Journal of Resource Management and Decision Engineering 3 Serial Number 9 2024 12 01 Modeling the Development of Smart Government in Iranian Public Sector Institutions: A Qualitative Study Modeling the Development of Smart Government in Iranian Public Sector Institutions: A Qualitative Study 39 46 10.61838/kman.jrmde.3.4.5 EN Journal Article 2024 09 17 <p>This study aims to model the development of smart government in Iranian public sector institutions through the identification of key factors, processes, and strategies that enable effective digital transformation. The research employed a qualitative methodology, using semi-structured interviews with fifteen experts in the field of smart government selected through purposive and snowball sampling. Data collection also included the review of strategic documents, governmental reports, and policy papers. Content analysis was conducted to extract themes and concepts, followed by open, axial, and selective coding. The data were categorized into five overarching domains: causal conditions, contextual conditions, intervening conditions, strategies, and outcomes. Nvivo software was used to facilitate the systematic organization and coding of qualitative data. The findings revealed eleven major axial codes across the five selective categories. Among the causal conditions, user-centered service design and stakeholder ecosystem development were prominent. Contextual conditions highlighted digital infrastructure readiness and system integration. Intervening conditions included digital skills training and the promotion of an innovation-oriented culture. Strategic actions involved evaluating service sustainability, leveraging big data, and analyzing digital business models. Identified outcomes included improved access to accurate data and enhanced problem response cycles. The study emphasizes the need for alignment between organizational structures, cultural adaptability, technological investment, and policy frameworks to ensure the effective implementation of smart government. The transition toward smart government in Iran requires a comprehensive and integrative approach that considers not only technological advancement but also institutional reform, cultural change, and strategic coordination. A sustainable smart government model must be citizen-centric, transparent, and data-driven, supported by collaborative ecosystems and guided by inclusive governance principles.</p> <p> </p> https://journalrmde.com/index.php/jrmde/article/download/67/60