A Network Governance Model Based on the General Policies of Social Security Issued by the Supreme Leader

Abstract

The objective of this study is to develop a practical and context-driven network governance model aligned with the General Policies of Social Security issued by the Supreme Leader of Iran. This applied and developmental study employed a qualitative grounded theory approach. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews with 14 experts in network governance and social security, selected through purposive and snowball sampling until theoretical saturation was achieved. Interview transcripts were analyzed using open, axial, and selective coding with MAXQDA 2020 software. Analysis revealed five core dimensions of the proposed model: causal conditions (organizational structure and essential prerequisites for implementation), contextual conditions (cultural, social, legal, and institutional backgrounds), intervening conditions (environmental changes, stakeholder pressures, resource shortages, and inter-organizational misalignment), strategies (tools, mechanisms, and phased stages of design, implementation, and evaluation), and consequences (positive outcomes such as improved efficiency, enhanced public participation, cost reduction, and service improvement, along with potential negative outcomes including increased complexity or reduced accountability). The findings demonstrate that effective network governance in the Social Security Organization requires structural coherence, strengthened inter-organizational collaboration, strategic management of external challenges, integration of technological tools, and continuous evaluation. Successful implementation of the proposed model can enhance institutional efficiency, stakeholder satisfaction, and the overall performance of the social security system.