition of what a literature review is and why it is an essential component of a research proposal.

A literature review is a critical evaluation and summary of published research studies and other sources relevant to a particular research topic. The purpose of a literature review is to identify and evaluate the existing knowledge on a topic, as well as to identify any gaps in the knowledge base that the proposed research aims to fill.

In a research proposal, the introduction section must explain the importance of the literature review to the overall project. It is an opportunity to convince the reader of the significance of the research problem and to show how the literature review will contribute to knowledge building. This section should also provide a clear and concise statement of the research problem and the research question(s).

Overall, the introduction section sets the stage for the literature review and the research proposal as a whole. It provides a context for the research problem, highlights the knowledge gaps that the proposed research aims to fill, and justifies the importance of the literature review in achieving the research objectives. By providing a clear and compelling introduction, researchers can ensure that their proposal has a strong foundation for success.

In This Article:

Defining the Research Problem

Developing a research question, conducting a literature search, analyzing and synthesizing literature, evaluating the quality of literature, identifying themes and patterns, previous articles:.

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Subheading 2, “Defining the Research Problem: Using Literature Review to Identify Gaps in Knowledge,” is an important subheading in the literature review section of a research proposal. A literature review is an essential part of any research project as it provides a comprehensive overview of the existing body of knowledge on a specific research topic.

To define the research problem, it is crucial to identify what is already known and what is not known about the research topic. This is where a literature review comes in handy. This process of identifying gaps in knowledge allows the researcher to identify the specific research problem and develop research questions and objectives that can address those gaps.

In summary, subheading 2 is critical in the literature review section of a research proposal as it highlights the importance of using a literature review to identify gaps in knowledge and define the research problem.

The subheading “Developing a Research Question: Using Literature Review to Inform Research Questions and Objectives” highlights the crucial role of literature review in guiding the development of research questions and objectives. A well-formulated research question provides a clear focus for the study, ensuring that the research stays on track and avoids any unnecessary or irrelevant work. In addition, by conducting a thorough literature review, researchers can identify the current state of knowledge on the topic, recognize any gaps or inconsistencies in the literature, and identify potential areas of further exploration.

To develop a research question, it is important to first consider the research problem and the purpose of the study. Once the problem has been defined, the literature review can help to identify relevant theoretical and empirical frameworks that can inform the development of research questions. The literature review can also help to refine and narrow the research question, ensuring that it is feasible, relevant, and important.

The fourth subheading, “Conducting a Literature Search: Tips and Strategies for Finding Relevant Studies and Sources,” is an essential aspect of writing a comprehensive literature review for a research proposal. The literature search is a critical step in identifying relevant studies and sources that will help answer the research question and objectives.

When conducting a literature search, it is crucial to develop a systematic approach that will guide the process.

In addition, it is important to document the search process by keeping a record of the keywords used, the sources searched, and the search results. This documentation will enable researchers to retrace their steps if necessary and ensure that they are transparent in their research methods.

Another important consideration when conducting a literature search is the quality of the sources used. Researchers should be mindful of the credibility of the sources and ensure that they are peer-reviewed, reputable, and relevant to the research question. Using sources that are not reliable or relevant can weaken the literature review and the overall research proposal.

Subheading 5, “Analyzing and Synthesizing Literature: Methods for Summarizing and Integrating Findings,” is a critical component of any literature review in a research proposal. This subheading refers to the process of reviewing and synthesizing existing research to gain an understanding of the current state of knowledge on the research topic.

In the analysis and synthesis phase, the researcher begins by reviewing the literature collected in the search phase. This process involves reading through each article or source, summarizing the main findings, and noting the key points that contribute to the understanding of the research problem. The researcher may use a variety of methods to organize the information, such as tables, charts, or diagrams.

Once the researcher has completed the summary of each study, the synthesis phase begins. This is the process of integrating the findings from the individual studies into a cohesive whole. The researcher must identify commonalities and differences between the studies and identify themes and patterns that emerge across the literature.

Subheading 6, “Evaluating the Quality of Literature: Criteria for Assessing the Validity and Reliability of Studies,” is a crucial element of any literature review in a research proposal. Evaluating the quality of literature is an essential step in ensuring that the information gathered from various sources is trustworthy and accurate.

To evaluate the quality of literature, researchers must use established criteria that are specific to the research topic and questions. For example, when conducting research in the social sciences, the criteria may include the validity of the research design, the reliability of the data collection methods, and the transparency of the analysis. In contrast, when researching in the natural sciences, the criteria may include the accuracy of the measurements, the statistical analysis, and the experimental design.

One way to evaluate the quality of literature is to use a systematic review approach. Systematic reviews involve a thorough and structured process of searching, evaluating, and synthesizing existing research to answer specific research questions. This approach ensures that the quality of the literature is assessed in a rigorous and transparent way, which increases the confidence in the findings of the literature review.

Subheading 7, “Identifying Themes and Patterns: Techniques for Identifying Common Themes and Patterns Across Studies,” is an important aspect of conducting a literature review in a research proposal. After conducting a thorough literature search and analyzing and synthesizing the findings, researchers need to identify the common themes and patterns that emerge across different studies. Furthermore, this process is essential because it helps to build a solid foundation for the proposed research by identifying existing knowledge gaps and areas where further research is needed.

One technique for identifying themes and patterns is to use a thematic analysis approach. Thematic analysis involves reading through the literature and highlighting or coding relevant data that relates to the research question or objective. Once all of the data has been coded, researchers can then categorize the codes into themes, which can be used to summarize the key findings of the literature review.

Another technique for identifying themes and patterns is to use a meta-synthesis approach. Meta-synthesis involves synthesizing the findings of multiple studies and identifying common themes and patterns that emerge.

In conclusion, a literature review is an essential component of any research proposal, and its importance cannot be overstated. The literature review helps to identify existing knowledge gaps, inform research questions and objectives, and build a solid foundation for the proposed research. In addition, by conducting a thorough literature search, analyzing and synthesizing the findings, and identifying common themes and patterns, researchers can ensure that their literature review is comprehensive and relevant to their research objectives.

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Literature Review Example/Sample

Detailed Walkthrough + Free Literature Review Template

If you’re working on a dissertation or thesis and are looking for an example of a strong literature review chapter , you’ve come to the right place.

In this video, we walk you through an A-grade literature review from a dissertation that earned full distinction . We start off by discussing the five core sections of a literature review chapter by unpacking our free literature review template . This includes:

• The literature review opening/ introduction section
• The theoretical framework (or foundation of theory)
• The empirical research
• The research gap
• The closing section

We then progress to the sample literature review (from an A-grade Master’s-level dissertation) to show how these concepts are applied in the literature review chapter. You can access the free resources mentioned in this video below.

PS – If you’re working on a dissertation, be sure to also check out our collection of dissertation and thesis examples here .

FAQ: Literature Review Example

Literature review example: frequently asked questions, is the sample literature review real.

Yes. The literature review example is an extract from a Master’s-level dissertation for an MBA program. It has not been edited in any way.

Can I replicate this literature review for my dissertation?

As we discuss in the video, every literature review will be slightly different, depending on the university’s unique requirements, as well as the nature of the research itself. Therefore, you’ll need to tailor your literature review to suit your specific context.

You can learn more about the basics of writing a literature review here .

Where can I find more examples of literature reviews?

The best place to find more examples of literature review chapters would be within dissertation/thesis databases. These databases include dissertations, theses and research projects that have successfully passed the assessment criteria for the respective university, meaning that you have at least some sort of quality assurance. 

The Open Access Thesis Database (OATD) is a good starting point. 

How do I get the literature review template?

You can access our free literature review chapter template here .

Is the template really free?

Yes. There is no cost for the template and you are free to use it as you wish. 

Psst… there’s more!

This post is an extract from our bestselling short course, Literature Review Bootcamp . If you want to work smart, you don't want to miss this .

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EDUC802: Educational Research Design

Main content, module 4: how to review literature, develop questions, and write a proposal.

• First Page |<<
• Previous Page <

Introduction

[MUSIC PLAYING]

MATTHEW T. MCCRUDDEN: OK. In this chapter, the focus is on how to review the literature and to develop good research questions. So the basic idea here is that you want to see what's been done previously in an area and that will help inform the types of questions that you ask. And those two features are very important because if previous work has been done, you want to benefit from that. Because we mentioned earlier, that research is incremental, and so if we can draw upon previous literature, that can inform our current thinking.

And when we have good research questions, that can set our research study in the right direction. If we have a poorly phrased research question, it becomes difficult to answer that question. So in this chapter, we'll talk about how do we draw upon existing resources to inform our thinking about conducting future research? And then how do we frame those studies using effective research questions that can be addressed with the methods that we have at our disposal?

MATTHEW T. MCCRUDDEN: This chapter, the topic is "How to Write a Research Proposal." So it introduces, what exactly is a research proposal? Why do we have that, and then, what are the components?

And when you think broadly about a research proposal, think of it as a plan of action. It's telling you, you're laying out specifically what you're going to do in order to conduct a study. And so this chapter talks about what, are the elements that you include in a research proposal as you go through the planning process prior to conducting a study?

At the completion of this module, you will be able to:

• Accurately identify, define, and apply key terms and concepts related to literature reviews, research questions, and research proposals.
• Identify components of a research article.
• Draft components of your research proposal for this course.
• Reflect and apply key concepts to your personal research interests.
• Summarize and evaluate components of a qualitative research article.

Complete the learning activities by the due dates listed in the Course Schedule for Module 4.

