Purpose: This paper aims to explore the research field of digital transformation in small and medium enterprises (SMEs), considering the importance of SMEs in the economic development of countries.Design/methodology/approach: Considering the contributions of researchers and the challenges of SMEs to transform their business models, in this paper, the authors conducted a scientometric analysis using CiteSpace that included 448 documents indexed in Scopus.Findings: The authors appreciated the growth in the number of publications that have studied the digital transformation process in SMEs, showing a niche of researchers interested in the flourishing research topic. Likewise, the authors identified the intention of SMEs to adopt digital technologies such as artificial intelligence, big data, cloud computing, data analytics, electronic commerce and the Internet of Things.Practical implications: This paper is a valuable resource for academics and researchers in information systems, decision-makers in digital transformation in SMEs and governmental organisations concerned with digital technologies adoption in SMEs to achieve digital transformation and increase competitiveness and productivity.Originality/value: This study used CiteSpace to conduct a scientometric analysis to explore how researchers have focused on frameworks and maturity models for measuring SME readiness, the impact of Industry 4.0 on SMEs, guides for helping managers evaluate their Industry 4.0 positioning, the development and implementation of digital business strategies for SMEs, the presentation of cases of SMEs that have driven digital transformation and future research opportunities.

Purpose: This study examines the adoption of the Internet of Things (IoT) within the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) context, using a comprehensive scientometric analysis to map the evolution of IoT adoption.Design/methodology/approach: Utilising data sourced from Scopus and analysed through CiteSpace, this research encompasses documents from 2018 to early 2024. It employs a two-phase analysis methodology, starting with a descriptive exploration of publication trends that provides an overview of the IoT adoption field by presenting yearly publication statistics. The second phase of the study encompasses a detailed scientometric analysis, including co-citation and burst analysis.Findings: The research underscores significant growth in IoT adoption studies and their broadening impact across various sectors. Key advancements include addressing security challenges, integrating IoT with emerging technologies like blockchain and artificial intelligence (AI) and applying these in critical areas such as agriculture and healthcare.Practical implications: This article is a valuable resource for stakeholders in the digital ecosystem – including policymakers, educational institutions and industry leaders – engaged with IoT adoption in the context of the 4IR .Originality/value: This article contributes to the literature by providing a scientometric analysis that charts the development of IoT adoption research within the framework of the fourth industrial revolution, presenting a unique perspective on its integration with other cutting-edge technologies.