Innovation Management in Defensive Organizations

Innovation Management in Defensive Organizations

Agile Governance Model Based on Digital Transformation in Iranian Public Organizations

Document Type : Original Article

Authors
1 PhD. Student of public administration, Faculty of Management and Economics. Islamic Azad University Research and Science Branch,
2 Associate Professor, Department of Public Administration, Faculty of Management and Economics, Islamic Azad University, Science and Research Branch, Tehran, Iran.
3 Assistant Professor of Department of Technology Management, Islamic Azad University Qom Branch, Qom, Iran
10.22034/qjimdo.2025.538093.1759
Abstract
Background & Purpose: In the era of digital transformation, responding to challenges arising from environmental changes requires agile governance to meet the ever-changing needs and demands of society. This research aims to develop an agile governance model based on digital transformation for Iranian public organizations (case study: Information Technology Organization of Iran).
Methodology: This applied and developmental research employs an exploratory mixed-method sequential design. In the qualitative phase, using thematic analysis, dimensions, components, and indicators of the model were extracted through semi-structured interviews with 15 academic and executive experts from the Information Technology Organization of Iran. Three dimensions, nineteen components, and fifty-seven indicators were identified in this phase. In the quantitative phase, structural equation modeling (SEM) was used to validate the model. A questionnaire based on the factors extracted in the qualitative phase was designed and distributed among 120 experts from the Information Technology Organization of Iran to assess the relationships between indicators and constructs. Data were analyzed using SmartPLS version 3.
Findings: The results from both qualitative and quantitative phases indicate that agile governance based on digital transformation in Iranian public organizations encompasses content dimensions (such as agile decision-making, transparency, culture of change acceptance, citizen participation), structural dimensions (including agile technological infrastructure, innovative human resources, data-driven leadership, and digital transformation institutions), and process dimensions (such as agile methods, continuous learning, and participatory policymaking). Quantitative analysis also confirmed the significance of the relationships between the indicators and the relevant components.
Conclusion: The findings of this study can enrich the theoretical literature in the field of agile governance and digital transformation and pave the way for developing optimized policies and strategies in public organizations.
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