Presenting a Conceptual Model for Implementing Knowledge Management in Iranian Governmental Research Centers

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 Department of Knowledge and Information Science, NT.C., Islamic Azad University ,Tehran, Iran. 0074009621@iau.ir

2 Department of Knowledge and Information Science, NT.C., Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran .z_abazari@iau-tnb.ac.ir

3 Department of Knowledge and Information Science, NT.C., Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran. z_mirhoseini@iau-tnb.ac.irb.ac.ir

10.22091/stim.2025.13515.2273

Abstract

This research aims to present a comprehensive conceptual model for the effective implementation of knowledge management in Iranian governmental research centers, by examining the challenges, requirements, and key success factors in this field. The proposed model has been developed considering the local, cultural, and structural conditions of these centers to help improve knowledge processes and enhance their performance at the national and international levels.

The main objective of this research is to develop a practical conceptual model for implementing knowledge management that is compatible with the specific needs of Iranian governmental research centers. This goal is pursued by identifying existing challenges, analyzing key success factors, and offering recommendations for policymaking and future research. The study seeks to answer the question of how the knowledge cycle (from creation to application) can be optimized and a culture of continuous learning can be institutionalized in these organizations by integrating human, cultural, structural, and technological dimensions.

Methodology: This study utilized an exploratory mixed-methods research approach. In the qualitative phase, through a systematic review of 53 scientific articles (published between 2000 and 2022) and their content analysis using MAXQDA software, 106 initial indicators were extracted. These indicators were then refined in a three-round Fuzzy Delphi process with the participation of 30 knowledge management experts. Ultimately, 27 key indicators with high consensus were selected for the quantitative phase.

In the quantitative phase, a questionnaire was designed based on the final 27 indicators and distributed among 100 knowledge management experts from 18 governmental research centers. The collected data were analyzed using the Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) method and SmartPLS 4 software. The validity and reliability of the model were confirmed through indicators such as Cronbach's alpha, Composite Reliability (CR), and Average Variance Extracted (AVE), and the causal relationships between variables were tested.

Findings: The analysis revealed that the most significant challenges in implementing knowledge management in Iranian governmental research centers are traditional organizational culture, resistance to change, weak IT infrastructure, and the lack of a coherent national policy. In the Delphi process, the indicator "creating motivation for knowledge application" was identified as the most important factor, with the highest average score (4.18), emphasizing the importance of human and cultural dimensions.

Structural Equation Modeling indicated that the three components of "knowledge collection and acquisition" (factor loading 0.339), "knowledge creation and generation" (factor loading 0.326), and "knowledge application" (factor loading 0.193) have the greatest impact on the knowledge management development strategy. In contrast, the variable "knowledge organization and codification" did not show a significant impact in the model, suggesting the complexity or inefficiency of current documentation processes. Finally, a four-layered conceptual model was presented, consisting of strategic (leadership and policy), cultural-human (motivation and trust), structural-process (knowledge cycle), and technological (infrastructure) layers, which allows for continuous improvement through a feedback and evaluation loop.

Conclusion: This research concludes that the success of knowledge management in Iranian governmental research centers depends more on committed leadership, creating a learning culture, and designing effective motivational systems than on technology. The proposed conceptual model, by prioritizing the creation, acquisition, and application of knowledge and integrating it into a four-layered architecture, provides a realistic framework for these centers. The findings suggest that cumbersome "knowledge organization" processes should be simplified with smart tools to avoid becoming an obstacle to knowledge flow.

From a policymaking perspective, developing a "National Knowledge Management Document" that clearly defines roles, sustainable resources, and Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) is an urgent necessity. Government investment in integrated and secure technological infrastructure and encouraging centers to share knowledge through financial and non-financial incentives are the next essential steps. Implementing this model can significantly contribute to establishing a learning culture, increasing innovation, and ultimately enhancing Iran's scientific standing.

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