A Conceptual Model of the Dimensions and Components Influencing Open Innovation Implementation through Russell Ackoff's Systems Thinking Approach: A Case Study of a Mining Project-Based Organization

Document Type : Original Article

Authors
mehdi Adibifard 1
Yaser Ghaseminejad 2
Mohammad Mahdi Mohtadi 2
1 Department of Management and Accounting, Ro.C., Islamic Azad University, Roudehen, Iran
2 Department of Management and Strategic Planning, Imam Hossein Comprehensive University, Tehran, Iran
10.22034/jmek.2026.601307.1206
Abstract
The present study aims to explain the dimensions and components involved in the implementation of open innovation in a project-based mining organization using a systems approach. This research adopts a qualitative approach and was conducted using the meta-synthesis method. Accordingly, 1,476 relevant scientific sources published between 2015 and 2025 were selected from various domestic and international databases, and ultimately 73 articles aligned with the research objective were evaluated and analyzed. The initial findings of the meta-synthesis included two main dimensions, ten components, and 83 indicators. To adapt these to the specific conditions of the Iranian mining industry, a localization process was conducted with the participation of 27 experts and senior managers from the fields of research and development, project management, and production. Subsequently, the content validity of the indicators was assessed using the Fuzzy Delphi method, and all indicators were confirmed with scores above the threshold. Finally, the research findings were presented in the form of a conceptual model based on Russell Ackoff’s systems approach. According to this model, the intra-organizational level includes eight components: human resources and skills, structure and processes, finance and investment, supportive and cultural factors, knowledge-based development, business strategies, collaboration and communication, and technological infrastructures. Furthermore, the extra-organizational level comprises two components: environmental factors and innovation intermediaries. This model, emphasizing systemic interactions, provides a comprehensive framework for successfully implementing open innovation in project-based organizations.
Keywords
Conceptual Model
Project-Based Organization
Open Innovation
Systems Approach
Mining Industry.
Subjects
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  • Receive Date 18 May 2026
  • Revise Date 25 July 2026
  • Accept Date 28 August 2026