A tale of PLS Structural Equation Modelling: Episode I— A Bibliometrix Citation Analysis

Abstract The structure of knowledge about Structural Equation Modelling (SEM) based on the Partial Least Squares (PLS) estimator has been analysed by systematic and reproducible bibliometric citation analysis. This contribution aims to create a dynamic picture PLS-SEM research activity support scholars with an enhanced understanding history, present future directions this fascinating modelling approach. Analysis was conducted using Bibliometrix packageR documents extracted ( n = 3 , 854) from Web Science (WoS) database Clarivate. Hence, we find seminal papers in context as well diffusion use different domains, suggesting new applications. We also identify collaboration networks involving authors countries highlight potential for cooperation co-authorship international project standpoint. Furthermore, dynamics sources indicate interest journals field dissemination role, which can assist selecting suitable publisher. Finally, historiographic overview shows dominant topics possible evolution analysis theoretical application angles.