Research Paper
Evaluation of Information and Knowledge Retrieval Systems
Seyedeh Najmeh Halakoyan; Hassan Behzadi; Sholeh Arastoopoor
Abstract
IntroductionThe user, or the human agent, plays a primary and fundamental role in designing information retrieval systems (Hudlicka, 2003). This is because the information-seeking process is an interactive one, and humans possess their own specific complexities. Characteristics such as intelligence, ...
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IntroductionThe user, or the human agent, plays a primary and fundamental role in designing information retrieval systems (Hudlicka, 2003). This is because the information-seeking process is an interactive one, and humans possess their own specific complexities. Characteristics such as intelligence, experience, motivation, etc., can influence individuals' information searching (Marchionini, 1989). Therefore, understanding users is important. In this context, in recent years, within the field of Information Science and Knowledge Studies, and particularly in information retrieval, researchers have endeavored to study the impact of concepts related to cognitive distortions, such as cognitive biases (Lau & Coiera, 2007; Rashidi, 2017; Bahimehr, 2018; and Gomroki et al., 2021) on user behavior. Considering the importance of studying cognitive distortions, as well as the significance of cognitive variables and cultural differences in the field of information retrieval, and given that graduate students are one of the primary user groups who engage more extensively in scientific information retrieval compared to other user groups due to their demographic characteristics and numerous academic needs, this research intends to investigate the issue of cognitive distortions.Research Question(s)The main question of the present research is: According to Ellis's ten-fold classification of cognitive distortions, which cognitive distortions do graduate students at Ferdowsi University of Mashhad experience during the different stages of information retrieval (pre-search, during search, and post-search)?Literature ReviewThe topic of cognitive distortions has not yet been addressed in information retrieval research. In related and similar topics, namely cognitive biases, some researchers (Lau & Coiera, 2007; White, 2013; Gomroki et al., 2021) have conducted studies, and in all these studies, the need for further research has been mentioned. The research by Lau and Coiera (2007) examined the cognitive biases of confirmation bias, order effect, and mere exposure effect on decision-making during information search through retrospective and prospective analysis, and found that individuals may experience these biases during information search, affecting their correct or incorrect decision-making. White's (2013) study focused on the relationship between beliefs and cognitive biases in web information seeking. The main finding of this research indicated that biases can have a detrimental effect on information retrieval in search engines.MethodologyIn terms of method, the present research is a survey study that adopted a quantitative approach to data collection. The statistical population of this research consisted of graduate students (Master's and PhD) at Ferdowsi University of Mashhad. For data collection, three researcher-made questionnaires based on the ten introduced cognitive distortions were used. In this regard, after reviewing the literature and interviewing information retrieval experts, these three questionnaires were designed. To confirm the content validity of each questionnaire, the opinions of experts in information retrieval and psychology were used, and confirmatory factor analysis was employed to confirm construct validity. Cronbach's alpha coefficient was used to assess the reliability of the research instruments.FindingsThe research findings indicated that users did not experience specific cognitive distortions in information retrieval. The extent of employing cognitive distortions differed among users before starting the search and information retrieval, with the use of the "magnification" distortion being higher compared to other distortions. Also, during the search, the extent of employing cognitive distortions differed among users, with the use of the "magnification" distortion being higher compared to other distortions. After the search and information retrieval, the extent of employing cognitive distortions also differed among users, and the use of the "overgeneralization" distortion was observed to be higher compared to other distortions.ConclusionThe occurrence of cognitive distortions in information retrieval, although present to some extent in some distortions, was not complete. What is considered the main factor in this regard is the research population and the relative stability of cognitive distortions, which has led to this finding. However, it should be noted that even this limited presence of some cognitive distortions could lead to deficiencies in information retrieval and, consequently, their dissatisfaction. Librarians' attention to information literacy training can pave the way for users to master information retrieval skills and ultimately protect the user from some cognitive distortions, such as "should" statements or overgeneralization. The existence of a relationship between users' cognitive distortions in different stages of information retrieval also indicates that although some distortions have varying intensity in different stages, their presence in individual’s leads to their manifestation in all stages. Therefore, efforts to eliminate these distortions will result in the individual not manifesting that distortion in the stages, and its positive impact on their information behavior will become evident. However, it should be noted that if an individual suffers from cognitive distortions, the groundwork for addressing them should be prepared with the help of psychology specialists. Librarians' engagement with the cognitive aspects of information retrieval can manifest not only in research domains (a clear example is the many collaborative works librarians have done with psychologists) but also in practical domains. Paying attention to demographic variables in the manifestation of cognitive distortions in information retrieval is another important factor that should be considered. These variables manifest more prominently in societies with (social, cultural, etc.) diversity and require more study and attention. Cognitive distortions, due to having more tangible manifestations in individuals' daily behaviors, can be influenced by these factors, and this influence is more pronounced among individuals with specific cultural, social, financial, and psychological backgrounds; although it is also noteworthy that cognitive distortions exist among all members of society, but this varies in intensity.AcknowledgmentsThe researchers deem it necessary to thank the Vice Presidency for Research and Technology of Ferdowsi University of Mashhad for their financial support of the research project with code 58108/3.
Research Paper
Knowledge Management Systems and Technologies
Javad Moghtader Kargaran
Abstract
IntroductionIn recent decades, knowledge management has played a key role as one of the strategic pillars of organizations, particularly in the public sector, contributing to performance improvement, effective decision-making, social accountability, and organizational learning )Dalkir, 2017; Alavi & ...
