Document Type : Research Article (Original Article)
Authors
1
PhD in Technology Management, Department of Management and Accounting, Allameh Tabataba’i University, Tehran, Iran
2
Associate Professor at the Department of Management and Accounting, University of Tehran (College of Farabi)
3
Associate Professor, Institute for Fundamental Science and Technology Studies, Shahid Beheshti University, Tehran, Iran
Abstract
While the mining industry significantly contributes to countries' economic development, it also adversely affects human health and the environment. However, digital technologies such as artificial intelligence, the Internet of Things, robotics, and drones have demonstrated considerable potential to mitigate these challenges through mine digitalization. This study aims to identify the socio-technical challenges and obstacles in transitioning to digitalized mines in Iran and to propose policy solutions to address these challenges. Using the Multi-Level Perspective framework, this research develops a theoretical model to analyze factors influencing the socio-technical transition toward mine digitalization. Through expert opinions in focus groups and thematic analysis, transition challenges were identified at three levels—landscape, socio-technical regime, and niche—with corresponding policy solutions proposed for each level. At the landscape level, two main challenges were identified: the lack of economic and productivity imperatives and the absence of environmental and human requirements. To address these, programs such as targeted financial facilities and energy subsidies were proposed. At the socio-technical regime level, challenges included policy and legal barriers, insufficient management support for change, socio-cultural challenges, and technological and infrastructural shortcomings. Twelve solutions were proposed, such as establishing a single window for technology licensing, developing a digital transformation center, implementing training programs for managers and staff, and supporting pilot projects in digitalization. At the niche level, a weak innovation ecosystem and difficulties in the mining sector innovation were identified. Solutions included institutional and infrastructural development (through innovation centers and technology consortia) and facilitating collaboration and knowledge transfer (by supporting university-industry joint projects).
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