Providing a Model for Identifying Digital Entrepreneurship Opportunities in Iran's ICT Industry

Abstract

The aim of this research is to provide a model for identifying digital entrepreneurship opportunities in Iran’s ICT industry. This study is qualitative and exploratory in nature, utilizing a combination of research methods focused on in-depth and semi-structured interviews as well as questionnaires to design a model for identifying digital entrepreneurship opportunities in Iran’s ICT industry. Several stages were undertaken to achieve this goal. In the first stage, concepts were extracted using theoretical foundations, literature review, thematic analysis, in-depth and semi-structured interviews, and expert consultations. In the qualitative phase, 20 experts in the field of digital entrepreneurship, including individuals with relevant experience or active involvement in this domain, participated. The decision-making team comprised university professors, industry experts, key informants, digital entrepreneurs, and professionals from organizations such as the Ministry of Information and Communications Technology and other relevant institutions. The selection of participants was conducted using a purposive sampling method. As a result of this stage, the main and sub-components of digital entrepreneurship opportunities in Iran’s ICT industry were identified, leading to the extraction of 139 codes. Subsequently, a fuzzy Delphi method was applied to filter the identified codes, and ultimately, 45 indicators were recognized as the key factors for the proposed model. The Delphi analysis was based on the opinions of 20 experts and was conducted in three rounds of expert surveys. At the end of this stage, 45 indicators were finalized as the critical elements of the model for identifying digital entrepreneurship opportunities in Iran’s ICT industry. In the next stage, the Interpretive Structural Modeling (ISM) method was employed to design the final model. The constructs examined for developing this model included twelve key elements: innovative value creation, generation and processing of digital entrepreneurial ideas, personal characteristics of digital entrepreneurs, monitoring technological, political, legal, and demographic changes, digital infrastructure and internet-based platforms, digital business environment monitoring, entrepreneurial alertness, foresight, entrepreneurial networking, market and commercialization of digital technology, intellectual capital and digital knowledge, and entrepreneurial leadership in the digital industry. Ultimately, the model for identifying digital entrepreneurship opportunities in Iran’s ICT industry was successfully developed.