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IntroductionIn recent decades, knowledge management has played a key role as one of the strategic pillars of organizations, particularly in the public sector, contributing to performance improvement, effective decision-making, social accountability, and organizational learning )Dalkir, 2017; Alavi & Leidner, 2001(. As organizational environments become increasingly complex and innovation in public service delivery becomes imperative, public organizations must distance themselves from traditional models and move toward intelligent knowledge management systems (Choi et al., 2020).Amid these developments, one of the most significant recent technological advancements has been the emergence of Generative Artificial Intelligence and Large Language Models such as ChatGPT, Claude, and Gemini, which are capable of generating textual content, performing conceptual inference, and analyzing natural language )Bommasani et al., 2022). These technologies, with capabilities such as information summarization, tacit knowledge extraction, and intelligent responsiveness, hold significant potential for transforming the knowledge management cycle )Koskella et al., 2023).Therefore, the present research has been conducted with the aim of designing an indigenous and practical conceptual framework for implementing generative AI-based knowledge management in Iranian public sector organizations. Utilizing field data and a grounded theory approach, this study seeks to provide an executable solution for addressing technological, human, and governance challenges in the digital transformation of knowledge management.Literature ReviewNumerous studies have demonstrated that artificial intelligence, particularly generative AI, can enhance knowledge management processes. Chen et al. )2016) established a positive relationship between AI application and knowledge management effectiveness as well as organizational performance. Sivaraja et al. )2017) recognized intelligent technologies as effective in facilitating knowledge management transformation within e-government. Jarrahi et al. )2018) introduced AI as a complement to human decision-making and influential in organizational knowledge creation.Abubakar et al. (2020) highlighted the combined capabilities of AI and big data in improving organizational knowledge creation, while Chatterjee et al. (2021) emphasized the importance of coordination among technology, policymakers, and users in AI implementation. Rahman et al. )2022( pointed to infrastructural and policy challenges in leveraging AI within the public sector. Additionally, Dwivedi & Koskela )2023( confirmed the capability of large language models such as ChatGPT in accelerating and facilitating knowledge management.In Iran, studies such as Rahim & Asgari )2020( and Akbari et al. )2022( have addressed cultural, structural, and technological challenges in implementing knowledge management within governmental bodies; however, less attention has been given to the role of generative AI.MethodologyThis study employs a qualitative research approach using grounded theory methodology to extract and develop a conceptual framework for generative AI-based knowledge management in Iranian public-sector organizations. Grounded theory is a systematic and theory-oriented method that generates theory directly from field data, proving particularly effective when theoretical knowledge is limited or ambiguous )Strauss & Corbin, 1998(.The study population consists of experts, senior managers, and specialists in knowledge management, information technology, and digital transformation within Iranian public sector organizations, all possessing relevant experience and expertise related to the research topic. Theoretical purposive sampling was employed, meaning participants were selectively chosen based on criteria such as specialized knowledge, relevant work experience, and ability to provide rich data pertinent to the research subject. The sampling process continued until theoretical saturation was achieved, with data collection ceasing when no new information or emerging concepts could be extracted. The final sample comprised 15 experts with relevant academic and professional backgrounds, who participated in semi-structured interviews.Data were collected through semi-structured in-depth interviews. The interview questions were designed to extract detailed perspectives regarding experiences, challenges, opportunities, and expectations related to the application of generative AI in knowledge management. Following informed consent, all interviews were audio-recorded and subsequently transcribed verbatim. Each interview lasted between 45 to 60 minutes.Data analysis followed the classical grounded theory procedures:Open Coding: Raw data were examined line-by-line to extract initial concepts. This phase involved breaking down data into constituent elements and identifying fundamental concepts.Axial Coding: Extracted concepts were categorized and interconnected to form conceptual structures and identify main categories.Selective Coding: Main categories were integrated to develop the final theoretical framework based on causal and structural relationships between concepts.The specialized software MAXQDA was utilized for data organization, coding, and analysis, enabling comprehensive management of qualitative data and systematic code classification.ResultsData analysis revealed that implementing generative AI-based knowledge management in public sector organizations necessitates the presence of advanced technological infrastructure, a learning-oriented culture, ethical and data governance systems, as well as continuous evaluation and feedback mechanisms. The integration of these elements can enhance the effectiveness of knowledge management, improve organizational decision-making, and promote functional transparency within public organizations.DiscussionInformation technology infrastructure serves as the foundational platform for implementing generative AI, playing a vital role in organizational empowerment. Knowledge quality management, with its focus on continuous validation and refinement, ensures the accuracy and applicability of generated content. A learning organizational culture and technological acceptance, coupled with leadership support and ongoing employee training, constitute essential prerequisites for the success of this process. Data governance principles, transparency, and professional ethics enhance public trust and elevate information security. Finally, the establishment of feedback mechanisms and continuous learning enables the framework to dynamically adapt to environmental changes.These findings align with previous studies in the domains of knowledge management and AI applications, demonstrating the importance of comprehensive and localized approaches in leveraging emerging technologies within the public sector.ConclusionThe proposed framework from this research can guide governmental organizations in strategically leveraging generative AI capabilities for knowledge management, ultimately enhancing decision-making, organizational agility, and productivity. With its high localizability, this framework enables the development of strategic plans and executive policies for knowledge-driven digital transformation in Iran's public sector. Furthermore, the embedded continuous feedback mechanism facilitates ongoing evaluation and gradual improvement of knowledge management systems.The findings of this research yield two key categories of implications:Theoretical Implications:This study expands the knowledge management literature by incorporating the "generative AI" dimension, demonstrating how large language models can serve as a resource for creating, refining, and organizing organizational knowledge. The proposed framework bridges abstract knowledge management concepts with operational capabilities of generative technologies, paving the way for developing new conceptual models in the future.Practical Implications:The presented framework can serve as an implementation guide for managers and policymakers in public sector organizations. It not only facilitates the redesign of governmental knowledge management systems with an emphasis on transparency, agility, and data-driven decision-making but also provides tools for data quality management, enhancing learning organizational cultures, and ensuring ethical considerations in AI deployment. Moreover, the framework's integrated feedback and continuous improvement mechanisms create conditions for organizations to remain flexible and sustainable alongside future technological advancements. Thus, this research offers concrete solutions for policy-making and management in Iran's public sector, in addition to its scientific and theoretical value.
Research Paper
Information and Knowledge Management
mahboubeh ghorbani
Abstract
IntroductionIn the age of digital transformation, libraries around the world are facing unprecedented challenges in the field of information organization. The rapid expansion of digital content, the emergence of intelligent technologies, and the increasing expectations of users for seamless access to ...
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IntroductionIn the age of digital transformation, libraries around the world are facing unprecedented challenges in the field of information organization. The rapid expansion of digital content, the emergence of intelligent technologies, and the increasing expectations of users for seamless access to information have made traditional cataloging methods inadequate. Conventional MARC-based cataloging systems—once the cornerstone of bibliographic control—are now struggling to meet the demands of interoperability, machine readability, and semantic connectivity in a networked environment. As the global information ecosystem moves toward the Semantic Web and Linked Data paradigms, libraries must redefine their role from being custodians of isolated bibliographic records to active participants in interconnected data infrastructures. This paradigm shift demands new strategies, standards, and technologies that can transform cataloging into an intelligent, user-centered, and collaborative process. The present study, titled “Experiences of Libraries and International Institutions in Information Organization: Lessons for Iranian Libraries, ” aims to analyze global best practices in information organization and to propose context-appropriate strategies for improving cataloging performance in Iranian libraries. Considering the stagnation of traditional cataloging systems in Iran—due to limited infrastructure, outdated software, and insufficient alignment with international standards—this research explores how successful international experiences can be localized to enhance efficiency, innovation, and user satisfaction.Research Question(s)The central research question guiding this study is: How can successful international