Identifying and Analyzing Key Factors Affecting the Development of Incubation and Technology Centers in Free Zones: A Systematic Review Using Thematic Analysis

Abstract

This study aimed to identify, categorize, and conceptually organize the key factors affecting the development of incubation and technology centers in Iran’s free zones and to propose an integrated framework for explaining these factors. This study employed a systematic literature review combined with thematic analysis and was conducted in accordance with the PRISMA 2020 guidelines. Systematic searches were performed in Scopus, Web of Science, SID, Magiran, Google Scholar, Irandoc, and relevant official reports. A total of 328 records were initially identified; after removing 37 duplicates, 291 records underwent title and abstract screening. Following two-stage screening, full-text assessment, and methodological quality appraisal using CASP and adapted quality criteria, 61 eligible studies were included in the final synthesis. Study selection and appraisal were independently conducted by two researchers. Cohen’s kappa coefficients for title/abstract screening, full-text screening, and quality assessment were 0.82, 0.79, and 0.87, respectively. Data were analyzed using Braun and Clarke’s six-phase thematic analysis approach. Approximately 480 initial codes were condensed into 27 subcategories, 12 subthemes, and four overarching themes. The process layer emerged as the most frequently supported dimension, identified in 52 studies (85.2%), encompassing professional management, the university–industry–government Triple Helix model, knowledge transfer, and digital infrastructure. The input layer, comprising policymaking, institutional frameworks, and foreign direct investment, was supported by 48 studies (78.7%). The output layer, including technology entrepreneurship, intelligence industry, and competitive clusters, was identified in 45 studies (73.8%). The outcome layer, encompassing sustainable economic growth, value creation, and free-zone resilience, was supported by 39 studies (63.9%). These findings resulted in a proposed four-layer conceptual framework consisting of inputs, processes, outputs, and outcomes. The development of incubation and technology centers in Iran’s free zones requires a systemic approach integrating institutional and policy stability, professional management, effective university–industry–government collaboration, knowledge transfer, digital infrastructure, and technology entrepreneurship. The proposed four-layer framework provides a useful foundation for policymaking and future empirical research, although the causal relationships among its components require quantitative validation.