Presenting an Interpretive Structural Model of Commercialization of Startup Products in the Field of Technology in the Sustainable Technology and Innovation Ecosystem of Lorestan Province

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

Department of Business Administration, Kermanshah Branch, Islamic Azad University, Kermanshah, Iran.

Abstract

The present study was conducted with the aim of providing an interpretive structural model for the commercialization of products in technology-based startups within the sustainable innovation ecosystem of Lorestan Province. In terms of purpose, the research is applied–developmental, and in terms of approach, it follows an exploratory mixed-method design, combining qualitative and quantitative techniques. The statistical population consisted of all experts, managers, and owners of technology startups in Lorestan's sustainable innovation ecosystem. Sampling was carried out using a non-probability purposive method of the snowball type until theoretical saturation was reached, resulting in a sample size of 15 participants. Data collection in the qualitative phase was conducted through semi-structured interviews, while in the quantitative phase a matrix questionnaire was employed. Qualitative data were analyzed using content analysis, and quantitative data were examined through Interpretive Structural Modeling (ISM). The qualitative findings led to the identification of 17 components categorized into structural, contextual, and content dimensions. The ISM results revealed that variables such as defining commercialization goals and criteria, proper planning from ideation to sales, strong startup teams, robust financial supply chains, reciprocal collaboration among technology startups, supportive networks, and governmental policies in support of startups were recognized as independent and influential variables. Improving these factors can contribute to controlling product development costs and enhancing customer trust, which were identified as dependent variables. The findings of this study can assist policymakers, managers, and practitioners in the technology sector in designing effective strategies for the successful commercialization of startup products within Lorestan's sustainable innovation ecosystem.

Keywords


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