• Readings and Videos
• Reading Questions
• Article Review (Qualitative)

Top of page

15 Literature Review Examples

Literature reviews are a necessary step in a research process and often required when writing your research proposal . They involve gathering, analyzing, and evaluating existing knowledge about a topic in order to find gaps in the literature where future studies will be needed.

Ideally, once you have completed your literature review, you will be able to identify how your research project can build upon and extend existing knowledge in your area of study.

Generally, for my undergraduate research students, I recommend a narrative review, where themes can be generated in order for the students to develop sufficient understanding of the topic so they can build upon the themes using unique methods or novel research questions.

If you’re in the process of writing a literature review, I have developed a literature review template for you to use – it’s a huge time-saver and walks you through how to write a literature review step-by-step:

Get your time-saving templates here to write your own literature review.

Literature Review Examples

For the following types of literature review, I present an explanation and overview of the type, followed by links to some real-life literature reviews on the topics.

1. Narrative Review Examples

Also known as a traditional literature review, the narrative review provides a broad overview of the studies done on a particular topic.

It often includes both qualitative and quantitative studies and may cover a wide range of years.

The narrative review’s purpose is to identify commonalities, gaps, and contradictions in the literature .

I recommend to my students that they should gather their studies together, take notes on each study, then try to group them by themes that form the basis for the review (see my step-by-step instructions at the end of the article).

Example Study

Title: Communication in healthcare: a narrative review of the literature and practical recommendations

Citation: Vermeir, P., Vandijck, D., Degroote, S., Peleman, R., Verhaeghe, R., Mortier, E., … & Vogelaers, D. (2015). Communication in healthcare: a narrative review of the literature and practical recommendations. International journal of clinical practice , 69 (11), 1257-1267.

Source: https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/pdf/10.1111/ijcp.12686  

Overview: This narrative review analyzed themes emerging from 69 articles about communication in healthcare contexts. Five key themes were found in the literature: poor communication can lead to various negative outcomes, discontinuity of care, compromise of patient safety, patient dissatisfaction, and inefficient use of resources. After presenting the key themes, the authors recommend that practitioners need to approach healthcare communication in a more structured way, such as by ensuring there is a clear understanding of who is in charge of ensuring effective communication in clinical settings.

Other Examples

• Burnout in United States Healthcare Professionals: A Narrative Review (Reith, 2018) – read here
• Examining the Presence, Consequences, and Reduction of Implicit Bias in Health Care: A Narrative Review (Zestcott, Blair & Stone, 2016) – read here
• A Narrative Review of School-Based Physical Activity for Enhancing Cognition and Learning (Mavilidi et al., 2018) – read here
• A narrative review on burnout experienced by medical students and residents (Dyrbye & Shanafelt, 2015) – read here

2. Systematic Review Examples

This type of literature review is more structured and rigorous than a narrative review. It involves a detailed and comprehensive plan and search strategy derived from a set of specified research questions.

The key way you’d know a systematic review compared to a narrative review is in the methodology: the systematic review will likely have a very clear criteria for how the studies were collected, and clear explanations of exclusion/inclusion criteria. 

The goal is to gather the maximum amount of valid literature on the topic, filter out invalid or low-quality reviews, and minimize bias. Ideally, this will provide more reliable findings, leading to higher-quality conclusions and recommendations for further research.

You may note from the examples below that the ‘method’ sections in systematic reviews tend to be much more explicit, often noting rigid inclusion/exclusion criteria and exact keywords used in searches.

Title: The importance of food naturalness for consumers: Results of a systematic review  

Citation: Roman, S., Sánchez-Siles, L. M., & Siegrist, M. (2017). The importance of food naturalness for consumers: Results of a systematic review. Trends in food science & technology , 67 , 44-57.

Source: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S092422441730122X  

Overview: This systematic review included 72 studies of food naturalness to explore trends in the literature about its importance for consumers. Keywords used in the data search included: food, naturalness, natural content, and natural ingredients. Studies were included if they examined consumers’ preference for food naturalness and contained empirical data. The authors found that the literature lacks clarity about how naturalness is defined and measured, but also found that food consumption is significantly influenced by perceived naturalness of goods.

• A systematic review of research on online teaching and learning from 2009 to 2018 (Martin, Sun & Westine, 2020) – read here
• Where Is Current Research on Blockchain Technology? (Yli-Huumo et al., 2016) – read here
• Universities—industry collaboration: A systematic review (Ankrah & Al-Tabbaa, 2015) – read here
• Internet of Things Applications: A Systematic Review (Asghari, Rahmani & Javadi, 2019) – read here

3. Meta-analysis

This is a type of systematic review that uses statistical methods to combine and summarize the results of several studies.

Due to its robust methodology, a meta-analysis is often considered the ‘gold standard’ of secondary research , as it provides a more precise estimate of a treatment effect than any individual study contributing to the pooled analysis.

Furthermore, by aggregating data from a range of studies, a meta-analysis can identify patterns, disagreements, or other interesting relationships that may have been hidden in individual studies.

This helps to enhance the generalizability of findings, making the conclusions drawn from a meta-analysis particularly powerful and informative for policy and practice.

Title: Cholesterol and Alzheimer’s Disease Risk: A Meta-Meta-Analysis

Citation: Sáiz-Vazquez, O., Puente-Martínez, A., Ubillos-Landa, S., Pacheco-Bonrostro, J., & Santabárbara, J. (2020). Cholesterol and Alzheimer’s disease risk: a meta-meta-analysis. Brain sciences, 10(6), 386.

Source: https://doi.org/10.3390/brainsci10060386  

O verview: This study examines the relationship between cholesterol and Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Researchers conducted a systematic search of meta-analyses and reviewed several databases, collecting 100 primary studies and five meta-analyses to analyze the connection between cholesterol and Alzheimer’s disease. They find that the literature compellingly demonstrates that low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) levels significantly influence the development of Alzheimer’s disease.

• The power of feedback revisited: A meta-analysis of educational feedback research (Wisniewski, Zierer & Hattie, 2020) – read here
• How Much Does Education Improve Intelligence? A Meta-Analysis (Ritchie & Tucker-Drob, 2018) – read here
• A meta-analysis of factors related to recycling (Geiger et al., 2019) – read here
• Stress management interventions for police officers and recruits (Patterson, Chung & Swan, 2014) – read here

Other Types of Reviews

• Scoping Review: This type of review is used to map the key concepts underpinning a research area and the main sources and types of evidence available. It can be undertaken as stand-alone projects in their own right, or as a precursor to a systematic review.
• Rapid Review: This type of review accelerates the systematic review process in order to produce information in a timely manner. This is achieved by simplifying or omitting stages of the systematic review process.
• Integrative Review: This review method is more inclusive than others, allowing for the simultaneous inclusion of experimental and non-experimental research. The goal is to more comprehensively understand a particular phenomenon.
• Critical Review: This is similar to a narrative review but requires a robust understanding of both the subject and the existing literature. In a critical review, the reviewer not only summarizes the existing literature, but also evaluates its strengths and weaknesses. This is common in the social sciences and humanities .
• State-of-the-Art Review: This considers the current level of advancement in a field or topic and makes recommendations for future research directions. This type of review is common in technological and scientific fields but can be applied to any discipline.

How to Write a Narrative Review (Tips for Undergrad Students)

Most undergraduate students conducting a capstone research project will be writing narrative reviews. Below is a five-step process for conducting a simple review of the literature for your project.

• Search for Relevant Literature: Use scholarly databases related to your field of study, provided by your university library, along with appropriate search terms to identify key scholarly articles that have been published on your topic.
• Evaluate and Select Sources: Filter the source list by selecting studies that are directly relevant and of sufficient quality, considering factors like credibility , objectivity, accuracy, and validity.
• Analyze and Synthesize: Review each source and summarize the main arguments  in one paragraph (or more, for postgrad). Keep these summaries in a table.
• Identify Themes: With all studies summarized, group studies that share common themes, such as studies that have similar findings or methodologies.
• Write the Review: Write your review based upon the themes or subtopics you have identified. Give a thorough overview of each theme, integrating source data, and conclude with a summary of the current state of knowledge then suggestions for future research based upon your evaluation of what is lacking in the literature.

Literature reviews don’t have to be as scary as they seem. Yes, they are difficult and require a strong degree of comprehension of academic studies. But it can be feasibly done through following a structured approach to data collection and analysis. With my undergraduate research students (who tend to conduct small-scale qualitative studies ), I encourage them to conduct a narrative literature review whereby they can identify key themes in the literature. Within each theme, students can critique key studies and their strengths and limitations , in order to get a lay of the land and come to a point where they can identify ways to contribute new insights to the existing academic conversation on their topic.

Ankrah, S., & Omar, A. T. (2015). Universities–industry collaboration: A systematic review. Scandinavian Journal of Management, 31(3), 387-408.

Asghari, P., Rahmani, A. M., & Javadi, H. H. S. (2019). Internet of Things applications: A systematic review. Computer Networks , 148 , 241-261.

Dyrbye, L., & Shanafelt, T. (2016). A narrative review on burnout experienced by medical students and residents. Medical education , 50 (1), 132-149.

Geiger, J. L., Steg, L., Van Der Werff, E., & Ünal, A. B. (2019). A meta-analysis of factors related to recycling. Journal of environmental psychology , 64 , 78-97.

Martin, F., Sun, T., & Westine, C. D. (2020). A systematic review of research on online teaching and learning from 2009 to 2018. Computers & education , 159 , 104009.

Mavilidi, M. F., Ruiter, M., Schmidt, M., Okely, A. D., Loyens, S., Chandler, P., & Paas, F. (2018). A narrative review of school-based physical activity for enhancing cognition and learning: The importance of relevancy and integration. Frontiers in psychology , 2079.

