Abstract:Taking 874 innovation performance related literatures as samples, the paper uses visualization techniques and bibliometric method to map out a front knowledge mapping on contemporary innovation performance research. Apparently it spans three stages, containing four knowledge groups. That is, “the knowledge group on evaluation of innovation performance according to regional innovation system” in the concept-introduction stage; “the knowledge group on innovation performance evaluation index and internal external influencing factors” and “the knowledge group on open innovation and absorptive capacity” in the developing stage; " the knowledge group on enterprise innovation in the background of social network " in the mature stage. Based on the analysis of the cited literature, searched through key nodes, and Keywordsfrequency and content in citing literature, the paper infers the research topics and their evolution paths on innovation performance.