Designing a Multi-Level Governance Model in Complex Organizations Based on Grounded Theory and Meta-Synthesis

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 PhD. Candidate, Department of System Management, Imam Hossein Comprehensive University, Tehran, Iran.

2 Assistant Professor of Imam Hossein University, Tehran, Faculty of Management and Strategic Planning.

Abstract

Objective:
Multilevel governance is essential for achieving the vision and goals of today’s complex organizations. Therefore, the aim of this research is to present a multilevel governance model for complex organizations using a meta-synthesis of existing research based on the grounded theory proposed by Strauss and Corbin.
Methods:
This research is developmental in nature and employs meta-synthesis and grounded theory methodologies. Initially, the seven-step meta-synthesis approach suggested by Sandelowski and Barroso was utilized. In total, 67 sources were selected for the final meta-synthesis, from which 194 initial concepts, 43 sub-categories, and 20 main categories were extracted. In the second step, a final model based on grounded theory was presented.
Results:
The findings indicated that components of subject complexity, policy, and structure act as causal factors, while route lock and poor inter-departmental coordination serve as contextual factors. Stakeholder agreement and infrastructure availability were identified as intervening factors. Strategies included stakeholder participation, evidence-based actions, and re-engineering structures and processes. Components leading to all stakeholders accessing benefits, the capability to recognize environmental changes, and legitimacy are among the results and outcomes derived from multilevel governance in complex organizations.
Conclusion:
According to the derived model, utilizing the components introduced in this research can effectively promote desirable multilevel governance in complex organizations. Implementing these components is expected to enhance stakeholder benefit realization, the ability to recognize environmental changes, resolution of inter-departmental conflicts, transparency, participation, and legitimacy, thereby improving the process of achieving the organization’s vision and goals.

Keywords

References

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Governance and Development
Volume 4, Issue 4
December 2024
Pages 39-82

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