Patterson, G. T., Chung, I. W., & Swan, P. W. (2014). Stress management interventions for police officers and recruits: A meta-analysis. Journal of experimental criminology , 10 , 487-513.

Reith, T. P. (2018). Burnout in United States healthcare professionals: a narrative review. Cureus , 10 (12).

Ritchie, S. J., & Tucker-Drob, E. M. (2018). How much does education improve intelligence? A meta-analysis. Psychological science , 29 (8), 1358-1369.

Roman, S., Sánchez-Siles, L. M., & Siegrist, M. (2017). The importance of food naturalness for consumers: Results of a systematic review. Trends in food science & technology , 67 , 44-57.

Sáiz-Vazquez, O., Puente-Martínez, A., Ubillos-Landa, S., Pacheco-Bonrostro, J., & Santabárbara, J. (2020). Cholesterol and Alzheimer’s disease risk: a meta-meta-analysis. Brain sciences, 10(6), 386.

Vermeir, P., Vandijck, D., Degroote, S., Peleman, R., Verhaeghe, R., Mortier, E., … & Vogelaers, D. (2015). Communication in healthcare: a narrative review of the literature and practical recommendations. International journal of clinical practice , 69 (11), 1257-1267.

Wisniewski, B., Zierer, K., & Hattie, J. (2020). The power of feedback revisited: A meta-analysis of educational feedback research. Frontiers in Psychology , 10 , 3087.

Yli-Huumo, J., Ko, D., Choi, S., Park, S., & Smolander, K. (2016). Where is current research on blockchain technology?—a systematic review. PloS one , 11 (10), e0163477.

Zestcott, C. A., Blair, I. V., & Stone, J. (2016). Examining the presence, consequences, and reduction of implicit bias in health care: a narrative review. Group Processes & Intergroup Relations , 19 (4), 528-542

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Dr. Chris Drew is the founder of the Helpful Professor. He holds a PhD in education and has published over 20 articles in scholarly journals. He is the former editor of the Journal of Learning Development in Higher Education. [Image Descriptor: Photo of Chris]

• Chris Drew (PhD) https://helpfulprofessor.com/author/chris-drew-phd/ Social-Emotional Learning (Definition, Examples, Pros & Cons)
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Home » How To Write A Research Proposal – Step-by-Step [Template]

How To Write A Research Proposal – Step-by-Step [Template]

Table of Contents

How To Write a Research Proposal

Writing a Research proposal involves several steps to ensure a well-structured and comprehensive document. Here is an explanation of each step:

1. Title and Abstract

• Choose a concise and descriptive title that reflects the essence of your research.
• Write an abstract summarizing your research question, objectives, methodology, and expected outcomes. It should provide a brief overview of your proposal.

2. Introduction:

• Provide an introduction to your research topic, highlighting its significance and relevance.
• Clearly state the research problem or question you aim to address.
• Discuss the background and context of the study, including previous research in the field.

3. Research Objectives

• Outline the specific objectives or aims of your research. These objectives should be clear, achievable, and aligned with the research problem.

4. Literature Review:

• Conduct a comprehensive review of relevant literature and studies related to your research topic.
• Summarize key findings, identify gaps, and highlight how your research will contribute to the existing knowledge.

5. Methodology:

• Describe the research design and methodology you plan to employ to address your research objectives.
• Explain the data collection methods, instruments, and analysis techniques you will use.
• Justify why the chosen methods are appropriate and suitable for your research.

6. Timeline:

• Create a timeline or schedule that outlines the major milestones and activities of your research project.
• Break down the research process into smaller tasks and estimate the time required for each task.

7. Resources:

• Identify the resources needed for your research, such as access to specific databases, equipment, or funding.
• Explain how you will acquire or utilize these resources to carry out your research effectively.

8. Ethical Considerations:

• Discuss any ethical issues that may arise during your research and explain how you plan to address them.
• If your research involves human subjects, explain how you will ensure their informed consent and privacy.

9. Expected Outcomes and Significance:

• Clearly state the expected outcomes or results of your research.
• Highlight the potential impact and significance of your research in advancing knowledge or addressing practical issues.

10. References:

• Provide a list of all the references cited in your proposal, following a consistent citation style (e.g., APA, MLA).

11. Appendices:

• Include any additional supporting materials, such as survey questionnaires, interview guides, or data analysis plans.

Research Proposal Format

The format of a research proposal may vary depending on the specific requirements of the institution or funding agency. However, the following is a commonly used format for a research proposal:

1. Title Page:

• Include the title of your research proposal, your name, your affiliation or institution, and the date.

2. Abstract:

• Provide a brief summary of your research proposal, highlighting the research problem, objectives, methodology, and expected outcomes.

3. Introduction:

• Introduce the research topic and provide background information.
• State the research problem or question you aim to address.
• Explain the significance and relevance of the research.
• Review relevant literature and studies related to your research topic.
• Summarize key findings and identify gaps in the existing knowledge.
• Explain how your research will contribute to filling those gaps.

5. Research Objectives:

• Clearly state the specific objectives or aims of your research.
• Ensure that the objectives are clear, focused, and aligned with the research problem.

6. Methodology:

• Describe the research design and methodology you plan to use.
• Explain the data collection methods, instruments, and analysis techniques.
• Justify why the chosen methods are appropriate for your research.

7. Timeline:

8. Resources:

• Explain how you will acquire or utilize these resources effectively.

9. Ethical Considerations:

• If applicable, explain how you will ensure informed consent and protect the privacy of research participants.

10. Expected Outcomes and Significance:

11. References:

12. Appendices:

Research Proposal Template

Here’s a template for a research proposal:

1. Introduction:

2. Literature Review:

3. Research Objectives:

4. Methodology:

5. Timeline:

6. Resources:

7. Ethical Considerations:

8. Expected Outcomes and Significance:

9. References:

10. Appendices:

Research Proposal Sample

Title: The Impact of Online Education on Student Learning Outcomes: A Comparative Study

1. Introduction

Online education has gained significant prominence in recent years, especially due to the COVID-19 pandemic. This research proposal aims to investigate the impact of online education on student learning outcomes by comparing them with traditional face-to-face instruction. The study will explore various aspects of online education, such as instructional methods, student engagement, and academic performance, to provide insights into the effectiveness of online learning.

2. Objectives

The main objectives of this research are as follows:

• To compare student learning outcomes between online and traditional face-to-face education.
• To examine the factors influencing student engagement in online learning environments.
• To assess the effectiveness of different instructional methods employed in online education.
• To identify challenges and opportunities associated with online education and suggest recommendations for improvement.

3. Methodology

3.1 Study Design

This research will utilize a mixed-methods approach to gather both quantitative and qualitative data. The study will include the following components:

3.2 Participants

The research will involve undergraduate students from two universities, one offering online education and the other providing face-to-face instruction. A total of 500 students (250 from each university) will be selected randomly to participate in the study.

3.3 Data Collection

The research will employ the following data collection methods:

• Quantitative: Pre- and post-assessments will be conducted to measure students’ learning outcomes. Data on student demographics and academic performance will also be collected from university records.
• Qualitative: Focus group discussions and individual interviews will be conducted with students to gather their perceptions and experiences regarding online education.

3.4 Data Analysis

Quantitative data will be analyzed using statistical software, employing descriptive statistics, t-tests, and regression analysis. Qualitative data will be transcribed, coded, and analyzed thematically to identify recurring patterns and themes.

4. Ethical Considerations

The study will adhere to ethical guidelines, ensuring the privacy and confidentiality of participants. Informed consent will be obtained, and participants will have the right to withdraw from the study at any time.

5. Significance and Expected Outcomes

This research will contribute to the existing literature by providing empirical evidence on the impact of online education on student learning outcomes. The findings will help educational institutions and policymakers make informed decisions about incorporating online learning methods and improving the quality of online education. Moreover, the study will identify potential challenges and opportunities related to online education and offer recommendations for enhancing student engagement and overall learning outcomes.

6. Timeline

The proposed research will be conducted over a period of 12 months, including data collection, analysis, and report writing.

The estimated budget for this research includes expenses related to data collection, software licenses, participant compensation, and research assistance. A detailed budget breakdown will be provided in the final research plan.

8. Conclusion

This research proposal aims to investigate the impact of online education on student learning outcomes through a comparative study with traditional face-to-face instruction. By exploring various dimensions of online education, this research will provide valuable insights into the effectiveness and challenges associated with online learning. The findings will contribute to the ongoing discourse on educational practices and help shape future strategies for maximizing student learning outcomes in online education settings.

About the author

Muhammad Hassan

Researcher, Academic Writer, Web developer

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The Ultimate Guide to Writing a Literature Review for a Research Proposal

• backlinkworks
• Writing Articles & Reviews
• September 28, 2023

The Ultimate Guide to writing a Literature Review for a Research Proposal

A literature review is a critical analysis of published sources, such as books, journal articles, and dissertations, on a specific topic. IT is an essential component of a research proposal as IT demonstrates your knowledge and understanding of the existing literature related to your research question. This guide will provide you with valuable insights and tips to effectively write a literature review that will impress your readers.

Understanding the Purpose of a Literature Review

Before diving into the process of writing a literature review, IT is crucial to understand its purpose. A literature review serves several purposes:

• To identify gaps in existing research and highlight the need for your study
• To provide a theoretical framework for your research
• To establish the credibility and authority of your work by demonstrating your knowledge of previously published studies
• To show how your research contributes to the existing body of knowledge

Selecting Relevant Sources

The first step in writing a literature review is to identify and select credible and relevant sources. Start by brainstorming keywords related to your research topic and use them to search in academic databases, such as Google Scholar, PubMed, or Scopus. Make sure to include a mix of primary and secondary sources to ensure a comprehensive review.

