Comprehensive evaluation of Iranian regional innovation system (RIS) performance using analytic hierarchy process (AHP)

Abstract

Purpose This study aims to to provide a model based on the context and conditions of the regions in Iran for monitoring regional innovation systems (RISs). Design/methodology/approach In the first stage, after reviewing the literature, interviewing the experts, and then thematic analyzing the content of the obtained data, initial Dimensions and indicators were identified. Then, a fuzzy Delphi technique and a seven-scale questionnaire were used to test the results and expert opinion. Finally, after the extraction and correction of the indicators to evaluate the RISs, a comprehensive model was identified in 5 dimensions, 16 indicators and 176 sub-indicators. In the next step, the importance weights of the main 16 indicators were determined using the analytic hierarchy process method. Findings The proposed RIS assessment model consists of firms’ behavior and regional interactions, economy, human capital, innovative outputs, locational features, that each dimension has its own indicators and sub-indicators, each one is discussed in the paper. Originality/value The research contribution is that the proposed RIS model of this research is the first model that is appropriate to the context of Iran.