Developing a functional framework for the rural technological innovation system; Emphasizing the irrigation systems in a rural community of central Iran

Abstract

ABSTRACT Technological innovation systems have mostly been studied in cities and focused on specific technologies. As the villages are comparatively different in scale and socioeconomic and technical characteristics, the functional expectations of technology in rural environments are also different. In this regard, this study aims to identify the functions of the Rural Technological Innovation System (RTIS) in irrigation systems of rural areas in Taft County, central Iran. Applying the Grounded Theory Method, the research is conducted qualitatively. Data was gathered primarily, by interviewing the managers and experts of water, agriculture, and technology. Results identified 12 functions for RTIS, the Seven are overlapped with the functions previously proposed for other TISs. New distinct ones are ‘guaranteeing spatio-social justice’, ‘continuous monitoring and choosing appropriate technology’, ‘accountability and transparency’, ‘Positive imagery and raising hope’ and ‘ensuring sustainability and enhancing effectiveness’. Identifying the functions an RTIS should have, revealed some deficiencies the studied villages face in developing innovation and technology that are expected to be resolved by implementing an RTIS.