Primary sources are original research articles or studies, while secondary sources are reviews, meta-analyses, and theoretical papers that summarize and analyze existing research. IT is essential to select sources that are recent, reputable, and directly related to your research question.

Organizing Your Literature Review

The structure of your literature review depends on the purpose, scope, and direction of your research proposal. However, a commonly used structure is as follows:

• Introduction: Provide an overview of the topic, its significance, and your research question.
• Body paragraphs: Organize your review thematically or chronologically. Thematic organization involves grouping studies based on common themes or concepts, while chronological organization highlights the historical development of research in the field.
• Analysis and discussion: Critically evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of each study and identify patterns, controversies, or gaps in the literature. Compare and contrast different studies and theories to support your arguments.
• Conclusion: Summarize the main findings of the literature review and highlight its implications for your research proposal.

writing Style and Tone

When writing a literature review, IT is essential to adopt an academic and objective tone. Avoid using first-person pronouns and focus on synthesizing and analyzing existing literature. Use linking words and phrases to ensure a smooth flow between paragraphs and concepts. Additionally, make sure to cite all your sources accurately using the appropriate citation style, such as APA, MLA, or Chicago.

A literature review is a crucial element of a research proposal that demonstrates your understanding of the existing research on a particular topic. By selecting relevant sources and organizing your review effectively, you can provide a comprehensive overview of the literature. Remember to maintain an objective tone and critically analyze the strengths and weaknesses of each study. A well-written literature review will not only enhance the credibility of your research proposal but also contribute to the overall body of knowledge in your field.

What is the recommended length for a literature review?

The length of a literature review varies depending on the requirements of the research proposal and the complexity of the topic. However, a literature review for a research proposal is typically around 1000-2000 words. IT is essential to maintain a balance between providing sufficient information and avoiding unnecessary repetitions.

Should I include every source I found in my literature review?

No, IT is not necessary to include every source you come across in your literature review. Instead, focus on selecting the most relevant and credible sources that directly contribute to your research question. Including too many sources can make your literature review lengthy and unfocused.

How do I know if a source is credible?

When assessing the credibility of a source, consider the author’s expertise, the reputation of the publishing journal or publisher, and the presence of peer-review. Additionally, ensure the information is supported by evidence and aligns with the existing body of knowledge.

Can I express my own opinions in a literature review?

A literature review should be an objective analysis of existing research rather than a platform for personal opinions. While you can provide a critical evaluation of the strengths and weaknesses of various studies, make sure to support your arguments with evidence from the literature.

Should I include a conclusion in my literature review?

Yes, IT is crucial to include a conclusion section in your literature review to summarize the main findings, highlight gaps or controversies, and suggest areas for further research. The conclusion ties your literature review together and demonstrates its significance in the context of your research proposal.

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Synthesizing three decades of digital servitization: a systematic literature review and conceptual framework proposal

• Theoretical article
• Open access
• Published: 08 May 2024

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• Pedro E. Minaya   ORCID: orcid.org/0000-0002-1179-9378 1 ,
• Lucía Avella   ORCID: orcid.org/0000-0003-2598-7318 2 &
• Juan A. Trespalacios   ORCID: orcid.org/0000-0003-0658-4038 2  

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This study, through a systematic literature review spanning 1990 to 2023, interrogates how servitization, and nowadays digital servitization, enhances manufacturing competitiveness. It introduces the DASOBI (Drivers, Actors, Strategies, Obstacles, Benefits, and Impact) framework for navigating the digital servitization transition, emphasizing strategic adaptability and technological alignment. Analysis of 157 articles reveals a significant increase in research, highlighting digital servitization’s role in competitive enhancement and customer engagement. The DASOBI framework offers manufacturers a novel approach for managing this transition, marking a unique contribution by distilling extensive literature into actionable insights for both theory and practice in the evolving field of digital servitization.

Avoid common mistakes on your manuscript.

1 Introduction

1.1 context, motivation, and research topic.

In today’s dynamic manufacturing sector, companies are increasingly acknowledging the importance of complementing their product offerings with value-added services. This strategic shift, known as servitization—and more specifically digital servitization—marks a fundamental turn in the contemporary business paradigm. This transformation involves not only a shift from a product-centric to a service-centric focus but also a deep integration of advanced digital technologies. While considerable research has been conducted on individual aspects of servitization, a comprehensive analysis that encompasses all essential facets of this phenomenon, from its motivations to its final outcomes, remains relatively unexplored. This research proposal aims to develop a holistic conceptual framework that synthesizes and extends existing knowledge, thereby providing a more complete and nuanced understanding of digital servitization. This exhaustive review examines this evolving business model, highlighting its key benefits and challenges, its intersection with digital technologies, and its theoretical and practical implications.

The foundational premise, supported by Bustinza et al. ( 2015 ), suggests that manufacturing companies can achieve higher returns by offering services in conjunction with their products, a claim echoed in seminal works by Davies et al. ( 2007 ), Johnstone et al. ( 2009 ), Martín-Peña et al. ( 2017 ), and Leoni and Aria ( 2021 ). These services, ranging from maintenance and support to more sophisticated and customized solutions, expand the revenue streams of these firms. In this context, the contributions of Baines et al. ( 2007 ) and Neely et al. ( 2011 ) are pivotal, as they underscore how transitioning to a service-oriented market is driving strategic transformations in manufacturing firms, emphasizing value creation and differentiation in increasingly competitive markets (Brady et al. 2005 ).

The current market dynamics almost make this shift imperative. As noted by Sandström et al. ( 2008 ) and Tukker ( 2015 ), companies that limit their offerings to products alone face formidable challenges in maintaining profitability, driving them toward business model innovation that incorporates services into their product portfolios, as discussed in the literature by Gebauer and Fleisch ( 2007 ), Visnjic and Van Looy ( 2013 ), and Díaz-Garrido et al. ( 2018 ).

Servitization requires effective coordination among multiple stakeholders. Alghisi and Saccani ( 2015 ) address the critical importance of internal and external alignment, while Ayala et al. ( 2019 ) highlight the essential role of service providers in the successful adoption of servitization strategies. Moreover, Baines et al. ( 2011 ) and Lightfoot et al. ( 2013 ) explore how manufacturing firms can effectively integrate services into their product portfolio, emphasizing the importance of a strategically well-planned approach.

Beyond being a customer-facing strategy, the internal benefits are equally compelling. As delineated by Kamp and Alcalde ( 2014 ), servitization facilitates process optimization and extends the lifespan of machinery. These advantages are further enhanced with the incorporation of digital technologies, particularly in the era of Industry 4.0 (Kamp and Perry 2017 ). This digital servitization, explored in studies by Lee et al. ( 2014 ), Kans and Ingwald ( 2016 ), and Paiola and Gebauer ( 2020 ), offers an enhanced layer of value, encompassing innovative goods and services.

Researchers such as Favoretto et al. ( 2022 ) and Rabetino et al. ( 2023 ) have elucidated how technological advancements act as catalysts for developing differentiated products and services, thereby enhancing competitiveness (Müller et al. 2021 ). This leads to the formulation of hybrid business models, termed Product-Service Systems (PSS), which are economically, socially, and environmentally sustainable. This PSS model provides a more holistic solution, meeting specific customer needs beyond just providing functional products (Barquet et al. 2013 ).

In this process, a demand for specific organizational and technological capabilities is identified. Coreynen et al. ( 2017 ) and Schroeder et al. ( 2022 ) have pinpointed the importance of organizational structure and technological capabilities, particularly in the context of digitalization, as key factors for a successful transition to digital servitization (Parida et al. 2014 ; Kanninen et al. 2017 ).

Implementing servitization, as highlighted by Mathieu ( 2001 ) and Yu and Sung ( 2023 ), is not without its challenges, ranging from internal organizational resistance to external factors, such as customer reluctance. Brax ( 2005 ) and Benedettini et al. ( 2015 ) provide a comprehensive analysis of these risks, emphasizing the importance of effective management to navigate potential obstacles in achieving successful servitization (Windahl and Lakemond 2006 ; Pessôa and Becker 2017 ). The process demands a well-structured and strategically informed approach, incorporating both business and customer perspectives. Proper implementation of servitization can lead to substantial benefits, as demonstrated by Baines et al. ( 2009b , 2017 ) and Wang et al. ( 2018 ), highlighting its potential for long-term value creation (Brady et al. 2005 ).

The phenomenon of servitization, particularly in its digital form, has emerged as a prominent area of study, characterized by its complexity and multidimensionality. Academic literature has thoroughly explored this concept, from underlying motivations to implementation strategies, examining both inherent challenges and potential benefits (Raddats et al. 2016 ; Rabetino et al. 2021 ).

1.2 Research gap

Despite the extensive body of knowledge on servitization amassed by previous studies, there remains a discernible gap characterized by fragmented examinations rather than a consolidated analytical approach. This study pinpoints a need for a unified framework that can effectively guide servitization strategies, addressing this lacuna as a pivotal area for forthcoming research (Calabrese et al. 2019 ; Kohtamäki et al. 2020a ). The advent of the digital era has precipitated transformative shifts, underscoring the servitization concept—the transition from purely selling products to offering integrated product-service solutions. Nevertheless, the interaction between servitization and digital technologies, a realm referred to as digital servitization, remains a relatively uncharted territory. This area lacks a systematic and thorough review spanning the last three decades. This omission highlights the imperative need for an in-depth understanding of how servitization has evolved and the essential development of a framework to adeptly navigate the intricacies involved in implementing these strategies effectively.

