Journal of Intelligent Strategic Management

Journal of Intelligent Strategic Management

Design and Validation of a Mission-Oriented Performance Management Model: A Mixed Approach Based on Meta-Synthesis and Confirmatory Factor Analysis

Document Type : Original Article

Authors
Roya Mosayebnejad 1
Karamollah Daneshfard 1
Nazanin Pilevari 2
1 Department of Management and Economics, SR.C.,Islamic Azad University,Tehran, Iran.
2 Department of Industrial Management WT.C., Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran.
10.87453/bumara.2026.373601.3273
Abstract
Background and Objective:The aim of this study was to design and validate a mission-oriented performance management model in the context of the National Iranian Oil Company using a mixed-method approach (qualitative–quantitative).
Methodology:This research is applied in terms of purpose and falls within the category of mixed-method studies (qualitative–quantitative) in nature. In the qualitative phase, in order to extract the dimensions, components, and indicators of the model, the meta-synthesis method and the seven-step framework of Sandelowski and Barroso (2007) were used. For this purpose, relevant studies from the time period 2018 to 2024 were systematically reviewed. In the quantitative phase, to validate the extracted model, data were collected from 199 experts in related fields using a researcher-made 51-item questionnaire. The proposed model was tested using confirmatory factor analysis within the framework of structural equation modeling.
Findings:The analysis and synthesis of the qualitative findings of the selected studies identified 237 initial codes, which were categorized into 17 components and 51 indicators, organized into four main dimensions: behavioral, developmental, procedural, and outcome-based. The quantitative results showed that the four-dimensional structure of the model had a good fit, and the 17 components and 51 indicators were empirically confirmed.
Discussion and Conclusion:The results of the study indicate that mission-oriented performance management requires simultaneous attention to behavioral, developmental, procedural, and outcome-based dimensions.

Highlights

Ahmadifard, H., Karimi, A., & Hosseini, S. (2013). Application of Fuzzy Delphi Method in Decision Making Under Uncertainty. Journal of Industrial Engineering, 10(2), 45–56. [In Persian]

Arina, D., & Sondakh, E. (2023). EFQM-based performance management in mission-oriented organizations. International Journal of Public Sector Performance, 10(1), 33–50.

Azar, A., & Faraji, R. (2013). Fuzzy Delphi Technique: Steps and Applications in Management Research. International Journal of Management Studies, 20(1), 33–50. [In Persian]

Bahrol-Uloom, H., Ghasemi, R., & Moradi, S. (1404). Integrating DEA and Malquist Index for Mission-Oriented Performance Evaluation in Logistics Companies.Journal of Industrial Engineering and Management, 12(3), 101–120. [In Persian]

Bennis, W. (2004). The seven ages of the leader. Harvard Business Review, 82(1), 46–53.

Bugge, M., & Siddiq, F. (2021). Empowering professionalism in mission-oriented innovation. Science and Public Policy, 48(3), 423–437. https://doi.org/10.1093/scipol/scab020

Cantarelli, P. (Ed.). (2023). Management and performance in mission-driven organizations. Palgrave Macmillan. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-031-40490-0

Cao Thi Thu Anh, P. T., Thuy Hanh, P., & Hai Minh, P. (2025). Mission-oriented innovation policy: A review of theoretical foundations, international experiences and policy implications. Journal of Science and Technology Policies and Management, 14(2), 60–73. https://doi.org/10.1108/JSTPM-03-2025-0012

Chen, H. C., Chen, I. H., & Ng, C. T. S. (2024). Calling and job involvement: The role of prosocial motivation in the performance of mission-driven organizations. The Journal of General Psychology, 1–29. https://doi.org/10.1080/00221309.2024.2349763

Danaeifard, H., Alvani, M., & Azar, A. (2006). Research Methodology in Management: A Comprehensive Approach. Tehran: Saffar Publications.[In Persian]

Dehbanzadeh, S.M. (2023). Designing a Performance Management Model for the National Iranian Oil Company. Journal of Human Resource Management, 15(2), 123–145. [In Persian]  https: /  / doi.org / 10.1002 / hrm.23356

Delavar, A. (2006). Theoretical and Practical Foundations of Research in the Humanities. Tehran: Roshd Publications. [In Persian]

Ebrahimi, F., Ahmadi, S., & Rezaei, M. (2025). Designing a human resource performance management excellence model in the Martyrs Foundation and Veterans Affairs Organization. Pazhuheshnameh‑ye Modiriat‑e Dolati [Public Management Research Journal].

