Sport Economics, Marketing and Tourism
Sadegh Fatahi Milasi; Nooshin Benar
Abstract
Objective: The purpose of this study was to develop a localized and stage-based framework for analyzing and evaluating the digital transformation maturity of small and medium-sized sports enterprises (SMEs).Methodology: This research employed a systematic review and qualitative meta-synthesis approach ...
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Objective: The purpose of this study was to develop a localized and stage-based framework for analyzing and evaluating the digital transformation maturity of small and medium-sized sports enterprises (SMEs).Methodology: This research employed a systematic review and qualitative meta-synthesis approach based on Sandelowski and Barroso’s (2007) seven-stage model. In this process, 32 scientific articles published between 2020 and 2025 were collected from reputable databases such as Scopus and Web of Science, based on specific criteria including publication language (English), time frame, type of scientific study, methodological approach (qualitative or quantitative), and focus on digital transformation in SMEs. The key dimensions and indicators of digital maturity were identified through qualitative content analysis and validated using the CASP tool and Cohen’s Kappa coefficient (0.873).Results: The proposed framework identifies five key dimensions: Strategy and Leadership, Processes, Technology and Infrastructure, Human Resources and Culture, and Ecosystem and External Environment, with 31 operational indicators. A five-level digital maturity model tailored for sports SMEs was developed, emphasizing practical assessment and actionable roadmaps for digital transformation.Conclusion: The framework provides a simple, actionable tool for sports SMEs to assess their digital maturity and plan strategic improvements, aligning with local constraints. It supports sustainable growth by addressing internal and external factors, offering a roadmap for policymakers and managers in developing countries.
Sahel Qaderi; Mina Mallaei; Reza Simbar; Sadegh Fatahi
Abstract
Objective: The present research examines special sports events as a tool for para-diplomacy in the border regions of Kermanshah province.Methodology: The current research adopts a qualitative approach and falls under the category of grounded theory. The data collection tools utilized in this study involve ...
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Objective: The present research examines special sports events as a tool for para-diplomacy in the border regions of Kermanshah province.Methodology: The current research adopts a qualitative approach and falls under the category of grounded theory. The data collection tools utilized in this study involve in-depth and semi-structured interviews with key stakeholders of special events, diplomacy, and para-diplomacy in the province. The interviews continued until theoretical saturation was achieved. Additionally, a snowball sampling method was employed to select interviewees, and the data obtained from 14 interviews were coded and analyzed using the grounded theory approach.Results: A total of 751 initial codes were extracted from the interview analysis. After extracting similar codes and eliminating duplicates, 259 open initial codes were identified. Conclusion: Paradiplomacy, as a novel approach, and special sports events, as instruments, should be utilized by governmental figures to advance this approach, leveraging all available capacities in border provinces for national development, regional interaction improvement, and shaping public opinion. In this regard, subnational units in Kermanshah province can contribute to the country's goals and development by leveraging the existing potential for organizing sports events, provided certain authorities are delegated to them through contracts and commitments to national interests.
