Synthesizing and Reviewing Research Trends in Automation

Abstract

The objective of this paper is to develop a thorough understanding of the evolution of automation techniques throughout its time span. To achieve this, a literature review followed by classification schemes and simple Meta analysis have been presented in this paper. The literature review was based on journals collected for the study. A total of 234 articles were selected for the study. The study yielded 37 variables which formed the basis of classification schemes. The first classification scheme was conceptual while the second was functional. The entire study was grouped into these classification schemes. The classification schemes were the foundations for performing simple Meta analysis. The analysis was done under three categories, according to classification schemes, according to year of publication and according to journals. The results show various trends of automation throughout the years. In the end, the results are discussed in detail and future areas of research are identified.

Keywords: Automation techniques, Classification schemes, Meta analysis, Primary dimensions