Ebrahimi, H., Ahmadi, M., & Rezaei, F. (2025). An excellence model for human resource performance management in the Martyrs Foundation and Veterans Affairs Organization. Iranian Journal of Management Studies, 17(2), 45–67.

Eynaki Maleki, H., Rezaei, N., & Karimi, M. (2023). Designing a corporate governance model with a managerial performance evaluation approach in the Water and Wastewater Company. Journal of Governance and Organizational Development.

Fernández González, R., Puime Guillén, F., & Vila Biglieri, J. E. (2023). Environmental strategy and the petroleum industry: A sustainability balanced scorecard approach. Journal of Petroleum Exploration and Production Technology, 13, 763–774. https://doi.org/10.1007/s13202-022-01543-9

Gholami, B., Khalijian, S., Daim, T. U., & Mohammadipirlar, A. (2021).Measuring Knowledge Management Performance Based on World-Class Competitive Advantages for Developing Strategic Projects: A Case Study of the Iranian Oil Industry. Technology in Society, 67, 101691. [In Persian]  https: /  / doi.org / 10.1016 / j.techsoc.2021.101691

Giné, X., Mansuri, G., & Shrestha, S. A. (2022). Mission and the bottom line: Performance incentives in a multigoal organization. The Review of Economics and Statistics, 104(4), 748–763. https://doi.org/10.1162/rest_a_01001

Habibi, A., Sarafarazi, A., & Izadiar, S. (2014). Delphi Technique: A Theoretical Framework in Qualitative Research. International Journal of Engineering and Sciences, 4(3), 13–8. [In Persian]

Mahmoud, M. M. H., & Othman, R. (2023). Performance management system in developing countries: A case study in Jordan. Journal of Public Affairs, 23(4), e2864. https://doi.org/10.1002/pa.2864

Mas-Machuca, M., Akhmedova, A., & Marimon, F. (2024). The social mission works: Internalizing the mission to achieve organizational performance in social enterprises. Review of Managerial Science, 18(4), 965–989. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11846-024-00605-7

Mazzucato, M. (2018). Mission-oriented innovation policies: Challenges and opportunities. Industrial and Corporate Change, 27(5), 803–815. https://doi.org/10.1093/icc/dty034

Mazzucato, M. (2024). Mission-oriented policies for innovation and their impact on organizational performance. Strategic Innovation Review, 6(2), 112–128. https://doi.org/10.1111/ijbm.12635

Melaletsa, L., Bussin, M., & Barkhuizen, N. (2023). Mission-aligned EFQM model for public organizations. Journal of Organizational Excellence, 42(1), 12–29.

Melander, L., Arvidsson, A., & Rehme, J. (2018). Selecting experts for Delphi studies: Introducing a systematic approach. International Journal of Social Research Methodology, 21(5), 487–499. https://doi.org/10.1080/13645579.2018.1465442

Mendonça, H. (2018). Innovation policies and their role in mission-driven organizational performance. Journal of International Business & Management, 34(5), 210–225. https://doi.org/10.1108/JOEPP-04-2018-0135

Norouzi, A., Valikhani, M., & Daneshfard, S. (2023). The Effect of Meritocracy and Employee Development on Mission-Oriented Performance. International Journal of Business and Industrial Marketing, 16,(2) 78–92. [In Persian] https: /  / doi.org / 10.1108 / JBIM 10 2022 0163

OECD. (2023). Bridging the gap between development goals and organizational performance: Mission-oriented evaluation in developing countries. Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development. https://doi.org/10.1787/9789264317071-en

Penna, C., & Mazzucato, M. (2025). Mission-oriented innovation and the organizational impact of effective performance management. Journal of Business Strategy & Innovation, 8(3), 245–259. https://doi.org/10.1108/IJM-12-2020-0480

Penna, C., Mazzucato, M., & Santos, R. (2025). Strategic capabilities for mission-oriented performance management: From innovation systems to execution. Journal of Innovation & Management, 29(4), 332–348. https://doi.org/10.1108/JIBS-06-2020-0200

Pfeifer, T., & Helming, M. (2024). Mission assessment model for evaluating organizational performance. Public Management Review, 26(1), 88–105.

Pill, J. (1971). The Delphi method: Substance, context, a critique and an annotated bibliography. Socio-Economic Planning Sciences, 5(4), 57–71. https://doi.org/10.1016/0038-0121(71)90018-2

Sadr-Sadat, M. (2008). Outcome-Based Evaluation in Mission-Oriented Organizations. Public Administration Review, 58(4), 765–780. [In Persian]  https: /  / doi.org / 10.1108 / 01409170810899118

Safdari-Ranjabr, M., & Fatemi, M. (2022). Towards a Balanced Framework for Evaluating Innovation in Public and Mission-Oriented Organizations: Evidence from Defense Industries. Innovation: European Journal of Social Science Research, 1–26[In Persian].