1.3 Methodology proposed

To address the identified research gap, our study employs a comprehensive, multi-phased methodology structured as follows: Initially, we conduct an in-depth examination of the literature on servitization and digital servitization. This phase aims to develop an integrative theoretical framework that captures the evolution of servitization over the past three decades, emphasizing the shift toward digital service delivery within the manufacturing sector. Subsequently, the study undertakes a systematic literature review to classify the existing body of work. This review specifically focuses on selecting pertinent studies that encompass both traditional and digital servitization, aiming to identify trends, patterns, and existing research gaps. Following the review, we perform a detailed analysis of the selected articles to explore how various aspects of servitization and digital servitization interact and influence each other. In the final phase, we synthesize the findings from the study to deepen the conceptual understanding of the servitization phenomenon, including its digital components. This synthesis will provide valuable insights into effectively managing the transition toward servitization and digital servitization, highlighting its practical applicability in a business context.

1.4 Expected contributions

The primary goal of this research is to construct an integrative framework that captures the evolution, current state, and future trajectory of servitization and digital servitization. This framework will delineate both the theoretical underpinnings and practical ramifications of servitization, illuminating the challenges and opportunities that have surfaced. Particularly, it will explore the transformative influence of Industry 4.0 technologies—such as the Internet of Things, Big Data analytics, and Artificial Intelligence—on traditional servitization models, steering them toward more advanced digital practices. This examination is crucial for understanding how digital technologies can enhance the competitiveness and value proposition of manufacturing firms engaged in servitization.

The overarching aim of this study is to deepen the comprehension of servitization by exploring its interplay with digitalization, thus broadening its theoretical and managerial relevance. The research intends to offer an integrated perspective that not only advances the academic discourse in this field but also aids manufacturing companies in adeptly navigating the complexities of servitization and digital servitization. Furthermore, this review will articulate a roadmap for manufacturers considering this transition, conceptually enriching a domain that, despite its increasing importance, remains underexplored in scholarly research. By highlighting the enduring interest in adopting servitization correctly and underscoring the necessity for a unified theoretical framework, this study responds to calls for theoretical consolidation and a more comprehensive research agenda (Pettigrew 1988 ; Pye and Pettigrew 2005 ).

In summary, our proposed study aims to provide a detailed analysis that integrates insights from various studies into a cohesive narrative, with a particular focus on the servitization and digital servitization processes within the manufacturing sector. This synthesis will significantly contribute to both academic knowledge and practical applications, emphasizing the complex and evolving nature of servitization in manufacturing, and marking a key conclusion of this thorough examination.

2 Research aims

This study is dedicated to a comprehensive analysis of the servitization phenomenon and its progression toward digital servitization within the manufacturing sector, meticulously examining the most significant research from the past 30 years. The aim is to understand the development and various applications of servitization, along with the challenges and obstacles it entails. The study seeks to identify the motivations driving companies toward servitization, examine the various actors involved in the process and their interplay, and explore the strategies necessary for successful implementation. Furthermore, the organizational and technological capabilities required for transitioning to servitization will be analyzed, as well as the associated risks and challenges, including both internal and external hurdles that companies must overcome to reap the potential benefits of servitization. This analysis is guided by key research in the field (Zhang and Banerji 2017 ; Khanra et al. 2021 ) offering a comprehensive perspective on this significant shift in business dynamics within the manufacturing sector.

Essentially, this study seeks to answer the main research question: To what extent do servitization and digital servitization provide benefits that contribute to enhancing a company’s competitiveness? Alongside this primary question, the study intends to address the following aspects related to the development of servitization and digital servitization:

RQ1. Implementation of a digital servitization strategy. How it should be affected by the company’s business environment? How it should be the co-creation process in an international context? Which new knowledge and new skills need to be developed to be implemented correctly? Which benefits can be obtained by implementing the digital enablers of Industry 4.0? Which changes could it involve in the internal structure of the business? Which changes could it involve in the company’s business environment (relations with suppliers or strategic partners)? How could it face the challenges and obstacles that arise during the transition process?

RQ2. Benefits of developing an effective digital servitization strategy. How it provides greater value to the customer? How can product customization be optimized? How it encourages access to new markets? How it promotes gaining new customers? How it allows innovation in ideas or business models? How it allows the development of goods with novel services? How it effectively allows greater returns to be achieved? How it improves competitiveness?

The focus of this study is not only on analyzing servitization as a strategic shift for manufacturing companies but also on exploring how the integration of digital technologies can enrich and complicate this process. Additionally, the aim is to synthesize existing knowledge to provide a broader and more nuanced understanding of digital servitization, highlighting its key advantages, challenges, and intersection with digital technologies.

Four stages were established for this systematic literature review (Tranfield et al. 2003 ), one for each of the four phases outlined in the first section.

This collection focuses on four fields of research: business administration, marketing, operations management, and administration of services. The studies from the two main databases were examined: Web of Science and Scopus, as they are considered reference sources for the topic being analyzed. Once the information was screened, the most-cited studies were selected, which formed the basis for the present study.

3.1 Review process

In conducting a systematic literature review to gain a profound understanding of servitization and digital servitization within the manufacturing sector, our approach integrated multiple rigorous methodologies (Thomé et al. 2016 ). Initially, following the method proposed by Hertzberg and Rudner ( 1999 ), we conducted a meticulous keyword search in the Web of Science and Scopus databases, aiming to identify pertinent literature using terms like “servitization,” “digital servitization,” and their variants. This was instrumental in capturing the subject’s breadth and depth, allowing for the creation of search strings using the Boolean connector OR. The search strings were incorporated in titles, abstracts, and/or keywords, adhering to the time span of 1990 to 2023 in major databases, thus fulfilling the guidelines set by Tranfield et al. ( 2003 ) for inclusion criteria.

To further refine the search and ensure a robust database, we applied additional parameters and restrictions post-establishing the primary search strings for both databases. We limited our search to open access and hybrid gold journals, focusing on high-quality, readily available research outputs. Additionally, we set a citation threshold to include articles with significant field impact, thereby ensuring the inclusion of seminal works and recent influential studies. This strategy was pivotal in developing a comprehensive, relevant collection of literature, ensuring the inclusion of the most pertinent works in the field of digital servitization.

The approach was enhanced by strictly adhering to three key inclusion criteria: (a) considering publications from 1990 to 2023, to ensure a contemporary and comprehensive review, (b) prioritizing articles from prestigious academic journals within the relevant study areas, thus ensuring source quality and relevance, and (c) selecting articles focusing explicitly on key aspects of servitization and digital servitization. This approach, aligned with the study’s objectives and research questions, ensures a holistic and detailed understanding of the phenomenon, accurately reflecting the dynamics and transformations in the manufacturing sector.

The present study aimed to answer the research question and the various related questions. This was done via the PRISMA method (Preferred Reporting Items for Systemic Reviews and Meta-Analyses). The selection criteria produced 647 articles (from Web of Science) and 630 articles (from Scopus). Once identified, the abstracts of each article were read to screen and select only those in line with the fourth study phase: to help properly understand the concept, how it is managed, and how it is applied. 157 articles were ultimately identified that met all of the inclusion criteria. Figure  1 outlines the PRISMA method used.

Source: Authors’ own work from Web of Science and Scopus databases

Flow diagram, based on the PRISMA Method, for the selection of relevant documents for the systematic literature review.

3.2 Descriptive analysis

Figure 2 offers an analytical synthesis of the publication trends within the realms of servitization and digital servitization over a span of more than three decades, utilizing data harvested from the Web of Science and Scopus databases. The blue bars across all three charts articulate the volume of literature pertaining to servitization, encompassing its theoretical underpinnings, industry applications, and cross-disciplinary studies. This scholarly corpus embodies the foundational and evolutionary aspects of servitization as a strategic paradigm shift in manufacturing and service industries.

Source: Web of Science and Scopus databases and authors’ own work

Evolution of publications on Servitization and Digital Servitization (1990–2023).

In parallel, the orange bars specifically chart the trajectory of literature focused on digital servitization. This subset of research delves into the intricacies of embedding digital technologies within traditional servitization frameworks. It illuminates the burgeoning intersection of digital innovation and service strategies, reflecting a vibrant and rapidly advancing frontier of research.

The upward trend of both blue and orange bars in the separate charts for Web of Science and Scopus indicates a robust increase in scholarly output. This not only testifies to the growing academic and practical significance of servitization concepts but also their digital counterparts, which are pivotal in today’s technology-driven marketplaces.

The application of inclusion and exclusion criteria to the study of servitization and digital servitization clarifies the focus of academic research, emphasizing the most relevant and impactful studies in these areas. This refined approach highlights the critical and emerging conversations shaping the future of manufacturing industries through servitization and its digital augmentation. The graph reflects the scholarly community’s increasing investment in understanding these concepts and their application, suggesting a dual focus: the persistent importance of servitization in strengthening the interplay between manufacturing and services, and the transformative potential of digital technologies within this framework. Serving both as a retrospective and a forecast, the visualization indicates key areas for future research that promise to advance industrial practices and academic thought.

Regarding the countries in which the identified studies have been carried out, the visual data presented in Fig.  3 captures a comprehensive view of the global research output on servitization and digital servitization from 1990 to 2023, as indexed by the Web of Science and Scopus databases and further refined by the application of inclusion and exclusion criteria. The top section, shown in blue, delineates the Web of Science data, indicating a prominent concentration of scholarly activity within certain countries, possibly linked to their robust research infrastructures, funding provisions, or strong manufacturing sectors that are conducive to studies in servitization.

