An Indigenous Grounded Theory Model for Technology Commercialization in Technology-Based and Knowledge-Based Firms
Keywords:
Technology commercialization, Analytic Network Process technique, grounded theory, innovation ecosystem, strategic managementAbstract
This study aims to design an indigenous and comprehensive model for technology commercialization in Iranian technology-based and knowledge-based firms using a grounded theory approach. This qualitative research employed grounded theory using an interpretive paradigm and inductive reasoning. Data were gathered through semi-structured interviews with 13 experts selected through purposive and snowball sampling until theoretical saturation was achieved. Interview durations ranged from 25 to 60 minutes. Data analysis followed Strauss and Corbin’s open, axial, and selective coding procedures. Through line-by-line coding, 38 initial categories emerged and were systematically grouped into six main components: causal conditions, the core phenomenon, contextual conditions, intervening conditions, strategies, and consequences. The analysis was conducted concurrently with data collection to ensure theoretical sensitivity, iterative refinement, and the emergence of a coherent paradigmatic model. The analysis revealed that technology commercialization is influenced by key causal factors such as market needs identification, technological innovation, and market foresight. Contextual conditions including the technology ecosystem, regulatory frameworks, cultural and social dynamics, and financial capabilities significantly shape commercialization readiness. Intervening conditions—particularly international sanctions, regulatory instability, and financial shortages—were found to either facilitate or hinder commercialization trajectories. Effective commercialization strategies were identified, such as marketing, branding, networking, collaboration with universities, standardization, export planning, the use of emerging technologies, and feasibility analysis. These strategies collectively lead to desirable outcomes including profitability, market expansion, customer satisfaction, sustainable production, and competitive advantage. The study presents a comprehensive grounded theory model that explains how technological, institutional, market-based, and strategic factors interact to shape technology commercialization in knowledge-based firms. The model highlights the need for ecosystem strengthening, regulatory stability, and capability-building to enable successful commercialization outcomes in emerging economies.
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Copyright (c) 2026 Sayyed Yaser Moeinoddini Chadeghani, Hassan Ghorbani Dinani, Seid Mohammad Reza Mirahmadi (Author)
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