Mapping Crafting Through Tree Analogy: An Integrated Literature Review

The concept of crafting has evolved through diverse streams of research, leading to a segmented conceptualization. The purpose of this study is to summarize and integrate this diversity. Using an integrative literature review methodology, 461 articles published between 2001 and 2024 were systematically summarized and synthesized. These articles were investigated based on their year of publication, keywords, research design and methodology, utilized theories, and types of crafting. 8 main types and 21 subtypes of crafting were identified, with resource theories being the most frequently used theoretical frameworks. Keyword co-occurrence analysis revealed four dominant research perspectives: individual orientation, organizational orientation, wellbeing focus, and performance focus. To illustrate the evolution and integrate different perspectives, a tree analogy is proposed.Current review aids researchers in navigating the field and encourages further exploration of lesser-known forms of crafting. For researchers, the thematic analysis aiming to present the development of the crafting literature offers a clear view of the consolidated research areas in crafting, making it easier to identify emerging trends within the field. For practitioners, our research encourages them to rethink how proactive efforts are utilized within their organizations.