experiences in information organization be used to develop effective strategies for updating cataloging processes, improving performance, and responding more efficiently to user needs in Iranian libraries? This question reflects the dual focus of the study: (1) identifying global best practices, and (2) transforming them into actionable, context-sensitive models suitable for Iran’s library environment. Literature ReviewCataloging theory and practice—from rule-based descriptive systems to intelligent, semantically enriched frameworks. Early studies such as Esse (2013) and Pazouki (2014) emphasized the transition from AACR2 to RDA, highlighting the conceptual transformation toward the Functional Requirements for Bibliographic Records (FRBR) and the Library Reference Model (LRM). These frameworks redefined cataloging as a user-centered and relationship-oriented activity rather than a purely descriptive one. Meanwhile, Feldman and Spiteri (2014) envisioned the library catalog of the future as a social and collaborative space, where users actively participate through tagging, annotation, and content contribution. The human dimension of metadata creation—through participatory cataloging—has increasingly complemented automation and machine-driven processes. Recent research, including Roy et al. (2024) and Midde (2024), demonstrated the growing impact of artificial intelligence and machine learning on cataloging and classification. These technologies enhance metadata accuracy, automate subject analysis, and personalize user experiences through recommender systems. Similarly, Ullah et al. (2018) and OCLC (2024) outlined the integration of Linked Data and Open Data frameworks, which improve interoperability and reuse of bibliographic metadata across institutional and disciplinary boundaries. In the Iranian context, scholars such as Hejazi, Heydari, and Geraii (2019), Zarresaz (2021), and Taheri (2012) have identified major challenges facing cataloging modernization, including outdated infrastructure, lack of national coordination, limited adoption of global metadata standards, and insufficient professional training. Although these studies emphasized the need for reform, none have systematically examined how international experiences could be adapted to Iran’s context—a gap this research aims to fill.MethodologyThis research is applied in purpose and qualitative in approach, employing documentary analysis and thematic analysis methods. Data Collection: The corpus consisted of official documents, reports, technical manuals, and strategic plans published between 2019 and 2024 by eight leading international institutions in information organization:Library of Congress (USA)British LibraryNational Library of France (BnF)German National Library (DNB)National Library and Archives of Canada (LAC)National Library of Australia (NLA)OCLC (Online Computer Library Center)International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions (IFLA)A total of 286 documents were retrieved from institutional websites and digital repositories. Each document was systematically coded using alphanumeric identifiers representing the institution and document type (e.g., R = Report, S = Strategy, G = Guideline, etc.).Data AnalysisThe data were analyzed through thematic analysis following the framework proposed by Attride-Stirling (2001) and Braun & Clarke (2006). The analysis proceeded in three iterative stages:Basic Themes – extraction of meaningful textual units (codes) directly from documents.Organizing Themes – clustering of related basic themes into broader conceptual groups.Global Theme – synthesis of organizing themes into an overarching conceptual framework representing the essence of transformation in information organization. Triangulation across data sources and iterative verification by a secondary researcher ensured reliability and validity.ResultsThe analysis revealed six major organizing themes that characterize global innovations in information organization and cataloging. Open Bibliographic and Metadata Services LibrariesIncreasingly provide open and reusable metadata through APIs, FTP protocols, and SPARQL endpoints, under Creative Commons or national open data licenses. Initiatives such as data.bnf.fr, British National Bibliography RDF Service, and OCLC WorldCat API exemplify how open access to metadata supports innovation, interoperability, and transparency. Collaborative projects like VIAF (Virtual International Authority File) and WikiLibrary further demonstrate global efforts toward shared metadata ecosystems. Development of Controlled Vocabularies and OntologiesLibraries have expanded and digitized subject vocabularies, classification schemes, and ontologies—such as LCSH, RAMEAU, GND, and FAST—transforming them into RDF- or SKOS-based web resources. These tools facilitate multilingual retrieval, semantic linking, and cross-domain search functionalities. Standardization of Metadata FrameworksThe harmonization of bibliographic standards (RDA, ISBD, MARCXML, ONIX) and alignment with conceptual models like IFLA LRM are central to modern metadata architecture. The RDA 3R Project, ISBD-RDF/XML implementation, and UNIMARC-RDF exemplify initiatives aimed at ensuring cross-standard interoperability. Implementation of Linked Data and Semantic Web TechnologiesMany libraries now employ RDF, OWL, SKOS, and schema.org vocabularies to represent bibliographic entities as interconnected data nodes. The Library of Congress BIBFRAME project and the BnF Knowledge Graph (with over 600 million semantic relationships) showcase the transformation from isolated catalogs to global semantic networks. Intelligent and Automated ProcessingArtificial intelligence is being used to automate cataloging workflows, enhance metadata quality, and accelerate classification. Tools such as AutoDewey, RobotData (BnF), and OCLC AI-based metadata assistants use natural language processing and machine learning to assign subjects, extract entities, and detect inconsistencies. These innovations not only increase productivity but also redefine catalogers’ roles from data entry operators to metadata analysts. Transformation of Metadata Production ModelsMetadata creation is shifting from centralized manual input to distributed, participatory, and automated models. Libraries integrate metadata supplied by publishers (ONIX, CrossRef) and enable user contributions through crowdsourcing platforms. This hybrid approach balances machine efficiency with human contextual insight.The global theme emerging from these categories is: “Transformation of Information Organization and Accessibility in the Digital Environment”. This theme encapsulates the move from static, isolated cataloging systems toward intelligent, networked, and user-driven infrastructures.DiscussionThe findings reveal that cataloging has evolved into a multidimensional process that integrates technology, collaboration, and intelligence. By adopting open standards and semantic web technologies, libraries enhance the discoverability, interoperability, and reusability of bibliographic data across digital ecosystems. Artificial intelligence introduces significant opportunities for automation, quality control, and personalized discovery. However, ethical considerations—such as data transparency, bias mitigation, and user privacy—must be addressed to ensure responsible adoption. Moreover, user participation in metadata creation enriches cultural and contextual diversity but necessitates robust quality assurance mechanisms. For Iranian libraries, these global experiences offer valuable insights. Despite having professional expertise and strong institutional traditions, Iranian cataloging systems remain largely confined to MARC-based infrastructures with limited semantic capabilities. To bridge this gap, a strategic re-engineering is essential—one that combines technological innovation with capacity building and policy reform. Key adaptation pathways include:Migration to RDF-based and BIBFRAME-compliantCataloging platforms;Development of a National Open Metadata Repository Providing APIs for reuse;Integration of AI-assisted cataloging tools for subject analysis and metadata validation;Implementation of publisher deposit and crowdsourcing systems to expand metadata coverage;Launch of a National “WikiLibrary” project to connect Iranian metadata with global Linked Data initiatives;Localization of ISBD and RDA standards to align international models with Persian language and script requirements.Such initiatives would enable Iranian libraries to transition from isolated bibliographic systems to active contributors in the global knowledge network.ConclusionThis study synthesizes the best international practices in information organization and demonstrates their applicability to Iran’s library ecosystem. The global trend reveals a decisive shift from descriptive, static cataloging toward intelligent, semantic, and collaborative infrastructures. By embracing open standards, artificial intelligence, and user participation, libraries can enhance both operational efficiency and user experience. For Iran, the path forward involves not merely technological adoption but a conceptual transformation—from maintaining catalogs as passive databases to constructing interconnected knowledge frameworks that align with the global Semantic Web. Implementing RDF-based systems, fostering interoperability, and developing human expertise will empower Iranian libraries to reclaim their central role in the digital knowledge landscape. Ultimately, the transformation envisioned by this study transcends technology; it represents a redefinition of librarianship itself—anchored in openness, intelligence, and collaboration.
Research Paper
Semantic Web and Ontology
Razieh Farshid; Saeid Asadi; Davood Haseli; Azadeh Fakhrzadeh
Abstract
Introduction
Regarding the increase in digital images and easy access to digital cameras, image processing and retrieval have become an important research field. Image retrieval is one of the important subfields of information retrieval that usually uses different techniques and models than text retrieval. ...
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Introduction
Regarding the increase in digital images and easy access to digital cameras, image processing and retrieval have become an important research field. Image retrieval is one of the important subfields of information retrieval that usually uses different techniques and models than text retrieval. The main expectation of users of information retrieval systems is to find relevant resources among thousands of resources available in these systems. Creating a scientific map of articles in the field of image retrieval using ontology can provide awareness of the status of published research; it can also help to show thematic relationships, identify influential topics, mature, emerging, and undeveloped topics, thematic gaps, and create appropriate scientific policies in this field.
