Document Type : Original Article
Authors
1 Assistant Professor, Department of Public Administration, Faculty of Management, Islamic Azad University, Science and Research Branch, Tehran, Iran.
2 Assistant Professor, Department of Public Administration, Faculty of Management, University of Science and Research, Tehran, Iran.
Abstract
Iran, like many developing countries, is experiencing a rapid population aging trend that brings multiple economic, social, and managerial consequences. The present study was conducted with the aim of developing a model for employing the silver workforce in public service management in Iran using a grounded theory approach. In terms of purpose, this study was applied-developmental and qualitative in nature. To develop the final model, the systematic grounded theory approach of Strauss and Corbin was employed. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews with 15 management experts and managers of governmental organizations until theoretical saturation was reached and analyzed using ATLAS.ti software. The results led to the identification of 5 main categories, 26 axial categories, and 176 initial codes. The findings indicated that causal conditions included population aging, accumulation of experience, shortage of skilled workforce, economic pressure on retirees, and knowledge transfer. Contextual conditions included employment regulations, organizational culture, e-government, welfare policies, and generational differences, while intervening conditions included structural flexibility, health status, motivation, digital training, and acceptance by the younger generation. Proposed strategies included flexible employment, specialized consulting, intergenerational mentoring, digital retraining, experience banks, and reform of employment regulations. The findings showed that utilizing the silver workforce can contribute to preserving knowledge capital, improving service quality, reducing generational gaps, and enhancing organizational productivity.
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