Source: Web of Science and Scopus databases

Number of publications by country on Servitization and Digital Servitization (1990–2023).

The middle section, in orange, portrays the Scopus data, revealing a parallel distribution pattern to that of the Web of Science but with slight variances that may be indicative of the different regional research emphases or variations in the databases’ indexing methodologies. The countries with the highest volume of publications are recognized as potential centers of excellence and innovation in the field of servitization.

The bottom section of the graph, in green, represents the distilled essence of this academic output following the application of the inclusion and exclusion criteria. This section emphasizes the refined and concentrated scholarly work that aligns more closely with the specific nuances and requirements of servitization and digital servitization research as defined by the study. It presents a narrower but more focused spectrum of publications, suggesting a curated body of knowledge that serves as a critical resource for understanding the current state and future directions of servitization in the manufacturing sector.

Together, these three segments of Fig.  3 not only illustrate the quantitative aspects of the research output but also underscore the qualitative focus and depth of scholarly exploration achieved through rigorous selection. This tripartite analysis offers a lens through which to view the international dissemination and development of knowledge in servitization and digital servitization, highlighting established leaders in the field as well as regions with the potential for increased research activity, international collaboration, and contribution to the servitization discourse.

In Fig.  4 , the Web of Science data (represented by the blue graph) lists Oscar Bustinza as the author with the highest number of publications, closely followed by Marko Kohtamäki and Vinit Parida. In contrast, the Scopus data (illustrated by the orange graph) also positions Vinit Parida prominently, yet Marko Kohtamäki’s publication count is lower than that reported in the Web of Science, presenting a notable discrepancy.

Number of publications by author on Servitization and Digital Servitization (1990–2023).

When the inclusion and exclusion criteria are applied (as shown in the green graph), there is a decrease in the number of publications, which aligns with expectations, given that these criteria aim to omit publications failing to meet the predetermined standards of quality and relevance. Following this filtration, Tim Baines emerges as the author with the most publications, indicating the significant relevance of his research work to the focused aims of this systematic literature review. Consequently, the filtration process underscores those authors whose contributions are particularly central or foundational to the field.

The comparison across the three graphs demonstrates the influence of database selection and methodological rigor on the perceived prominence of authors within the academic community. This analysis goes beyond merely highlighting the leading figures in servitization research; it underscores the importance of thorough evaluation in literature reviews to identify research of substantial impact.

Thus, the filtration process distinctly recognizes authors whose contributions are considered pivotal to the discipline.

Figure  5 provides a succinct overview of journal publication volumes on servitization and digital servitization from 1990 to 2023, based on data from Web of Science and Scopus databases. Prior to applying inclusion and exclusion criteria, the journals listed in the Web of Science (blue) and Scopus (orange) indicate a diverse quantity of publications.

Number of publication volume in journals with the highest frequency of articles on Servitization and Digital Servitization (1990–2023).

Post-application (green), the data are refined to highlight the top ten journals that are most aligned with the research criteria. It is noteworthy that the application of these criteria significantly alters the landscape of the considered literature. Some journals that initially (in the Web of Science or Scopus databases) had a high volume of publications appear to have fewer articles meeting the requirements, which may reflect on the specificity and relevance of their contributions to the field.

The graphic serves as an insightful metric of the research landscape, indicating not only the journals that are most prolific in the domain but also the robustness of articles surviving rigorous scholarly scrutiny. This visual representation is integral to the academic discourse, as it not only informs researchers of the core journals within the field but also reflects the evolving standards and focal areas within the literature on servitization and digital servitization.

The descriptive analyses included in this section serve as a pivotal foundation for the authors’ elaboration, shedding light on the trajectory of academic inquiry into servitization and digital servitization. It encapsulates the dual analysis conducted using the Web of Science and Scopus databases and the meticulous selection process leading to the corpus of papers employed in the systematic literature review. The synthesis of these findings offers valuable insights into the progression of research in this domain, indicating a maturing yet dynamically expanding field of study.

3.3 Classification process

Upon identifying studies that met the established selection criteria, a thorough examination of each was conducted to categorize them according to specific themes. These encompassed the motivations driving companies toward servitization, namely the reasons why manufacturers transition from producing solely goods to combining these with services, including the anticipated benefits of such a transformation. The various actors involved in the servitization process and the nature of their interactions were scrutinized, as well as the strategies necessary for successful implementation, which entailed identifying potential needs for external partners, commonly service providers (Martínez et al. 2010 ; Bastl et al. 2012 ; Spring and Araujo 2013 ; Ziaee et al. 2018 ). The types of services commonly offered were analyzed, categorized as basic, intermediate, or advanced, along with the specific servitization strategies adopted by the companies. Furthermore, the study delved into the organizational and technological capabilities required for an effective transition to servitization (Momeni et al. 2023 ), as well as the potential risks and challenges arising in these transition processes, including both internal and external obstacles that must be overcome to fully capitalize on the potential benefits of servitization (Raddats et al. 2017 ; Reim et al. 2019 ; Minaya et al. 2023 ).

4 Results: theoretical background

4.1 from servitization to digital servitization.

The concept of servitization, which has significantly evolved over the years, has achieved solid recognition in both the academic and industrial spheres. Initially defined by Levitt ( 1972 ) and Vandermerwe and Rada ( 1988 ) as the process of adding value through services (Johnson and Mena 2008 ; Baines et al. 2011 ; Lindman et al. 2016 ; Ruiz-Martín and Díaz-Garrido 2021 ), servitization has expanded to encompass multiple strategic objectives, such as competitive advantage (Baines et al. 2009a ; Raddats et al. 2019 ), financial goals, and marketing benefits (Khanra et al. 2021 ).

The shift toward servitization entails a redefinition of traditional business models, focusing on innovation (Sandström et al. 2008 ; Martín-Peña et al. 2018 ; Qi et al. 2020 ; Xing et al. 2023 ), and transforming manufacturers into service-centric companies (Cusumano 2008 ; Santamaría et al. 2012 ; Mosch et al. 2021 ). In this regard, manufacturing companies are fundamentally reorienting their business models and operational strategies to include value-added services (Gebauer and Kowalkowski 2012 ; Hyun and Kim 2021 ). Baines and Lightfoot ( 2013 ) and Luoto et al. ( 2017 ) highlight the widespread changes this implies in management, marketing, and operations. The change is so substantial that over 50% of a company’s activities and personnel can be involved in providing these newly implemented services, as indicated by multiple studies cited by Martín-Peña and Ziaee ( 2016 ). This is because research has shown that servitization not only adds value but also increases profitability with relatively low asset investments (Davies et al. 2007 ; Kharlamov and Parry 2021 ).

The types of services offered range from basic to advanced (Gebauer et al. 2013 ; Kindström and Kowalkowski 2014 ; Sousa and Da Silveira 2017 ), with advanced services contributing to greater profitability (Eggert et al. 2014 ) and generating higher customer satisfaction (Mont 2002 ; Ostrom et al. 2010 ), leading to improved competitive positioning (Oliva and Kallenberg 2003 ; Durugbo 2014 ). Baines et al. ( 2011 ) argue that servitization involves creating distinctive and sustainable capabilities (Raddats 2011 ; Kimita et al. 2022 ), requiring not just the provision of goods, but also the innovation of value through added services (Tukker and Tischner 2006 ; García Martín et al. 2019 ; Zighan and Abualqumboz 2022 ), enabling companies to maintain their competitive edge (Tuli et al. 2007 ; Brax and Jonsson 2009 ; Nordin and Kowalkowski 2010 ).

While the goal of servitization is to enrich product offerings and drive competitiveness (Neely et al. 2011 ; Gaiardelli et al. 2014 ; Benedettini et al. 2015 ), companies must avoid the “service paradox,” where the focus on new services undermines existing production capabilities (Gebauer et al. 2005 ; Hyun and Kim 2021 ). To this end, various researchers advocate for a comprehensive analysis covering customer needs, pricing strategies, delivery infrastructure, and organizational change (Manzini and Vezzoli 2003 ; Kohtamäki and Partanen 2016 ; Ziaee et al. 2017 ). In summary, moving away from product-centric thinking and engaging in product and servitization logic.

In this context, Santamaría et al. ( 2012 ) and Rabetino et al. ( 2017 ) underscore three fundamental considerations for a successful servitization strategy: the content, process, and context of organizational change. This involves determining what to change, how to change, and why the change is necessary (Kreye et al. 2015 ).

The complexity of servitization also demands internal and external alignments within companies (Gebauer 2008 ; Alghisi and Saccani 2015 ; Kohtamäki et al. 2019a ; Zhang et al. 2023 ). Internally, this involves harmonizing the organization’s strategy with the service portfolio and aligning this strategy throughout the organization (Oliva and Kallenberg 2003 ; Yan et al. 2020 ). Externally, alignment extends to the service provider network and customer expectations (Ceci and Masini 2011 ; Paiola et al. 2013 ). Similarly, servitization applies in B2B and B2C domains, serving as a differentiator and pathway to future alliances and customer loyalty (Baines et al. 2017 ; Pombo and Franco 2023 ).

On the other hand, technological advancements act as significant facilitators in the transition toward servitization, particularly the digital elements of Industry 4.0 (Dalenogare et al. 2018 ; Paschou et al. 2020 ; Opazo-Basáez et al. 2021 ; Tian et al. 2022 ; Le-Dain et al. 2023 ). This involves both internal and external organizational changes, focusing on disruptive innovations and addressing legal and financial challenges (Bustinza et al. 2018 ; Tronvoll et al. 2020 ; Kolagar et al. 2022 ), leading to what is known as digital servitization.