Literature Review
A small number of studies have been conducted in the field of image retrieval using ontology, none of which have examined the hierarchical diagram. In the field of scientometric research, such as Daniali, Naghshineh, and Fadaei (2017); Daniali and Naghshineh (2018); Azimi and Jozi (2014); Ghanbari et al. (2014); Liu et al. (2021); Jo (2024); Khan et al. (2024). Scientometric studies often focus on assessing publication patterns, citation networks, co-authorship, and research productivity. These studies help researchers understand the structure and evolution of the scientific literature in a given field.
Methodology
In terms of type, the present study is in the category of applied research in which scientometric techniques and social network analysis have been used. The research community consists of those studies in the field of information retrieval with ontology that have been indexed in the Scopus database from the beginning to the end of 2024.
Based on the formula in the search, 716 indexed articles were found in Scopus in the desired field. To be more precise, the statistical population of this study consists of all 716 published articles in the field of image retrieval using ontology.
After retrieving relevant records and integrating data, based on the research objectives and questions, data analysis was carried out using BibExcel, Gephi, Excel, and SPSS, and the maps were created by VOSviewer software. In order to draw thematic maps and analyze them correctly, keywords were controlled and standardized by creating a Thesaurus in the software. In such a way that identical and similar keywords and plural and singular forms were merged and non-specialized and searched keywords were removed. In order to classify words in published documents based on semantic similarity using algorithms such as Euclidean distance and..., hierarchical clustering is usually used. Hierarchical clustering was performed using SPSS software. In order to implement and achieve the analysis, requirements such as a co-occurrence matrix must first be prepared, and then the co-occurrence matrix must be converted into a correlation matrix. The statistical population of the present study was the entire population. In order to perform a more accurate synonym analysis and final synonym analysis, the matrix was called through SPSS software, and the regular matrix was converted into a correlation matrix by SPSS software. The correlation matrix that was based on the obtained cognates frequency matrix, clusters and hierarchical were drawn using hierarchical clustering using the Ward method and squared Euclidean distance. Among the 716 retrieved articles, keywords with a frequency of 11 and more were selected for the research to prepare the matrix, and finally a square matrix of 142 by 142 was formed for the research.
The diagonal cells of the matrices were considered zero and then these ordinary matrices were converted into a correlation matrix. Finally, the clustering of concepts was drawn based on statistical software (SPSS version 26). Finally, to draw a scatter diagram and identify the development and maturity status of the topics, the frequency matrix of each cluster was drawn separately, then their correlation matrix was drawn, and with the help of the strategic diagram, using the density and centrality of each cluster, their coherence and maturity were calculated. In the next step, a strategic diagram of thematic clusters was drawn; the strategic diagram describes the internal relationship and correlation between the different thematic clusters. Excel, Gephi, Babel Excel, and SPSS software were used to analyze the data, and Word Viewer, Excel, and SPSS software were used to draw the diagram.
Results
The results showed that among the keywords, the keyword image retrieval is in the first place with a frequency of 572. Among them, the keywords ontology and semantics are in the second and third places, respectively. Also, the analysis of the findings related to the synonym of image retrieval using ontology took the form of six thematic areas. Infrastructures and fundamental technologies of image retrieval, techniques of concepts and image analysis, intelligent machines and applications in image retrieval, web concepts and search based on ontology, managerial and human aspects in information retrieval, quality improvement and query processing in image retrieval.
The results obtained from the hierarchical diagram formed four topic clusters. Also, the findings from the strategic map of image retrieval topics using ontology indicate that cluster 1 was placed in the first part due to its high centrality and density. These clusters are higher in centrality and density. Clusters 2 and 4 are placed in the second part. The clusters that are located in the second part of the strategic picture are regional clusters. But they are developed. Cluster 3 is located in the fourth part. The clusters in the fourth part are the main ones, but are undeveloped and immature.
Discussion
With the help of scientometrics, a macro picture of the state of research and how different domains are related, can be presented. Co-occurrence analysis led to the formation of six clusters. Fundamental infrastructures and technologies of image retrieval, semantic techniques and image content analysis, machine learning and intelligent applications in image retrieval, semantic web and ontology-based search, managerial and human aspects of information retrieval, quality improvement and query processing in image retrieval. Among the existing concepts, some of them have received the highest number of citations: such as image retrieval, machine learning, computer vision, deep learning, database systems, digital libraries, Internet, WordNet, artificial intelligence, and information retrieval. A hierarchical diagram of four thematic clusters was formed: semantic-based image retrieval, intelligent image retrieval with learning algorithms, semantic image retrieval with annotations, and intelligent image retrieval.
Conclusion
Studies in the field of image retrieval using ontology as a useful tool for effective retrieval can play an effective role. Most studies are in the field of ontology and ontology construction, but no specific research has specifically addressed this area. In this study, the emphasis is on image retrieval, but the high importance of this area, the recognition of the components of this area, and the impact of ontology on semantic retrieval require researchers to focus on these issues, and the results of this study indicate that very little attention has been paid to this area, especially in Iran. Scientific maps are a suitable method for displaying the increasing growth of scientific activities and organizing the intellectual and scientific structure that constitutes a thematic domain. Researchers, science policymakers, and other interested parties can advance their own goals and advance with greater awareness in this field by being aware of this structure.
Research Paper
Information and Knowledge Management
Hosein Tavakoli; ٖGolnessa Galyani-Moghaddam; Reza Maleki
Abstract
Introduction
Knowledge is one of the key factors in the success of organizations. The use of knowledge management in organizations is to quickly adapt to environmental changes. The continuous change in knowledge creates a new state of imbalance for organizations. In this situation, only organizations ...
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Introduction
Knowledge is one of the key factors in the success of organizations. The use of knowledge management in organizations is to quickly adapt to environmental changes. The continuous change in knowledge creates a new state of imbalance for organizations. In this situation, only organizations that can maintain their competitive advantage can survive, and maintaining competitive advantage and the survival of the organization is possible by using knowledge management.
Knowledge management consists of the processes of creating, collecting, organizing, disseminating, constantly refining, and exploiting knowledge.
By using modern technologies and systems, if we are not able to achieve all goals, such as increasing employee efficiency, increasing the level of organizational knowledge, updating knowledge, optimizing production, increasing the ability to solve organizational problems and issues, and other positive goals, we can achieve important parts of these goals. They may be technical or scientific and must be provided.
Implementing knowledge management in any organization requires the existence of foundations that may be technical or scientific and must be provided.
These technical fields can include computers and communication networks, and scientific fields can include the process of collecting and storing the knowledge needed by the organization. However, examining and studying these fields in order to create a knowledge management system and creating knowledge management is one of the initial steps.
This research was conducted to assess the feasibility of implementing knowledge management in the Islamic Publicity Organization, based on the framework of the Asian Productivity Organization.
Research Question(s)
The main question is about the level of readiness of the Islamic Publicity Organization to establish knowledge management.
Other questions are as follows:
1) What is the level of readiness of the Islamic Publicity Organization in terms of leadership?
2) What is the level of readiness of the Islamic Publicity Organization in terms of organizational processes?
3) What is the level of readiness of the Islamic Publicity Organization in terms of individuals?
4) What is the level of readiness of the Islamic Publicity Organization in terms of technology?
