Identification of key drivers influencing the University Innovation District using a futures studies approach (Case study: Islamic Azad University of Isfahan; Khorasgan Branch)

Document Type : Original Research Articles

Authors

1 Master's student, Department of Urban Planning and Design, University of Arts and Architecture, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran.

2 Associate Professor, Department of Urban Planning and Design, University of Arts and Architecture, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran

3 PhD student, Department of Urban Planning and Design, University of Art and Architecture, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran.

Abstract

The university innovation district, as a vital hub for the convergence of ideas and resources, can contribute to local and national communities. Accordingly, the aim of the present research is scenario planning for the university innovation district at Islamic Azad University of Isfahan, Khorasgan Branch, with a futures studies approach. This research is applied in terms of purpose and descriptive-analytical in nature. Data collection is based on library and field methods. For data analysis, environmental scanning and MICMAC software , ScenarioWizard, and Expert Choice were used. The findings from environmental scanning indicate that 30 factors influence innovation at Islamic Azad University of Isfahan, among which 15 factors in 4 dimensions are identified as key factors in the university’s innovation. Then, possible scenarios for each key factor were designed and analyzed using ScenarioWizard software, resulting in two strong and credible scenarios. Subsequently, the main elements of the university innovation district—including drivers of high uncertainty and importance, key predetermined factors, scenarios, and policies—were analyzed and explained. The research findings show that realizing the university innovation district at Islamic Azad University of Isfahan (Khorasgan Branch) requires adopting key policies that integrally provide the necessary platform for innovation development. One of these policies is multilateral cooperation among the university, government, and industry, which acts as the main factor of the innovation district. This cooperation not only enables synergy among the three key sectors of society but also accelerates the commercialization process of new ideas and technologies. Moreover, implementing joint projects between the university and industry serves as a practical tool to link academic research with real market needs. By effectively implementing these policies, Islamic Azad University of Isfahan will be able to create a conducive environment for innovation growth that not only supports scientific development but also positively impacts the region’s economic growth.

Keywords

References

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Geography and Regional Future Studies
Volume 3, Issue 3 - Serial Number 11
Autumn
December 2025
Pages 95-113

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