Understanding the knowledge structure and the value creation process of the metaverse

The metaverse is a digital space that empowers users to interact socially, using new and specific technologies, to generate value and co-create experiences. This paper provides a framework for organising the themes discussed in pioneering literature. An adaptation of the PRISMA process was used to explain the methodology applied. The results showed that more than 84 % of studies on the metaverse have been published since 2020. Technologies such as augmented reality and artificial intelligence are positioned as the basic themes, and decision-making and human-machine interface are emerging themes. This paper constitutes an original contribution as it also presents the highlights and structure of the main themes on metaverse. Additionally, it develops an analytical framework for understanding the metaverse value creation. Therefore, this paper represents a starting point for a reflection on the applications of the metaverse that can contribute to the achievement of productive and valuable progress in various fields of research.