A Scientometric Analysis of User Experience: Exploring Evolution, Emerging Themes, and Impacts

This study examines the evolution of User Experience as a distinct field that emerged from human-computer interaction, analyzing 27,082 records dating back to 1985. Data were collected from the Web of Science Core Collection and examined using the R-tool for statistical analysis and visualization of co-citation networks, and CiteSpace for visualizing citation networks. Our analysis reveals a dynamic body of literature strongly influenced by engineering disciplines, with research progresses together with technological innovation. This development has gradually shifted researchers’ attention toward human perception, as they address challenges posed by increasing technological complexity and rising user expectations regarding quality experience. Moreover, the field demonstrates promising opportunities in healthcare applications and shift from theoretical frameworks to practical implementations. This study represents the first comprehensive scientometric analysis of User Experience research, providing critical insights into its developmental trajectory across various domains and offering a valuable resource for understanding and advancing User Experience research.