Identifying and Selecting Appropriate Strategies for Integrating Green Management into the Structure of Razi University: A Mixed Sequential Exploratory Study

The purpose of this study was to identify and select appropriate strategies for integrating green management (GM) activities in to the structure of Razi University using a mixed sequential exploratory method. Using critical case sampling method, 32 individuals were selected as statistical sample in qualitative phase of the research. The main technique in this phase was three-level coding process (open, axial, and selective coding) alongside “Content Validity Ratio” for refining identified codes. The final output of this section was to identify the most important strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats ahead of the university to integrate GM in its structure. In the quantitative phase, the comprehensive framework of strategy development was used. A total of 250 staff and faculty members were selected using Cochran's formula and random stratified sampling method as a statistical sample in the quantitative phase (N = 965). The data collection tool was a researcher-made questionnaire (extracted from qualitative phase) which its validity and reliability were confirmed using “Content Validity Ratio” (CVR≥ 0.54) and “Cronbach's alpha coefficient” (α≥ 0.84). According to the steps of the “comprehensive strategy development framework”, after determining the strategic position of Razi University, eight strategies were identified for integrated GM in to the university operations. Hierarchical matrix wased used to idntify the best strategies for integrating GM in to Razi university straucturs according to criterions of time and cost, feasibility, compose operations, and educational and research programs. Findings showed that strategies of joining or membership of the university in one of the global green university evaluation systems and technology change are the most sensitive to GM; And by applying them, more tangible results can be achieved in the field of GM development in the university.