Abstract The technological impact of scientific research is the cornerstone of innovation, but there is a lack of consensus on its definitions, terminology, and methodology, which can lead to underestimation of innovation and misallocation of resources. Therefore, this review uses systematic review to synthesizes how to define and measure technological impact, and what factors bridge the gap between scientific research and technological application. 258 studies from 5 databases met inclusion criteria focused on definitions, measurement methods, and influencing factors. In terms of definition, 4 definitions and 6 theoretical sources behind them were identified, reflecting the existing research that defines technological impact as knowledge flow, foundational resources, innovation driver or system reciprocity. 7 categories of measurement approaches were identified, covering indicators in 9 dimensions, and the data sources used were divided into 4 categories. Influencing factors were categorized into 7 categories, including characteristics of scientific research, technological system, institutional context, actor network, knowledge carrier & media, transformation mechanism, and measurement biases. This review establishes the first integrated framework for analyzing technological impact, proposing to unify terminology, combine quantitative and contextual approaches, and consider sector-specific dynamics to optimize innovation policy and evaluation practice.
Li et al. (2026) studied this question.