Santos, R., & Mazzucato, M. (2025). Innovation and policy design for mission-oriented performance management. Journal of Business Management, 37(2), 88–101. https://doi.org/10.1108/JBM-05-2020-0195

Shahmehr, F., Safari, N., Jamshidi, M. J., & Yaghoobi, N.-M. (2014). Impact of performance management on mission alignment in hospitals. Health Services Management Research, 27(2), 70–77. https://doi.org/10.1177/0951484814527452

Shahmehr, F., Safari, N., Jamshidi, M.J., & Yaghoubi, N. M. (2014). The Effect of Performance Management on Mission Alignment in Hospitals. Health Services Management Research, 27, 70–77. [In Persian]

Sheikh, M. (2023). Human Resource Performance Management with a Resistance Economy Approach in Iranian Organizations. Journal of Human Resource Development Studies, 14(1), 55–72. [In Persian]

Sikora, T., & Arna, M. (2022). Mission-driven performance management and organizational sustainability. Journal of Organizational Behavior, 43(5), 678–695. https://doi.org/10.1002/job.2721

Tavakoli, M., & Safavi, A. (2022). Current challenges in performance evaluation systems in Iran’s oil sector. Journal of Petroleum Management, 11(1), 25–40.

Tok, E. (2023). Mission-oriented innovation policy for sustainable development: A systematic literature review. Sustainability, 15(17), 13101. https://doi.org/10.3390/su151713101

u, H., Wang, R., & Huang, Z. (2022). Application of data mining in performance management of public hospitals. Mobile Information Systems, 2022, 1–12. https://doi.org/10.1155/2022/9834721

Vosloo, O. A. L., Archer, A. A., & Smit, E. V. D. M. (2018). The link between the quality of mission statements and corporate financial performance: An empirical investigation. South African Journal of Business Management, 24(2), a864. https://doi.org/10.4102/sajbm.v24i2.864

Wong, K., Li, H., & Chan, F. (2016). Fuzzy Delphi method: Applications in qualitative research and decision-making. Expert Systems with Applications, 64, 122–134. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.eswa.2016.07.028

Yan, N., & Zhao, X. (2020). A scheme of performance management designed for oil companies’ drilling project. Natural Gas Technology and Economy, 14(4), 56–61. https://doi.org/10.3969/j.issn.2095-1132.2020.04.011

Zhang, Y., Sun, J., & Zhang, J. (2023). Cultivating organizational performance through the performance measurement systems: Role of psychological empowerment and creativity. Frontiers in Psychology, 14, 1116617. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2023.1116617

Zheng, Y., Li, Q., & Wang, S. (2023). Competency development and organizational learning in mission-oriented enterprises. International Journal of Human Resource Management, 34(6), 1201–1220. https://doi.org/10.1080/09585192.2022.2063121

Keywords
Performance Management
Mission Orientation
Meta-Synthesis
Confirmatory Factor Analysis
Structural Equation Modeling

