Journal of Iranian Public Administration Studies

Journal of Iranian Public Administration Studies

A Systematic Review of Published Studies on the Competencies of Public Administrators in Iran

Document Type : Original Article

Authors
1 PhD student in Public Administration, Faculty of Management and Accounting, Farabi College, University of Tehran, Qom, Iran.
2 Professor, Department of Public Administration, Faculty of Management and Accounting, Farabi College, University of Tehran, Qom, Iran.
3 Assistant Professor, Department of Public Administration, Faculty of Management and Accounting, Farabi College, University of Tehran, Qom, Iran.
10.22034/jipas.2026.545764.1853
Abstract
Background and Purpose In the modern era, the competencies of public administrators are recognized as key factors in the success of administrative systems and national development. In Iran, due to managerial challenges and the need to enhance public sector performance, identifying and analyzing managerial competencies is essential. This study aims to systematically review research on the competencies of Iranian public administrators, classify findings, identify research gaps, and propose strategies for competency development.



Methodology Using the PRISMA framework, this study conducted a Systematic Review of articles, theses, and reports published between 2001 and 2023. Data were collected from domestic databases (SID, Magiran, Noormags, Civilica) and international sources (Scopus, Web of Science, Google Scholar). After screening, 64 studies were selected for qualitative content analysis using thematic coding.



Findings Based on thematic analysis and coding of the identified articles, 10 dimensions and 84 indicators of competency factors for public administrators in Iran were identified. The key dimensions include Leadership and Strategic Management, Human Resource Management Capability, Professional Ethics and Social Responsibility, Organizational Innovation and Creativity, Effective Communication and Interaction, Decision-Making and Problem-Solving, Performance Management and Evaluation, Time Management and Prioritization, Crisis Management and Resilience, and Optimization of Managerial Processes.



Conclusion The findings show that successful public administrators in Iran require a combination of technical, behavioral, and ethical competencies. These dimensions support leadership in dynamic environments and provide a framework for managerial development, selection, and evaluation. Future studies should explore the relationships among these dimensions and their impact on organizational performance.
Keywords

  • Receive Date 07 September 2025
  • Revise Date 06 June 2026
  • Accept Date 08 June 2026