Development of an Optimal Research Needs Analysis Model for Executive Agencies in Lorestan Province in the Field of Management and Planning

Various methods for research needs assessment have been proposed, and selecting the appropriate model can be a significant issue. Therefore, the aim of the current research was to develop an optimal model for research needs assessment in the executive agencies of Lorestan Province. This applied research was conducted with an exploratory nature and a mixed approach. The statistical population included documents and records available in the executive agencies of Lorestan Province, national and international experiences in the field of research needs assessment models, and experts knowledgeable about the subject matter. The sampling method was purposive in the document and resource section and purposive in the interview and validation section. The research tool in the qualitative section was fishbone diagramming and interviewing. The quantitative section used a researcher-made questionnaire with 24 items, and Content Validity Ratio (CVR) was used to examine content validity. The results ultimately led to the design of a research needs assessment model that can be utilized in executive agencies. The model consists of two sections: identification of research needs, including six stages, and prioritization of research needs, including five stages. Attention to the scientific structure in research needs assessment and moving beyond the current perspective can be enlightening. There are some missing links that have been addressed in the mentioned stages, and attention to them can lead to better results.