Gaining Ground: How Technology Fuels Hotel Competitiveness-A Systematic Review of the Literature


Yolcu S., Şahin A., DİRSEHAN T.

Tourism Planning and Development, vol.23, no.3, pp.379-409, 2026 (ESCI, Scopus) identifier identifier

  • Publication Type: Article / Article
  • Volume: 23 Issue: 3
  • Publication Date: 2026
  • Doi Number: 10.1080/21568316.2025.2534903
  • Journal Name: Tourism Planning and Development
  • Journal Indexes: Emerging Sources Citation Index (ESCI), Scopus, ABI/INFORM, CAB Abstracts
  • Page Numbers: pp.379-409
  • Keywords: Competitiveness, digital transformation, hotel technology, operational efficiency, sustainability
  • Marmara University Affiliated: Yes

Abstract

This study explores the transformative role of technology in enhancing competitiveness in the hotel industry through bibliometric and cluster analysis. A systematic literature review following PRISMA guidelines was conducted, supported by bibliometric analysis using Biblioshiny and cluster visualization with VOSviewer. The findings reveal six key thematic clusters, emphasizing how technology improves operational efficiency, digitalization strategies, sustainability, performance management, and personalized services. These clusters highlight the strategic role of technology in driving customer satisfaction, optimizing revenue, and enabling data-driven decision-making. The study primarily relies on peer-reviewed journal publications, which may limit insights from industry reports and practitioner perspectives. By offering a strategic framework, this research aligns with the journal’s focus on competitiveness, demonstrating how digital transformation fosters differentiation, efficiency, and long-term market positioning in the hospitality sector.