5) What is the level of readiness of the Islamic Publicity Organization in the dimension of knowledge processes?
6) What is the level of readiness of the Islamic Publicity Organization in the dimension of learning and innovation?
7) What is the level of readiness of the Islamic Publicity Organization in the dimension of knowledge management results?
Literature Review
Sadeghi et al. (2019) conducted a study in Iranian universities and found that information technology and leadership support are the most important factors in the success of knowledge management.
In another study, Asgari et al. (2021) showed that senior managers and organizational culture play an important role in the success of knowledge management in Iranian technology-based companies. Also, continuous training and creating motivation for knowledge sharing improve organizational performance.
Henz and Oliveira (2024) used the content analysis method for a systematic literature review on knowledge management implementation. Key findings indicate: (a) a need for more research into strategies, practices, and technology for aiding KM implementation and evaluation; and (b) the potential for testing models and frameworks in diverse contexts (country, sector, and size). In response to the analysis, a KM implementation roadmap was formulated, encompassing five stages: diagnosis, design, implementation, implementation improvement, and evaluation.
Methodology
The study was applied in nature and employed a descriptive–survey methodology, where theoretical information was collected through library studies and practical data were obtained using the standardized Knowledge Management Readiness Assessment Questionnaire developed by the Asian Productivity Organization, which holds confirmed validity and reliability.
The Asian Productivity Organization (APO) is an intergovernmental organization committed to improving productivity in the Asia Pacific region. Established in 1961, the APO contributes to the sustainable socioeconomic development of the region through policy advisory services, acting as a think tank, and undertaking smart initiatives in the industry, agriculture, service, and public sectors.
The statistical population consisted of experts and specialists from the Islamic Publicity Organization, and a sample of 131 individuals was selected using Morgan’s table.
Results
Results indicated that the organization’s readiness across all seven indices of the model was at the initial level: leadership (15.51), process (15.51), people (14.54), technology (17.57), knowledge processes (15.27), learning and innovation (14.75), and knowledge management outcomes (14.34). The highest level of readiness was observed in the technology dimension, suggesting easier and faster implementation. The total score of 107.49 confirmed that the organization as a whole is at the beginning stage of knowledge management readiness.
Discussion
Results indicate that all seven criteria, with slight differences from each other, are at the same level of readiness for implementing knowledge management in the Islamic Publicity Organization, and therefore, there is a relative balance between these criteria. Therefore, implementing knowledge management in the aforementioned organization will be easier than in organizations that differ significantly from each other in the seven criteria.
Conclusion
These findings demonstrated that despite this initial level, the organization possesses the potential to pursue implementation, and prioritizing the improvement of weaker dimensions may accelerate the process.
Research Paper
setareh parian; Mohammad Hassanzadeh; Atefeh Sharif
Abstract
Introduction
In recent years, the role of knowledge as one of the most important strategic resources of organizations has received more attention than ever before. Contemporary business environments are faced with a high rate of change, intense competition, and the need for continuous innovation, ...
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Introduction
In recent years, the role of knowledge as one of the most important strategic resources of organizations has received more attention than ever before. Contemporary business environments are faced with a high rate of change, intense competition, and the need for continuous innovation, and organizations that can create, store, transfer, and apply knowledge are more successful. In such a context, knowledge management, as a core organizational capability, can be effective in creating and maintaining competitive advantage. Recent studies in the field of strategic management and knowledge systems show that organizations are able to establish their competitive position when their knowledge processes are structured and based on support systems. Therefore, the present study aims to provide a comprehensive model to explain the relationship between knowledge management components and competitive advantage in the New Institute of Scholars.
This research seeks to answer the question of to what extent the various knowledge management processes, including knowledge creation, acquisition, storage, dissemination, and application, can help improve organizational performance and enhance the competitive advantage of the organization, and whether a suitable model can be provided for analyzing these relationships.
Research hypotheses
In this study, the impact of knowledge management components on competitive advantage is measured as follows:
There is a significant effect between knowledge management and competitive advantage in the New Institute of Scholars.
There is a significant effect between the knowledge production component of knowledge management and competitive advantage in the New Institute of Scholars.
There is a significant effect between the knowledge acquisition component of knowledge management and competitive advantage in the New Institute of Scholars.
There is a significant effect between the knowledge storage component of knowledge management and competitive advantage in the New Institute of Scholars.
There is a significant effect between the knowledge dissemination component of knowledge management and competitive advantage in the New Institute of Scholars.
There is a significant effect between the knowledge application component of knowledge management and competitive advantage in the New Institute of Scholars.
Literature Review
The existing theoretical background indicates that knowledge management is one of the main tools for realizing innovation, organizational learning, and continuous improvement. Recent studies also emphasize that knowledge management not only improves organizational decision-making, but also plays a key role in strengthening key capabilities of organizations, including product development, process improvement, and promoting intra-organizational interactions. Research published in the past three years shows that organizations that fully implement the knowledge management cycle perform significantly better in terms of service quality, organizational agility, and rapid response to environmental changes.
According to new findings, knowledge management has the greatest impact on competitive advantage when it is synergistic with organizational structure, learning culture, and innovative approaches. Therefore, a detailed examination of the relationships between knowledge management dimensions and competitive advantage can lead to the presentation of models that guide organizations on the path of sustainable development and improving effectiveness. Based on such a gap and research need, the present study aims to present a native model based on real data from the Novin Daneshpojohan Institute.
Methodology
This research is an applied research type and its method is a quantitative study. The statistical population of this study consists of 30 employees of the Novin Daneshpojohan Institute (due to the small number of these people and at the discretion of the supervisor, sampling was not carried out and the entire population was examined). Data collection was carried out using documentary and survey methods. The main tool was the Sharon Lawson (2003) Standard Knowledge Management Questionnaire, which has been used in various studies over the years and its compatibility with the organizational environment has been confirmed in numerous studies.
The questions of the present research questionnaire were developed according to the five-point Likert scale and using the Sharon Lawson (2003) Standard Knowledge Management Questionnaire, whose validity was examined and confirmed by experts in this field, and its reliability was assessed using Cronbach's alpha coefficient (0.871). SPSS software was used to analyze the data, and PLS software (and Q2, SRMR, NFI and GOF indices) was used to provide an appropriate model, as well as the descriptive statistical methods of mean, standard deviation, Pearson correlation, and nonparametric Smirnov-Kolmogorov test.
Results
According to the results obtained from the Pearson test, it was determined that the significance level of competitive advantage with the components of knowledge management (including creation, acquisition, storage, dissemination and application of knowledge) was less than 0.05, which indicates a significant relationship between them. These results indicate that each of the dimensions of knowledge has an effective role in promoting the competitive advantage of the institution.
In addition, according to the findings of structural equations, it was also determined that the t-value of all hypotheses is greater than 1.96, and as a result, all components of knowledge management have a significant relationship with competitive advantage. This finding clearly shows that knowledge management has a positive and significant effect on competitive advantage and its various components play a direct role in strengthening the competitive position of the organization. The fit indices also showed that the proposed model has a suitable and reliable fit and can be used as a valid model for analyzing the effects of knowledge management on competitive advantage.
Discussion
The results of this study, in line with recent studies, show that knowledge management as an organizational capability can significantly affect the performance and competitive advantage of organizations. The findings indicate that strengthening the processes of knowledge creation and acquisition keeps the organization up to date; storing and disseminating knowledge leads to the stability and correct transfer of information; and the application of knowledge is the final loop of value creation that leads to better decision-making and improved services.