Digital servitization represents the integration of enabling technologies from Industry 4.0 into the servitization process, generating additional benefits and creating value for the customer (Ibarra et al. 2018 ; Grandinetti et al. 2020 ; Ciasullo et al. 2021 ; Bettiol et al. 2022 ). This digital transformation expands the scope of traditional services, allowing for greater customization and efficiency (Frank et al. 2019 ; Chen et al. 2021 ).

Digitalization facilitates data collection and analysis, improving decision-making, and enabling more predictive and proactive services (Lee et al. 2014 ; Chen et al. 2022a ; Rakic et al. 2022 ). Moreover, data-based digital capabilities are fundamental for the success of digital servitization, as they enhance both product support services and customer support services (Chen et al. 2023 ).

Digital servitization also promotes value co-creation and collaboration among manufacturers, suppliers, and customers, optimizing service delivery and strengthening relationships (Coreynen et al. 2017 ; Vendrell-Herrero et al. 2017 ; Kohtamäki et al. 2020b ; Sjödin et al. 2020 ). The business models of digital servitization are also influenced by Industry 4.0 technologies, such as Internet of Things and Big Data, enabling the development of more integrated and customer-centric solutions (Naik et al. 2020 ; Bortoluzzi et al. 2022 ; Minaya et al.  2023 ).

Furthermore, an integral aspect of the servitization landscape, especially in the digital era, is the evolution of Product-Service Systems (PSS). PSS represents a strategic approach that shifts the focus from selling products to offering a combination of products and services designed to fulfill specific customer needs more efficiently (Tukker and Tischner 2006 ; Baines et al. 2017 ). This transition to PSS reflects a broader industry movement toward sustainable and customer-centric business models, where the value proposition extends beyond the physical product to include personalized services. The advent of Industry 4.0 technologies has further propelled this evolution, leading to the development of Smart PSS. Smart PSS integrates digital technologies, such as the Internet of Things, Big Data, and Artificial Intelligence to enhance service delivery, improve customer experience and enable new forms of value creation (Chowdhury et al. 2018 ; Bortoluzzi et al. 2022 ). The adoption of these advanced technologies within PSS frameworks represents a significant leap in how companies’ approach servitization, allowing for greater customization, efficiency, and proactive engagement with customers. Therefore, understanding the role and impact of PSS, particularly Smart PSS, is crucial for comprehending the full scope of digital servitization and its implications for future business strategies.

4.2 Integrating smart product-service systems (smart PSS) into digital servitization: evolution, challenges, and opportunities

Product-Service Systems (PSS) epitomize an evolution in business models, integrating goods and services to fulfill customer needs sustainably and effectively (Galbraith 2002 ; Gebauer et al. 2011 ; Oliveira et al. 2015 ; Haase et al. 2017 ; Gaiardelli et al. 2021 ; Zhou and Song 2021 ). Tukker ( 2004 ) categorizes PSS into product oriented, use oriented, and result oriented, with each type offering distinct benefits, such as improved profit margins and differentiation from competitors (Tukker and Tischner 2006 ; Reim et al. 2015 ; Baines et al. 2017 ; Rabetino et al. 2017 ). Service-oriented PSS prioritize personalized customer experiences, requiring greater customer involvement (Matthyssens and Vandenbempt 2010 ; Cusumano et al. 2014 ; Zighan and Abualqumboz 2022 ).

The advent of Industry 4.0 technologies has given rise to Smart PSS, enhancing traditional PSS frameworks with digital capabilities and aligning with digital servitization’s goals to maximize customer value and competitive advantage (Chowdhury et al. 2018 ; Zheng et al. 2019 ; Wang et al. 2021 ; Bortoluzzi et al. 2022 ; Chen et al. 2023 ). Smart PSS incorporate Internet of Things, Big Data, and Artificial Intelligence to offer tailored services and predictive maintenance, thus improving product reliability and customer experience. However, transitioning to Smart PSS necessitates overcoming internal challenges, such as developing digital capabilities and adapting organizational culture, and external challenges like aligning strategies with customer and supplier expectations (Alghisi and Saccani 2015 ; Baines and Shi 2015 ; Ceci and Masini 2011 ; Mosch et al. 2021 ).

Business models in the context of Smart PSS vary from product centered to service oriented, depending on the company’s servitization maturity and technological capacity, leading to greater competitive differentiation and new market opportunities (Kowalkowski et al. 2017 ; Zheng et al. 2019 ; Baines et al. 2020 ; Chen et al. 2021 ). Implementing Smart PSS calls for a holistic approach, from strategic planning to system design and operational management, with a focus on how digital capabilities enhance PSS offerings and the overall value chain (Coreynen et al. 2017 ; Zheng et al. 2018 ).

In sum, the transition from traditional servitization to digital servitization, through the deployment of Smart PSS, marks a critical shift in value creation and sustaining customer loyalty, propelled by Industry 4.0 innovations (Vandermerwe and Rada 1988 ; Frank et al. 2019 ; Pinillos et al. 2022 ; Raddats et al. 2022 ; Schroeder et al. 2022 ; Chen et al. 2023 ; Martín-Peña et al. 2023 ). Realizing the potential of digital servitization demands an understanding of technological capabilities, fostering innovation, and market adaptability (Kohtamäki et al. 2019b ; Zhang et al. 2023 ). Successful digital servitization and Smart PSS rely on integrating technology with strategic vision and customer centricity, cultivating a business model focused on collaboration, innovation, and value co-creation (Naik et al. 2020 ; Chen et al. 2021 ; Zhou et al. 2021 ; Kolagar et al. 2022 ).

4.3 Digital servitization: crafting superior value in the modern era

As previously noted, servitization, as it evolves into digital servitization, catalyzes a profound and strategic transformation of business models and operational paradigms, emphasizing the importance of both internal and external strategic alignments. This process not only optimizes existing service offerings but also unlocks significant potential for service innovation and market competitiveness. Specifically, the integration of advanced technologies in digital servitization allows companies to create superior and customized value for their customers. This expanded value creation is achieved through a synergistic combination of technological resources and human capabilities, facilitating more predictive, personalized, and proactive services. Thus, digital servitization emerges as an essential and transformative step in business strategy, driving not only efficiency and strategic alignment but also fostering innovation and strengthening competitive positioning in the market.

Digital servitization, a contemporary evolution of traditional servitization, integrates Industry 4.0 technologies into the service domain, creating significant value for the customer. This value manifests in several key dimensions, all driven by digitalization and the emerging capabilities it offers.

Enhanced personalization and customer experience. The ability to collect and analyze large volumes of data using digital technologies enables companies to better understand the needs and preferences of their customers (Tao and Qi 2017 ; Chen et al. 2023 ). This leads to the creation of more personalized service offerings, tailored specifically to individual customer requirements. For instance, data analytics capabilities enhance servitization by enabling service personalization, which is fundamental for improving customer satisfaction and fostering long-term loyalty (Chen et al. 2022b ).

Efficiency and proactivity in service delivery. Digital servitization allows companies to be more efficient and proactive in delivering services. Technologies like the Internet of Things and Artificial Intelligence facilitate remote monitoring and predictive maintenance, anticipating problems before they occur and minimizing downtime (Lee et al. 2014 ; Tao and Qi 2017 ; Raddats et al. 2022 ). This not only improves product reliability but also reduces costs for the customer.

Creation of new opportunities and business models. The integration of digital services opens new avenues for innovative business models. For example, companies can offer usage-based solutions or subscriptions, where customers pay for performance or outcomes rather than the product itself (Vendrell-Herrero et al. 2017 ; Martín-Peña et al. 2020 ; Bortoluzzi et al. 2022 ). This can result in greater flexibility and more attractive cost options for the customer.

Enhanced customer–supplier relationships. Digital servitization fosters greater collaboration and value co-creation between suppliers and customers (Coreynen et al. 2017 ; Sjödin et al. 2020 ; Harrmann et al. 2023 ). This is because digital capabilities enable smoother communication and more transparent information exchange, resulting in stronger and more reliable relationships (Davies et al. 2023 ).

Continuous improvement of products and services. Ongoing feedback and data analysis enable continuous improvement of the products and services offered. Companies can quickly adjust their offerings in response to customer feedback or market changes, ensuring that their services remain relevant and of high quality (Chen et al. 2021 ).

Access to new markets. Digital servitization enables companies to access new markets and customer segments. By offering digital solutions, companies can overcome geographical and logistical barriers, reaching customers who were previously inaccessible (Münch et al. 2022 ; Rakic et al. 2022 ).

In summary, digital servitization not only enhances existing service offerings but also opens new opportunities for service innovation, strategic alignment, and market competitiveness. Its successful implementation is key to creating substantial value for the customer, highlighting the importance of a well-planned and executed strategy in the context of modern servitization.

5 Proposed conceptual framework: guiding the transition to digital servitization

Digital servitization represents a pivotal shift in the business landscape, where manufacturing companies evolve into providers of comprehensive solutions that seamlessly integrate products and services, augmented by digital technologies. This transformation is driven by the need for enhanced competitiveness, customer engagement, and value creation in a rapidly changing digital economy.

