Designing a Digital Innovation Model for Maximum Performance-Based Utilization in the Mining Industry

Abstract

The aim of this study is to design a digital innovation exploitation model for Iran’s mining industries with an emphasis on enhancing performance, sustainability, and competitiveness. The research adopts a mixed-methods (qualitative-quantitative) grounded theory approach. A review of the literature revealed that international models are not fully responsive to the needs of Iran’s mining industry due to infrastructural and cultural differences, highlighting the necessity for a localized model. The qualitative sample consisted of 15 experts and managers from the mining industry, selected through purposive sampling based on expertise, experience, and diversity, with data collected via semi-structured interviews and analyzed using grounded theory. In the quantitative section, data from 220 questionnaires were gathered from managers and mining experts nationwide using stratified sampling and analyzed through structural equation modeling (SEM). The qualitative findings identified weaknesses in technological infrastructure, lack of innovation culture, and the absence of data-driven governance frameworks as key barriers. The main factors recognized include managerial support, transformational leadership, technology localization, and integration of management software. The results indicate that strengthening human capital, data-driven decision-making, and macro-level policymaking provide the foundation for achieving maximum utilization, profitability, and sustainability throughout the mining value chain. Quantitative findings confirmed the validity and goodness-of-fit of the proposed model and identified operational strategies to advance digital innovation. This study offers a novel foundation for policymaking and developing a localized digital transformation model in Iran’s mining sector.