A Comprehensive Value Chain Model for Knowledge-Based Companies Based on the Diagnosis of Challenges: A Case Study of Zanjan Province

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 Assistant Professor Department of Industrial Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University of Zanjan, Zanjan, Iran.

2 Associate Professor, Department of Industrial Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University of Zanjan, Zanjan, Iran.

Abstract

Background and Objectives: This study aimed to design a comprehensive model for the value chain of knowledge-based companies in order to identify their challenges and needs and provide a localized framework to guide their development.
Methods: The research was applied in nature and employed a survey-analytical methodology. The statistical population consisted of managers from 106 knowledge-based companies located in Zanjan province, of which 58 companies were selected through purposive sampling. Data were collected using a researcher-developed questionnaire validated by experts and semi-structured interviews with company managers. Field challenges were first identified and analyzed, and then the findings were integrated with Porter’s value chain framework to develop a conceptual model outlining the growth and maturity path of these companies.
Results: The results indicated that companies face the greatest challenges in marketing and sales; however, the root causes often lie in the early stages of the value chain, such as selecting the field of activity, feasibility assessment of ideas, and product design.
Conclusion: Sales weaknesses were primarily due to low quality, non-competitive pricing, and inadequate after-sales services. Many companies registered officially before being ready to produce a Minimum Viable Product (MVP) and consumed resources in non-essential activities. Furthermore, insufficient financial resource management led to wasted capital and an increase in inactive companies. In conclusion, the proposed comprehensive value chain model provides an integrated framework for managing the development of knowledge-based companies. By clarifying institutional roles, enhancing coordination, and enabling targeted resource allocation, it facilitates informed decision-making at strategic, tactical, and operational levels.

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History

  • Receive Date: 14 August 2025
  • Revise Date: 30 September 2025
  • Accept Date: 15 October 2025
  • Publish Date: 23 October 2025

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