Localizing Job Quality Indicators in Iran: A Delphi-Based Approach within the Country's Socio-Economic Context

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

Department of Public Administration, Faculty of Humanities, Sari Branch, Islamic Azad University, Sari, Mazandaran, Iran

Abstract
The article was conducted to develop and rank a localized framework of job quality indicators within the Iranian economy, aiming to facilitate the transition from purely quantitative employment policies toward quality-driven governance. Methodologically, this exploratory mixed-methods study was designed in three sequential phases. In the first phase, 100 indicators were extracted through a systematic literature review. Subsequently, utilizing an expert panel via the Delphi method (N=20), these indicators were screened and localized into 31 sub-indicators across 12 key dimensions. Finally, in the survey phase, data collected from 108 key stakeholders in the labor market were analyzed using a highly reliable instrument (Cronbach's alpha = 0.969). The ranking results indicate that, in the shadow of macroeconomic instabilities, survival- and protection-oriented indicators-such as employees' physical and mental health (importance score = 4.79) alongside income and financial compensation (importance score = 4.78)-top the priorities of the workforce. Conversely, paired means comparison tests and policy gap analysis revealed that the most profound legislative voids in Iran lie in the realm of soft rights and modern developmental standards, such as innovation and creativity (gap = -2.02) and work-life balance (gap = -1.74). This structural asymmetry suggests that existing labor laws require foundational legislation to effectively manage psychosocial risks and protect workers in the modern economy.


Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript
Available Online from 12 September 2026

  • Receive Date 25 July 2026
  • Revise Date 26 August 2026
  • Accept Date 08 September 2026