Presentation of a Conceptual Model of a Comprehensive Knowledge-Based Organization Pattern Using Grounded Theory
Abstract
In the era of the knowledge-based economy, the aviation industry is confronted with complex challenges that have intensified the necessity for transformation toward knowledge-based organizations. Iran Air, as the flag carrier of this industry, requires a comprehensive and practical model for knowledge-based transformation in order to survive and grow within today’s highly competitive environment. This study is designed based on the pragmatism paradigm and adopts a qualitative approach. The primary objective is to develop a comprehensive model of a knowledge-based organization for Iran Air by identifying key factors and the complex relationships among its constituent components. The statistical population consisted of managers, experts, and specialists from Iran Air, as well as aviation industry professionals in Iran with a minimum of 10 years of work experience. The sample was selected using purposive and snowball sampling methods and included 15 key experts, determined based on the principle of theoretical saturation. In the qualitative phase, data were collected through in-depth semi-structured interviews, participant observation, and analysis of organizational documents. Data analysis was conducted using the grounded theory approach across three stages—open coding, axial coding, and selective coding—using MAXQDA software. The findings led to the identification of 20 main categories and 105 concepts within a paradigmatic model. The “integrated knowledge-orientation system,” comprising 15 concepts, was identified as the core phenomenon. Additionally, causal conditions (16 concepts), contextual conditions (29 concepts), intervening conditions (16 concepts), strategies (18 concepts), and consequences (11 concepts) were identified. The designed model provides a comprehensive framework for transforming Iran Air into a knowledge-based organization, encompassing an internal dimension focused on the development of human, cultural, managerial, and technological capabilities, and an external dimension focused on alignment with economic conditions and integrated knowledge systems.
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Copyright (c) 2026 Maliheh Raoof Esmaeili, Alireza Anvari, Ali Pirzad, Jahanbakhsh Rahimi Baghmalek (Author)
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