The relationship analysis shows that knowledge-based organizations have a greater advantage in terms of innovation, response to changes, and provision of quality services compared to organizations that lack knowledge management structures. Given that the New Institute of Scholars has been trying to improve the level of performance and stakeholder satisfaction in recent years, paying attention to knowledge management can facilitate the path to achieving long-term organizational goals. The findings emphasize that investing in information technology, employee training, and developing information infrastructure can play an effective role in strengthening the knowledge management cycle.
Conclusion
The present study aimed to present a model for analyzing the relationship between knowledge management and competitive advantage, and the results indicate that knowledge management is one of the key elements of organizational survival and growth. All components of knowledge management play an influential and meaningful role in promoting competitive advantage, and organizations that implement this cycle completely and integratedly will have a greater ability to face competition and environmental changes. The model presented in this study can be used by managers of the New Institute for Scholars and other similar organizations as a valid framework for planning, decision-making, and implementing knowledge strategies.
Research Paper
Knowledge Management
Abbas Ghaedamini Harouni; Mehrdad Sadeghi; Zahra Sadeghi de cheshmeh; Ghulam Reza Maleki Farsani
Abstract
IntroductionAlthough in recent years, much research has been conducted to study transformational leadership, openness to change, organizational innovation and organizational learning, antecedents, consequences, and impact of those organizations, few studies have examined the impact of transformational ...
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IntroductionAlthough in recent years, much research has been conducted to study transformational leadership, openness to change, organizational innovation and organizational learning, antecedents, consequences, and impact of those organizations, few studies have examined the impact of transformational leadership on openness to change through organizational innovation and organizational learning. This research can have the following applications for the Islamic Azad University of Isfahan Branch in particular. 1. Transformational leadership in faculty members of the Islamic Azad University of Isfahan Branch is an important basis for employee activity since transformational leaders influence the beliefs, values, and goals of followers and leave a tremendous impact on their followers. They transform the entire organization through their words and actions. Followers of these leaders feel trust and loyalty towards them. Transformational leaders influence others through words, conversation, insight, and inspiration, and can influence employee motivation. If transformational leadership is implemented at Islamic Azad University, South Tehran Branch, it can lead to a positive attitude, better readiness, and commitment to organizational change. 2. Openness allows us not only to know ourselves better, but also allows others to know us better and learn about our experiences and abilities. This recognition can also be effective in dealing with the phenomenon of change. Therefore, the present study seeks to examine the effect of this variable on resistance to change. 3. Organizational innovation and organizational learning can affect openness to change. Therefore, this study has attempted to determine the effect of organizational innovation and organizational learning on openness to change in order to determine whether it is possible to find relationships in which organizational innovation and organizational learning can affect openness to change. Considering the gap in organizational behavior research related to transformational leadership and openness to change, the increasing importance of these organizational variables in determining the behavioral and attitudinal tendencies of managers, and the high importance of organizational innovation and organizational learning as a mediator role and one of the most important factors affecting employee emotions, the purpose of this study is to examine the effect of transformational leadership on attitudes towards change, both directly and through the mediation of organizational innovation and organizational learning. Can mediating variables act as mediators in the relationship between the two variables of transformational leadership and openness to change in faculty members of Islamic Azad University, Isfahan Branch?Literature ReviewPrevious research has highlighted the significant impact of transformational leadership on organizational change and organizational innovation, and learning. Ha et al. (2025) conducted a study titled The Impact of Transformational Leadership on Knowledge Creation: Mediation of Interpersonal Relationships and Learning Organizations using a descriptive survey method and a sample size of 288 employees in the United States. The results showed that transformational leadership had a positive impact on knowledge creation directly and indirectly through interpersonal relationships and learning organizations. Cao and Li (2024) conducted a study titled The Impact of Transformational Leadership on Organizational Change Capability: The Two-Way Mediating Role of Trust in Leadership using a descriptive survey method and a sample size of 376 employees in China. The results showed that employee trust in leadership and its dimensions had positive and significant effects on organizational change capability. Nasir et al. (2023) conducted a study titled The Effects of Transformational Leadership, Organizational Innovation, Work Stressors, and Creativity on Employee Performance in Small and Medium Enterprises using a descriptive survey method and a sample size of 288 Pakistani employees. The results showed that the stressors of challenge, transformational leadership, and employee creativity all had positive and significant effects on employee performance. Given the nascent nature of the concept of transformational leadership, more research is needed to examine its effects and antecedents. These studies can fill existing research gaps and provide a better understanding of the relationship between transformational leadership and openness to change. Despite its well-known benefits, little research has examined transformational leadership among faculty members to suggest appropriate policies and practices to equip faculty members with the required skills.MethodologyThe present study is applied in terms of purpose, because it deals with the use of the variables proposed to help the attitude towards change. On the other hand, the aforementioned study is descriptive in terms of the method of collecting data, and is of the correlation type. Because it examines the effects of transformational leadership on openness to change through the variables of organizational learning and organizational innovation, and examines the relationships between the aforementioned variables in the form of structural equation modeling. The statistical population of this study is all faculty members of the Islamic Azad University of Isfahan Branch, 380 people, from whom sampling was carried out. The size of the statistical population is limited, and when the size of the statistical population is limited, the number of samples using the Cochran formula is 180 people. In this study, a stratified sampling method proportional to the size was used.ResultsThe results of the research showed that transformational leadership has a positive and significant effect on openness to change through organizational learning, with a coefficient of this effect of 0.45, and through organizational innovation, with a coefficient of this effect of 0.44, and also transformational leadership has a positive and significant effect on openness to change, with a coefficient of this effect of 0.66.DiscussionThis study, which aimed to investigate the effect of transformational leadership on openness to change through innovation and organizational learning, provided evidence of the role of transformational leadership in spreading openness to change through innovation and organizational learning in employees. The main hypothesis of the study, based on the fact that transformational leadership has an effect on openness to change through innovation and organizational learning, was confirmed. These findings from the present study were not found among domestic and foreign research, a study that is exactly in line with the present study, but among domestic research, there is a direct alignment with the research of Mehran Fard et al. (2018), and Manti et al. (2017), Ghanbari and Kaveh (2017), Rastegar and colleagues (2016), Farazja and Khademi (2011), Yu et al. (2019), Carreiro and colleagues (2019), Liu and colleagues (2018), and Birasnav et al. (2013). In explaining these results, it can be said that the Islamic Azad University of Isfahan Branch is one of the universities that is facing a lot of changes. Therefore, in order to survive and be dynamic, it has to adapt itself to environmental changes, predict the changes that it may encounter in the future, and try to guide the changes in order to create desirable developments to build a better future, because only by creatively utilizing change to guide change can Islamic Azad University of Isfahan Branch be safe from future damage and shocks and achieve a better future. However, in this process, faculty members may resist change for many reasons, such as lack of control, fear of the unknown, loss of face and competence, need for security, poor scheduling, pressure of habits, lack of support, and lack of self-confidence.ConclusionToday, many changes have occurred in the socio-economic system and have confronted organizations with numerous opportunities and threats. Therefore, due to environmental complexity and uncertainty, and in order to respond quickly and appropriately to environmental challenges, organizations need creative and innovation-based solutions. It is clear that innovation will require some background. This is achieved by paying attention to organizational learning. Innovation and organizational learning are two related categories. Organizational learning provides the necessary context and conditions for innovation to emerge, followed by improved performance and competitive advantages, and organizational innovations, in turn, promote and update the organizational knowledge base. Organizational learning, by creating and generating new ideas, leads to innovation and improves performance. And it affects its performance not only directly, but also through innovation. In today's conditions, when organizations are faced with a global competitive environment, there is always a need for radical changes and creative work. The global competitive force forces today's organizations to replace their fixed work methods and procedures with new work methods after years of continuing, so that organizations that do not have work stability enjoy a kind of relative stability in order not to be left behind. Most of these organizations benefit from change management skills and try to create fundamental changes within the organization with special courage and audacity. In such situations, the role of transformational leaders will become more prominent. Transformational leaders pay attention to the needs and motivation of subordinates and improve personal, group, and organizational needs, and provide new opportunities for the organization to identify effective ways to get work done.