Subjects

Ahmadifard, H., Karimi, A., & Hosseini, S. (2013). Application of Fuzzy Delphi Method in Decision Making Under Uncertainty. Journal of Industrial Engineering, 10(2), 45–56. [In Persian]
Arina, D., & Sondakh, E. (2023). EFQM-based performance management in mission-oriented organizations. International Journal of Public Sector Performance, 10(1), 33–50.
Azar, A., & Faraji, R. (2013). Fuzzy Delphi Technique: Steps and Applications in Management Research. International Journal of Management Studies, 20(1), 33–50. [In Persian]
Bahrol-Uloom, H., Ghasemi, R., & Moradi, S. (1404). Integrating DEA and Malquist Index for Mission-Oriented Performance Evaluation in Logistics Companies.Journal of Industrial Engineering and Management, 12(3), 101–120. [In Persian]
Bennis, W. (2004). The seven ages of the leader. Harvard Business Review, 82(1), 46–53.
Bugge, M., & Siddiq, F. (2021). Empowering professionalism in mission-oriented innovation. Science and Public Policy, 48(3), 423–437. https://doi.org/10.1093/scipol/scab020
Cantarelli, P. (Ed.). (2023). Management and performance in mission-driven organizations. Palgrave Macmillan. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-031-40490-0
Cao Thi Thu Anh, P. T., Thuy Hanh, P., & Hai Minh, P. (2025). Mission-oriented innovation policy: A review of theoretical foundations, international experiences and policy implications. Journal of Science and Technology Policies and Management, 14(2), 60–73. https://doi.org/10.1108/JSTPM-03-2025-0012
Chen, H. C., Chen, I. H., & Ng, C. T. S. (2024). Calling and job involvement: The role of prosocial motivation in the performance of mission-driven organizations. The Journal of General Psychology, 1–29. https://doi.org/10.1080/00221309.2024.2349763
Danaeifard, H., Alvani, M., & Azar, A. (2006). Research Methodology in Management: A Comprehensive Approach. Tehran: Saffar Publications.[In Persian]
Dehbanzadeh, S.M. (2023). Designing a Performance Management Model for the National Iranian Oil Company. Journal of Human Resource Management, 15(2), 123–145. [In Persian]  https: /  / doi.org / 10.1002 / hrm.23356
Delavar, A. (2006). Theoretical and Practical Foundations of Research in the Humanities. Tehran: Roshd Publications. [In Persian]
Ebrahimi, F., Ahmadi, S., & Rezaei, M. (2025). Designing a human resource performance management excellence model in the Martyrs Foundation and Veterans Affairs Organization. Pazhuheshnameh‑ye Modiriat‑e Dolati [Public Management Research Journal].
Ebrahimi, H., Ahmadi, M., & Rezaei, F. (2025). An excellence model for human resource performance management in the Martyrs Foundation and Veterans Affairs Organization. Iranian Journal of Management Studies, 17(2), 45–67.
Eynaki Maleki, H., Rezaei, N., & Karimi, M. (2023). Designing a corporate governance model with a managerial performance evaluation approach in the Water and Wastewater Company. Journal of Governance and Organizational Development.
Fernández González, R., Puime Guillén, F., & Vila Biglieri, J. E. (2023). Environmental strategy and the petroleum industry: A sustainability balanced scorecard approach. Journal of Petroleum Exploration and Production Technology, 13, 763–774. https://doi.org/10.1007/s13202-022-01543-9
Gholami, B., Khalijian, S., Daim, T. U., & Mohammadipirlar, A. (2021).Measuring Knowledge Management Performance Based on World-Class Competitive Advantages for Developing Strategic Projects: A Case Study of the Iranian Oil Industry. Technology in Society, 67, 101691. [In Persian]  https: /  / doi.org / 10.1016 / j.techsoc.2021.101691
Giné, X., Mansuri, G., & Shrestha, S. A. (2022). Mission and the bottom line: Performance incentives in a multigoal organization. The Review of Economics and Statistics, 104(4), 748–763. https://doi.org/10.1162/rest_a_01001
Habibi, A., Sarafarazi, A., & Izadiar, S. (2014). Delphi Technique: A Theoretical Framework in Qualitative Research. International Journal of Engineering and Sciences, 4(3), 13–8. [In Persian]
Mahmoud, M. M. H., & Othman, R. (2023). Performance management system in developing countries: A case study in Jordan. Journal of Public Affairs, 23(4), e2864. https://doi.org/10.1002/pa.2864
Mas-Machuca, M., Akhmedova, A., & Marimon, F. (2024). The social mission works: Internalizing the mission to achieve organizational performance in social enterprises. Review of Managerial Science, 18(4), 965–989. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11846-024-00605-7
Mazzucato, M. (2018). Mission-oriented innovation policies: Challenges and opportunities. Industrial and Corporate Change, 27(5), 803–815. https://doi.org/10.1093/icc/dty034
Mazzucato, M. (2024). Mission-oriented policies for innovation and their impact on organizational performance. Strategic Innovation Review, 6(2), 112–128. https://doi.org/10.1111/ijbm.12635
Melaletsa, L., Bussin, M., & Barkhuizen, N. (2023). Mission-aligned EFQM model for public organizations. Journal of Organizational Excellence, 42(1), 12–29.
