Developing and Validating a Model for Evaluating Policies on Attracting and Utilizing Public Capacity in the Iranian Administrative System

This study aimed to develop and validate a model for evaluating policies related to the attraction and utilization of public capacity in the Iranian administrative system. This applied research used a sequential exploratory mixed-methods approach. The qualitative phase included a systematic literature review and thematic content analysis, while the quantitative phase employed a descriptive-correlational design. Participants in the qualitative phase included policy-making experts, NGO managers, and senior administrators from southern provinces. The quantitative sample included 277 public sector managers selected through multi-stage cluster sampling. Data were collected using semi-structured interviews and a 79-item researcher-made questionnaire. Validity was assessed through expert review and content and construct validity indices, while reliability was evaluated using Cronbach’s alpha and composite reliability. Data analysis was conducted using MAXQDA and SmartPLS software. Findings revealed a comprehensive model comprising eight main dimensions: transparency and information, justice and equality, skills identification and selection, research and development, participation and partnership, economic justification assessment, legal compliance assessment, and innovation culture. Each dimension was supported by relevant components and validated indicators. Confirmatory factor analysis and one-sample t-tests confirmed the model’s internal and external validity. The goodness-of-fit index (GOF = 0.652) confirmed strong model fit. The R² values exceeded 0.67 and Q² values were in the acceptable predictive range, indicating high explanatory and predictive power. The proposed model provides a validated and context-specific framework for evaluating policy mechanisms to harness public capacity in the Iranian administrative system. It offers practical guidance for improving governance quality through inclusive participation and can serve as a strategic tool for public policy makers and administrators.