Research Paper
Knowledge Management
Reza Maleki; Mahdi Alipour-Hafezi; Sahar Yaghouti Pileroud
Abstract
Introduction
In today's competitive landscape, knowledge is recognized as a critical organizational asset and a key driver of success. Consequently, many organizations invest significantly in Knowledge Management (KM) initiatives. However, the success of these initiatives is not guaranteed by technology ...
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Introduction
In today's competitive landscape, knowledge is recognized as a critical organizational asset and a key driver of success. Consequently, many organizations invest significantly in Knowledge Management (KM) initiatives. However, the success of these initiatives is not guaranteed by technology alone; it is profoundly dependent on establishing a supportive organizational culture. While KM rests on three main pillars technology, processes, and people the human and cultural factors are paramount. A primary obstacle to KM implementation is the tendency for knowledge hoarding, driven by the belief that "knowledge is power." Therefore, fostering a "Knowledge Culture" an environment where creating, sharing, and utilizing knowledge are valued and encouraged as natural behaviors is essential. Experts like Liebowitz and Chen assert that up to 80% of KM success is attributable to people and culture.
The challenge for organizations is not merely implementing KM systems but cultivating this underlying culture. Changing organizational culture to embrace knowledge is often cited as one of the most difficult aspects of KM. Without a deep understanding of the factors that shape a knowledge culture, efforts to implement KM risk failure, leading to wasted resources and employee resistance. This study addresses this critical gap by aiming to systematically identify and prioritize the key factors that influence the development and sustenance of a knowledge culture within organizations. By doing so, it seeks to provide a robust framework to help organizations assess their cultural readiness and strategically enhance their knowledge environment.
Literature Review
Knowledge Management infrastructure is commonly conceptualized through models like Becerra-Fernandez's, which identifies three core components: technology, processes, and people. The "people" layer, encompassing culture, is consistently highlighted as the most critical. Knowledge culture is understood as a specific subset of organizational culture. It is defined as a way of organizational life that enables and motivates people to create, share, and utilize knowledge for the benefit and sustained success of the organization. It reflects the organization's values, beliefs, and behaviors concerning knowledge. Scholars such as Davenport and Prusak, and De Long and Fahey, have emphasized the inseparable link between culture and KM, noting that culture dictates what knowledge is valued, defines the relationship between individual and organizational knowledge, and shapes the social interactions through which knowledge is shared.
Given its importance, numerous studies have explored the factors influencing knowledge culture, though often in a fragmented, case-specific manner. Research by authors like Pahlavani et al. pointed to factors such as information systems, people, processes, and reward systems. Khairandish and Abtahi identified participation, learning, trust, and knowledge leadership. Studies by Niknam and Jafari, utilizing the Sarros et al. organizational culture profile, found significant correlations with KM and factors like performance orientation, competitiveness, and supportiveness. International research, such as that by Oliver and Kandadi, used case studies to identify ten major factors, including leadership, communication, and reward systems. Al-Alawi et al. highlighted trust, communication, and information systems as critical for knowledge sharing.
While these studies provide valuable insights, a comprehensive synthesis that consolidates these findings and provides a generalizable, prioritized list of factors remains absent from the literature. This research addresses this gap by employing a systematic meta-synthesis approach to integrate the findings of previous qualitative and quantitative studies.
Methodology
This applied research was conducted using a qualitative approach and employed the meta-synthesis method. Meta-synthesis is a systematic approach for integrating findings from multiple qualitative studies to develop a more comprehensive and holistic understanding of a phenomenon. This study specifically followed the seven-step model proposed by Sandelowski and Barroso. The research process began with formulating the primary research question regarding the factors affecting knowledge culture in organizations. Subsequently, a systematic literature review was conducted. Key Persian and English scientific databases were searched using keywords such as "knowledge culture," "knowledge-based culture," "organizational culture in knowledge management," and their Persian equivalents. In the initial screening, 95 studies were selected based on title relevance. After reviewing the abstracts, this number was refined. A final, in-depth content analysis of the full texts resulted in the selection of 24 highly relevant primary studies for the meta-synthesis. From these selected studies, data on the factors influencing knowledge culture, along with study characteristics, were extracted and coded. The extracted codes were then analyzed, compared, and synthesized into broader thematic categories representing the key factors. Finally, to prioritize these factors, they were scored based on three indicators: frequency of occurrence across the studies, recency of the studies, and the factor's direct relevance to knowledge culture, organizational culture, and knowledge management.
Results
The meta-synthesis of the 24 selected studies led to the identification of 47 distinct factors that influence knowledge culture in organizations. These factors encompass a wide range of organizational dimensions, from leadership and strategy to individual behaviors and technological infrastructure. Examples include leadership, trust, reward systems, communication, organizational structure, learning, and information technology. To determine the most critical factors, each of the 47 factors was scored based on frequency, recency, and relevance. This prioritization process revealed that 11 factors stood out as having the most significant impact. Topping the list with the highest score was Reward Systems, followed closely by Education, Learning, and Empowerment. Supportiveness and Trust secured the next positions, underscoring the importance of a safe and encouraging environment. Creativity and Innovation, along with Communication, formed the next tier of highly influential factors. Performance Orientation, Stability, and Competitiveness followed, all achieving identical scores that reflect their consistent, albeit slightly less frequent, mention in the literature. Leadership, while often considered paramount, ranked tenth in this specific prioritization, suggesting its influence may be channeled through other factors. Finally, Information and Communication Technology, though essential as an enabler, ranked eleventh, confirming the consensus that technology is a necessary but insufficient condition for KM success.
Discussion
The findings of this meta-synthesis provide a consolidated and prioritized framework for understanding the drivers of knowledge culture. By integrating results from 24 previous studies, it moves beyond single-case insights to offer a more generalizable model. The top-ranked factor, Reward Systems, underscores the fundamental principle that behavior is driven by incentives. Organizations seeking to promote knowledge sharing must align their reward structures to recognize and reinforce such behaviors, moving away from traditional systems that may inadvertently reward knowledge hoarding. The high priority of Education, Learning, and Empowerment highlights that a knowledge culture is not a static state but a dynamic process requiring continuous development. Employees need not only the skills to manage knowledge but also the autonomy and motivation to do so.
