Applications of agent-based modeling and simulation in organization management: a quarter-century review through bibliometric mapping (1998–2022)

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to review existing research on organization management that applied agent-based modeling and simulation (ABMS). First, we systematically identified 133 relevant articles published between 1998 and 2022 using the Web of Science (WoS) and EBSCOhost database. Second, we analyzed the characteristics of ABMS reported in the 133 articles. The results illustrated that the focal articles made extensive use of ABMS as a means of theory development and the enhancement of transparency was demanded. Third, we used a bibliometric mapping approach to analyze the 133 articles visually. The results identified 36 key terms and four clusters: team behaviors under complex environments, organizational structure and design, knowledge management in organizations, and organizational decision-making. The analysis also showed which key terms are used as research fronts and which terms are emerging. Lastly, we suggest five promising research opportunities that should either be continued or be addressed in organization management.