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Exploring strategies for enhancing innovation capabilities in public service organizations

Document Type : Research Paper

Authors

1 Department of Public Administration, Faculty of Management and Economics, Tarbiat Modares University,Tehran, Iran.

2 Associate Professor, Department of Public Administration, Faculty of Management and Economics, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran.

3 Assistant Professor, Department of Public Administration, Faculty of Management and Economics, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran.

Abstract

The present study aims to explore strategies for improving innovation capabilities in public service organizations, case study: Tehran Municipality. This research is developmental-applied in terms of purpose and qualitative in nature with an inductive approach. The data collection method in this study is based on field studies (semi-structured interviews). In order to analyze the data, the coding method was used using Maxqda software based on thematic analysis technique. The research findings showed that the main strategies for improving innovation capabilities in Tehran Municipality include promoting innovation culture (knowledge-based innovation culture, citizen-centered innovation culture), using new technologies (smart system technologies, digitalization of urban services), They are continuous monitoring and evaluation of programs (monitoring citizen needs, continuous monitoring of programs), human resource empowerment (skills development, continuous training), optimal utilization of resources (dynamic capabilities, cost optimization), coalition strategy (active participation of the municipality, networking, active participation of citizens), and transformation strategy (transformational leadership, transformation in research and development). The results of this research can help managers and policymakers in Tehran Municipality and other organizations providing public services to improve their innovation capabilities and provide better services to citizens by applying these strategies.

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References
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DOR: 20.1001.1.23225386.1401.11.3.1.7[in persian]

Management Studies in Development and Evolution
Volume 35, Issue 119 - Serial Number 119
April 2026
Pages 1-41
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History
  • Receive Date: 31 August 2025
  • Revise Date: 16 November 2025
  • Accept Date: 22 December 2025
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