This is closely linked to Supportiveness, which implies a managerial and organizational environment that encourages experimentation and views mistakes as learning opportunities. Trust, another top-tier factor, is the social glue that enables open communication and sharing, as without it, employees are unlikely to share their valuable knowledge. Interestingly, while Leadership is often cited as paramount, its ranking suggests that its influence might be channeled through more direct mechanisms like creating supportive structures, building trust, and establishing effective reward systems. The position of ICT confirms that the cultural and human elements are the true differentiators in fostering a successful knowledge culture.
Conclusion
This study successfully identified and prioritized 11 critical factors that significantly influence the development of a knowledge culture in organizations. The findings offer a robust, evidence-based framework for both researchers and practitioners. For managers, this prioritized list provides a clear diagnostic tool. Organizations can assess their current standing on these 11 dimensions to identify strengths and weaknesses, enabling a more focused and strategic approach to fostering a knowledge-conducive environment. By addressing these core factors starting with reward systems, learning opportunities, and building trust organizations can significantly enhance their readiness for successful KM implementation, thereby improving innovation, performance, and competitive advantage. This research contributes to the field by synthesizing fragmented knowledge into a cohesive and prioritized model, offering a foundation for future research to empirically test and refine these relationships in various organizational contexts.
Acknowledgment
The author would like to thank all the researchers whose valuable work formed the basis of this meta-synthesis, and all those who provided support and guidance throughout this study.
Research Paper
Evaluation of Information and Knowledge Retrieval Systems
Mohammad Ebrahim Samie; Farnoosh Barati
Abstract
Introduction
Knowledge management is a planned and structured perspective aimed at creating, sharing, storing, and utilizing knowledge to enhance an organization's capability, speed, and effectiveness in delivering products or services. From the perspective of scientists and scholars, technology is ...
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Introduction
Knowledge management is a planned and structured perspective aimed at creating, sharing, storing, and utilizing knowledge to enhance an organization's capability, speed, and effectiveness in delivering products or services. From the perspective of scientists and scholars, technology is the final product of research or technical knowledge that is transformed into a commercial product. Technology commercialization means the movement of ideas from research laboratories to the market. Innovation refers to the successful and beneficial implementation of creative ideas within a company. In today's competitive market, companies are compelled to utilize all their knowledge capacities and commercialize them through innovative strategies and actions in order to remain at the forefront. For this purpose, companies can achieve this by focusing more on knowledge management and establishing the necessary and standard infrastructure in this field. To take action and realize this important goal, a precise examination of the subject must first be conducted. In this regard, we will examine the impact of knowledge management on technology commercialization performance, emphasizing the role of organizational innovation mediator, so that managers can provide the results of this research to managers and decision-makers of companies so that they can reach a more informed decision. In the present article, the role of organizational innovation and knowledge management on improving the level of technology commercialization performance in Sepahan Battery Company, as one of the world-class manufacturing companies, has been examined to surpass other competitors.
Hypothesis(es)
HMain: Knowledge management, along with the mediating role of organizational innovation, has a positive and significant effect on technology commercialization performance.
The sub-hypotheses of the research are as follows:
H1: Knowledge management has a positive and significant effect on technology commercialization performance.
H2: Knowledge management has a positive and significant effect on organizational innovation.
H3: Organizational innovation has a positive and significant effect on technology commercialization performance.
Literature Review
In this section, previous researches are categorized and discussed based on thematic topics of knowledge management, organizational innovation, and technology commercialization performance.
Knowledge management
Many operational studies in this field are mentioned, including (Karami et al. 2018), (Tavalaei et al. 2021), (Morovvati et al. 2023), (Bavakhani et al. 2020), (Birami Erdy et al. 2019), (Birvanvand et al. 2021), and (Jiang et al. 2025). Knowledge management processes in this study – Discovery, Capture, Sharing and Application - are also adapted from the reference (Samie and Jazghani 2022).
Organizational innovation
Various studies have been mentioned, including (Khairgoo et al. 2019), (Kalkan et al. 2014), (Hervas-Oliver et al. 2015), (Maqsoudi et al. 2021), (Riaz et al. 2025), and (Harsono et al. 2025). In the present study, organizational innovation has been examined and measured based on the three dimensions mentioned by Mardani, including innovation speed, innovation quality, and innovation quantity (Mardani 2021).
Technology commercialization performance
Extensive researches have been mentioned, including (Kim et al. 2020), (Daniel and Alves 2020), (Daneshjoovash et al. 2021), (Kiani Ghale-Sard et al. 2021), (Abdinejad et al. 2022), (Etebari et al. 2021), (Satar et al. 2025), and (Al Halbusi et al. 2025). In the present study, technology commercialization performance was measured based on four dimensions - number of new products, faster time to market, future of the market, and effective use of technical knowledge - mentioned in the Reference (Kiani and Rafat 2021).
Methodology
The statistical population is the commercialization unit of Sepahan Battery Company with 100 employees. 70 questionnaires were used for analysis. The questionnaire includes 32 main questions, the number of indicators explaining the research variables, which were designed based on a five-point Likert scale from completely disagree (1) to completely agree (5). For validity analysis (convergent and divergent), the structural equation technique was used, using the partial least squares method, and to examine the reliability of the questionnaire, three criteria of factor loading coefficients, Cronbach's alpha, and composite reliability were used. In the partial least squares method, before testing the hypotheses, the measurement model and structural model of the research were examined by Smart PLS software.
Results
The results of the study using the structural equation modeling technique, using the partial least squares method, showed that knowledge management has a significant effect on organizational innovation, with a value of 0.508. Knowledge management also has a significant effect on technology commercialization performance with a value of 0.345, and the mediation of organizational innovation in the relationship between knowledge management and technology commercialization performance has a significant effect with a value of 0.373.
Discussion
In support of H1, it can be stated that knowledge management processes have a significant impact on technology commercialization performance and lead to more and newer products in less time, and will create a better future for the organization in a competitive market. In addition, the company can make optimal use of inventions and technical knowledge by improving its knowledge, which will improve technology commercialization performance.
In support of H2, it can be said that the establishment of a knowledge management system in the organization leads to greater speed, higher quality, and greater quantity in the organization's innovation, and thus helps the organization to surpass its competitors. In addition, the increased motivation created among employees by establishing a knowledge management system will lead to more knowledge sharing by them and the optimal application of knowledge in the organization, which in turn will lead to the creation of innovative ideas, strategies, and processes by them.
In support of H3, it can be said that the starting point of innovation and improving the performance of technology commercialization is achieving the quality and quantity of new products and services at a faster rate, as the main inputs that lead to the production of new products in less time using inventions and technical knowledge, and ensuring the future of the market. Given the inherent risk in innovative plans for technology commercialization, it is essential to pay attention to financial resources and their provision, such as attracting capital from industrial investment institutions, obtaining commercial loans, joint ventures, providing foreign investment capabilities, and receiving government support. In summary, the present study will address the concerns of managers in establishing a knowledge management system and an innovation system in strategies, ideas, and methods in order to improve the performance of technology commercialization.
Conclusion
It can be concluded that the survival of Sepahan Battery Company and the creation of a sustainable competitive advantage for this company depend on the continuous improvement of organizational knowledge and its management, providing a platform for the creation and application of organizational innovations, and, as a result, improving the performance of technology commercialization.
