Technology Transfer Process in the Leather and Footwear Industry: Integrating Theoretical and Empirical Evidence within a Multi-Grounded Theory Framework

Mazloomi, Karim; Fathi Hafeshejani, Kiamars; Hajizadeh, Peyman; Jalalpour, SeyedehSedighe

doi:10.22034/jtst.2025.535938.1505

Technology Transfer Process in the Leather and Footwear Industry: Integrating Theoretical and Empirical Evidence within a Multi-Grounded Theory Framework

Articles in Press

Document Type : Research/ Original/ Regular Article

Authors

Karim Mazloomi ¹

Kiamars Fathi Hafeshejani ²

Peyman Hajizadeh ²

SeyedehSedighe Jalalpour ³

¹ Department of Technology Management, South Tehran Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran. Karim.mazloomi@iau.ir

² Department of Industrial Management, South Tehran Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran.

³ Department of Technology Management, South Tehran Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran.

10.22034/jtst.2025.535938.1505

Abstract

The primary objective of this study is to design an indigenous, problem-oriented framework for technology transfer in Iran’s leather and footwear industry. To achieve this aim, the Multi-Grounded Theory (MGT) approach was employed. In the first phase, a meta-synthesis of 59 scholarly articles published between 2003 and 2025 was conducted to identify and integrate the key components of technology transfer. Subsequently, empirical data were collected through 18 semi-structured interviews with industry experts and analyzed using open, axial, and selective coding. The findings led to the identification of six critical stages in the technology transfer process: technology assessment and needs analysis, alignment with local infrastructures, partner selection and transfer strategy, technology absorption and localization, organizational learning and empowerment, and cyclical monitoring and development. The final model, derived from the integration of theoretical and empirical evidence, provides a practical and indigenous framework for managing technology transfer in the leather and footwear sector. The novelty of this research lies in the development of a stage-based, context-specific, and dynamic model that not only emphasizes local learning clusters and institutional engagement but also incorporates environmental considerations and sustainability into the technology transfer cycle. As such, the proposed model represents an innovative framework that can be extended to related industries such as textiles and apparel.

Keywords

Technology transfer

Leather and footwear industry

Meta-synthesis

Multi-Grounded Theory

Subjects