Identifying Managers’ Mental Models Toward Implementing the Sharing Economy in the Supply Chain: A Case Study of SMEs in Markazi Province, Iran

Articles in Press

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 Professor, Faculty of Economics, Management and Administrative Sciences, semnan university

2 Professor, Department of Business Administration, Faculty of Economics, Management and Administrative Sciences, Semnan University

3 PhD Student in Marketing, Department of Business Administration, Faculty of Economics, Management and Administrative Sciences, Semnan University.

Abstract

This study investigates the mindset of small industry managers toward embracing and collaborating in the implementation of the collaborative economy as a strategic approach to optimizing supply chains. Employing Q methodology, the research is classified as applied in purpose, exploratory in nature, and designed within a mixed-methods framework (qualitative–quantitative).

In the qualitative phase, a comprehensive literature review was conducted alongside 11 semi-structured interviews with managers of small industries located in Industrial Park No. 1 in the metropolitan area of Arak, selected through snowball sampling. From an initial pool of 124 statements, 36 were validated by experts and chosen as Q-sample items. These items were then presented to 21 managers, who sorted the cards according to the Q-sorting model.

Factor analysis using SPSS version 26 revealed four distinct mental models among the participants:

• Progressive and transformation-oriented

• Cautious and resistant to change

• Realistic and data-driven

• Interactive and network-oriented

Collectively, these models account for 77% of the total variance. The findings suggest that successful adoption and implementation of the collaborative economy in small industries require a thorough understanding of infrastructural challenges, legal risks, and competitive concerns. Addressing these barriers calls for targeted training programs, regulatory reforms, and process simulations.

The results of this research offer valuable insights for policymakers and economic stakeholders aiming to enhance the performance and resilience of small industrial enterprises

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Main Subjects

Journal of International Business Administration

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript
Available Online from 03 December 2025

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History

  • Receive Date: 28 August 2025
  • Revise Date: 24 November 2025
  • Accept Date: 03 December 2025

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