The development of our DASOBI conceptual framework, designed to guide the transition to digital servitization, is grounded in a rigorous methodological approach, underpinned by a comprehensive systematic literature review. This review meticulously synthesized three decades of academic research and industry insights, incorporating a total of 157 articles. Our comprehensive review process involved a deep analysis of the most influential and relevant publications in the field, among which notable contributions include Alghisi and Saccani ( 2015 ); Ayala et al. ( 2017 , 2019 ); Coreynen et al. ( 2017 ); Tao and Qi ( 2017 ); Vendrell-Herrero et al. ( 2017 ); Bustinza et al. ( 2018 ); Frank et al. ( 2019 ); Baines et al. ( 2020 ); Martín-Peña et al. ( 2020 ); Naik et al. ( 2020 ); Brax et al. ( 2021 ); Gaiardelli et al. ( 2021 ); Kohtamäki et al. ( 2021 ); Bettiol et al. ( 2022 ); Bortoluzzi et al. ( 2022 ); Marcon et al. ( 2022 ); Münch et al. ( 2022 ); Brekke et al. ( 2023 ); Chen et al. ( 2023 ); Chirumalla et al. ( 2023 ); Shen et al. ( 2023 ). These articles were particularly significant for identifying emerging trends, key challenges, and effective strategies in digital servitization. By systematically analyzing this extensive body of literature, we identified critical themes, challenges, strategies, and outcomes associated with the digital servitization journey. This analysis not only highlighted the multifaceted nature of digital servitization but also emphasized the critical importance of aligning strategic considerations, technological capabilities, and stakeholder roles to successfully navigate this complex transition. The structured framework presented herein not only reflects the evolution of the field but also provides clear guidance for manufacturing companies advancing toward more sophisticated and digitalized servitization practices.

The DASOBI framework, while empirically grounded in a comprehensive literature review, also draws extensively on classical and emerging theories to provide a robust theoretical foundation. For instance, diffusion of innovations theory (Rogers 2003 ) elucidates the “Drivers” and “Obstacles” in the adoption of digital servitization by explaining the rate and process through which new technological innovations spread within industries. Furthermore, the resource-based view (Barney 1991 ) is instrumental in understanding the “Strategies” component of the framework, emphasizing the importance of internal capabilities and resources in gaining a competitive advantage through digital transformation. These theoretical integrations not only enhance the academic rigor of our framework but also offer a deeper understanding of the multifaceted nature of digital servitization.

Therefore, the proposed DASOBI (Drivers, Actors, Strategies, Obstacles, Benefits, and Impact) model emerges as a synthesis of empirical evidence and theoretical insights, designed to offer a coherent and actionable guide for organizations seeking to embrace digital servitization.

This conceptual framework delineates a roadmap for organizations to navigate this complex transition. The framework identifies the core components essential for a successful journey toward digital servitization:

Underlying reasons for the shift (Drivers). Recognizing the strategic imperatives for transitioning toward a digital servitization model is critical. This includes understanding market dynamics, competitive pressures, and technological advancements driving this change.

Key actors involved (Actors). Successful digital servitization necessitates the involvement and alignment of various stakeholders, including internal teams, customers, technology partners, and suppliers. Their roles, expectations, and contributions are pivotal in shaping the servitization journey.

Strategic considerations and tools (Strategies). This encompasses adopting strategic frameworks, methodologies, and digital tools that are conducive to servitization. These tools and strategies should facilitate the integration of digital technologies with traditional product-service offerings, ensuring a seamless transition.

Potential challenges and obstacles (Obstacles). Identifying and addressing challenges such as cultural resistance, skill gaps, technological complexities, and integration issues with existing processes is crucial. Proactive strategies and contingency plans are essential to mitigate these barriers.

Anticipated benefits of the transition (Benefits). The transition to digital servitization should bring about significant benefits, including enhanced customer value, increased revenue streams, and improved competitive positioning. This component focuses on quantifying these benefits and aligning them with organizational goals.

Expected outcomes and impact (Impact). The final component of the framework revolves around the tangible outcomes and impacts of digital servitization. This includes enhanced customer satisfaction, increased market share, and improved operational efficiency.

In the digital servitization framework, the transition toward digital servitization, driven by market dynamics, competitive pressures, and technological advancements, is intrinsically linked to the roles and contributions of key stakeholders, such as internal teams, customers, and technology partners. Strategic considerations and tools must be selected in light of potential challenges, like cultural resistance and skill gaps, ensuring alignment with stakeholder capabilities and expectations for a seamless integration of digital technologies with traditional offerings. This strategic alignment is pivotal in overcoming obstacles and realizing anticipated benefits, such as enhanced customer value and competitive positioning. These benefits, in turn, lead to tangible outcomes, like improved customer satisfaction and operational efficiency, which feedback into the market, influencing ongoing strategic imperatives and shaping the evolution of digital servitization strategies. This dynamic interplay highlights a continuous feedback loop where outcomes inform underlying reasons, reinforcing the need for adaptability and strategic foresight in the digital servitization journey.

The contribution of the DASOBI framework to the existing literature is manifold. By synthesizing empirical findings with theoretical insights from servitization and digital transformation research, this framework addresses identified gaps, such as the integration of digital technologies in traditional servitization models and the management of organizational changes associated with such transitions (Baines and Lightfoot 2013 ; Vargo and Lusch 2008 ). Specifically, the DASOBI framework aids in conceptualizing how companies can strategically navigate the complexities of digital servitization, providing a structured approach that is missing in previous studies. This not only extends the theoretical discourse around servitization but also sets a foundation for future research to explore the dynamic interactions between digital technologies and service strategies in manufacturing sectors.

In conclusion, this conceptual framework serves as a comprehensive guide for firms embarking on the digital servitization journey. It provides a structured approach to understanding and implementing the necessary changes, ensuring a smooth transition and realization of the potential benefits of digital servitization. Figure  6 summarizes this meticulously formulated model (DASOBI), referred to as the Drivers (underlying reasons for the shift), Actors (key actors involved), Strategies (strategic considerations and tools), Obstacles (potential challenges and obstacles), Benefits (anticipated benefits of the transition), and Impact (expected outcomes and impact) of Digital Servitization Strategy, offers a robust framework for scholarly exploration, grounded in an exhaustive review of extant literature.

Source: Authors’ own work

Conceptual theoretical model for the analysis of Digital Servitization.

The DASOBI framework orchestrates the shift from traditional service strategies to digitally-enhanced service offerings, underpinned by the alignment of core elements: Drivers, Actors, Strategy, Obstacles, Benefits, and Impact. The model emphasizes a strategic approach, incorporating digital catalytic factors to augment adaptability, customer-centric analytics, and the pursuit of novel revenue streams through digital innovations.

Within this framework, the digital knowledge and capability development are crucial. Firms must harness Big Data to distill customer insights, leverage Artificial Intelligence for identifying opportunities, and increase the flexibility of their service offerings via digital platforms. The role of digital service providers is pivotal, offering expertise to mitigate transition risks, assure service quality, and bolster productivity with cutting-edge technological solutions.

However, the shift is not without its challenges. The resistance to digital transformation and the complexity of measuring profitability in the digital service landscape can impede progress. Moreover, the implications of Industry 4.0 are profound, necessitating organizational restructuring, workforce upskilling, and technological investments to realize the potential of digital servitization.

The anticipated benefits of this digital shift are manifold. Enhanced customer understanding through sophisticated data analytics, improved market positioning through digital innovation, and elevated creative capability with advanced technology are but a few of the advantages. Furthermore, embracing Industry 4.0 technologies within digital servitization amplifies these benefits, leading to superior product quality via smart manufacturing, greater adaptability in production, and increased operational efficiency ensuring timely delivery.

In summary, the DASOBI model meticulously integrates the transition to digital servitization with the digital economy’s imperatives, presenting a coherent roadmap for firms aspiring to harness the full spectrum of benefits offered by Industry 4.0 innovations.

6 Conclusions, limitations, and further research

This study embarked on an exhaustive journey through three decades of literature on servitization and its evolution toward digital servitization within the manufacturing sector. Through a systematic literature review, we explored the strategic transformation that involves integrating advanced services and digital technologies into product offerings, a change driven by the need to enhance competitiveness, customer engagement, and value creation in a rapidly evolving digital economy.

Our research findings have identified key drivers, actors, strategies, challenges, and benefits associated with the transition toward digital servitization. The DASOBI conceptual framework tries to provide a structured guide for understanding and managing this complex transition. This framework emphasizes the importance of recognizing the underlying reasons for adopting digital servitization models, the necessity of aligning and collaborating with diverse stakeholders, and the use of specific strategies to overcome the inherent challenges of this process.

Despite this study’s contribution to the body of knowledge on digital servitization, we acknowledge several limitations. The geographical concentration of the research activity analyzed might limit the generalizability of our findings across diverse cultural and economic contexts. The rapid evolution of digital technologies and business models also suggests that the relevance of our discoveries could be challenged by future developments. Additionally, our research focused primarily on manufacturing firms, which limits the applicability of the findings to other sectors.

These limitations open several avenues for future research. It is imperative to validate and test the generalizability of the DASOBI framework across various organizational and industry contexts. Further research is also needed to develop specific metrics that can measure the impacts of digital servitization. Longitudinal studies could provide a deeper understanding of how servitization strategies influence business outcomes over time.

This study contributes to the academic discussion by clarifying and deepening the concept of servitization and its intersection with digitalization, offering an integrative view that can assist manufacturing firms in navigating the complex landscape of servitization and digital servitization. Although we have tried to establish a solid foundation for future research, it is evident that the field of digital servitization remains dynamic and evolving, requiring ongoing examination to fully comprehend its impact on business strategy and practice.

Data availability

The datasets generated during and/or analyzed during the current study are available from the corresponding author on reasonable request.

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Minaya, P.E., Avella, L. & Trespalacios, J.A. Synthesizing three decades of digital servitization: a systematic literature review and conceptual framework proposal. Serv Bus (2024). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11628-024-00559-x

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