Melander, L., Arvidsson, A., & Rehme, J. (2018). Selecting experts for Delphi studies: Introducing a systematic approach. International Journal of Social Research Methodology, 21(5), 487–499. https://doi.org/10.1080/13645579.2018.1465442
Mendonça, H. (2018). Innovation policies and their role in mission-driven organizational performance. Journal of International Business & Management, 34(5), 210–225. https://doi.org/10.1108/JOEPP-04-2018-0135
Norouzi, A., Valikhani, M., & Daneshfard, S. (2023). The Effect of Meritocracy and Employee Development on Mission-Oriented Performance. International Journal of Business and Industrial Marketing, 16,(2) 78–92. [In Persian] https: /  / doi.org / 10.1108 / JBIM 10 2022 0163
OECD. (2023). Bridging the gap between development goals and organizational performance: Mission-oriented evaluation in developing countries. Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development. https://doi.org/10.1787/9789264317071-en
Penna, C., & Mazzucato, M. (2025). Mission-oriented innovation and the organizational impact of effective performance management. Journal of Business Strategy & Innovation, 8(3), 245–259. https://doi.org/10.1108/IJM-12-2020-0480
Penna, C., Mazzucato, M., & Santos, R. (2025). Strategic capabilities for mission-oriented performance management: From innovation systems to execution. Journal of Innovation & Management, 29(4), 332–348. https://doi.org/10.1108/JIBS-06-2020-0200
Pfeifer, T., & Helming, M. (2024). Mission assessment model for evaluating organizational performance. Public Management Review, 26(1), 88–105.
Pill, J. (1971). The Delphi method: Substance, context, a critique and an annotated bibliography. Socio-Economic Planning Sciences, 5(4), 57–71. https://doi.org/10.1016/0038-0121(71)90018-2
Sadr-Sadat, M. (2008). Outcome-Based Evaluation in Mission-Oriented Organizations. Public Administration Review, 58(4), 765–780. [In Persian]  https: /  / doi.org / 10.1108 / 01409170810899118
Safdari-Ranjabr, M., & Fatemi, M. (2022). Towards a Balanced Framework for Evaluating Innovation in Public and Mission-Oriented Organizations: Evidence from Defense Industries. Innovation: European Journal of Social Science Research, 1–26[In Persian].
Santos, R., & Mazzucato, M. (2025). Innovation and policy design for mission-oriented performance management. Journal of Business Management, 37(2), 88–101. https://doi.org/10.1108/JBM-05-2020-0195
Shahmehr, F., Safari, N., Jamshidi, M. J., & Yaghoobi, N.-M. (2014). Impact of performance management on mission alignment in hospitals. Health Services Management Research, 27(2), 70–77. https://doi.org/10.1177/0951484814527452
Shahmehr, F., Safari, N., Jamshidi, M.J., & Yaghoubi, N. M. (2014). The Effect of Performance Management on Mission Alignment in Hospitals. Health Services Management Research, 27, 70–77. [In Persian]
Sheikh, M. (2023). Human Resource Performance Management with a Resistance Economy Approach in Iranian Organizations. Journal of Human Resource Development Studies, 14(1), 55–72. [In Persian]
Sikora, T., & Arna, M. (2022). Mission-driven performance management and organizational sustainability. Journal of Organizational Behavior, 43(5), 678–695. https://doi.org/10.1002/job.2721
Tavakoli, M., & Safavi, A. (2022). Current challenges in performance evaluation systems in Iran’s oil sector. Journal of Petroleum Management, 11(1), 25–40.
Tok, E. (2023). Mission-oriented innovation policy for sustainable development: A systematic literature review. Sustainability, 15(17), 13101. https://doi.org/10.3390/su151713101
u, H., Wang, R., & Huang, Z. (2022). Application of data mining in performance management of public hospitals. Mobile Information Systems, 2022, 1–12. https://doi.org/10.1155/2022/9834721
Vosloo, O. A. L., Archer, A. A., & Smit, E. V. D. M. (2018). The link between the quality of mission statements and corporate financial performance: An empirical investigation. South African Journal of Business Management, 24(2), a864. https://doi.org/10.4102/sajbm.v24i2.864
Wong, K., Li, H., & Chan, F. (2016). Fuzzy Delphi method: Applications in qualitative research and decision-making. Expert Systems with Applications, 64, 122–134. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.eswa.2016.07.028
Yan, N., & Zhao, X. (2020). A scheme of performance management designed for oil companies’ drilling project. Natural Gas Technology and Economy, 14(4), 56–61. https://doi.org/10.3969/j.issn.2095-1132.2020.04.011
Zhang, Y., Sun, J., & Zhang, J. (2023). Cultivating organizational performance through the performance measurement systems: Role of psychological empowerment and creativity. Frontiers in Psychology, 14, 1116617. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2023.1116617
Zheng, Y., Li, Q., & Wang, S. (2023). Competency development and organizational learning in mission-oriented enterprises. International Journal of Human Resource Management, 34(6), 1201–1220. https://doi.org/10.1080/09585192.2022.2063121