Is Tehran a knowledge city?

Abstract

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to identify general success factors (GSFs), key success factors (KSFs) and critical success factors (CSFs) needed to change Tehran to a Knowledge City (KC).Design/methodology/approachThe paper briefly reviews the literature related to KCs, and especially the factors necessary for a KC. Through the review of the literature GSFs are identified, followed by statistical evidence to determine which one of the GSFs are KSFs and which can be considered as CSF or competency factors (CF).FindingsThe findings of the research indicate that there are 27 relevant items and seven main factors as GSFs for changing Tehran to a KC. Also, the authors find that all seven GSFs are both KSFs and CSFs.Research limitations/implicationsAs the research is limited to a specific city, the findings cannot be generalized. Also, limited familiarity of the concept of KCs by practitioners and academic members can be considered as another limitation of the study.Practical implicationsThis study is of benefit to those authorities/agencies trying to change Tehran to a KC.Originality/valueThe paper provides insights to different dimensions of KCs, and has identified GSFs, KSFs and CSFs for a city that intends to become a KC.