Examining the Role of Content Strategies in Formulating Digital Media Policies: An Approach Based on Soft Systems Methodology

Subject Areas : Decision Analysis

Sara Behzadi ¹ , Ali Rajabzadeh Qatari ² , Hassan Soltani ^{3 *} , Mohsen Jajarmizadeh ⁴ , Saeed Razeghi ⁵

1 - Department of Management,Shiraz Branch, Islamic Azad Univercity, Shiraz, Iran
2 - Prof. Faculty of Management Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran. Iran..
3 - Associate Prof. Faculty of Department of Management, Shiraz Branch, Islamic Azad University, Shiraz, Iran
4 - Associate Prof. Faculty of Department of Management, Payam e Noor University, Tehran, Iran.
5 - Department Economics and Management, Islamic Azad University of Shiraz, Fars, Iran

Received: 2025-01-11 Accepted : 2025-03-14 Published : 2025-09-25

Keywords: Media, digital media, media policy, soft systems methodology, cognitive mapping,

Abstract :

In the contemporary day, where digital technologies profoundly impact all facets of human existence, effective policymaking in digital media is crucial. Considering the substantial influence of these media on public opinion, political and social communications, as well as their profound effects on cultural and economic aspects of societies, the imperative for a meticulous and exhaustive assessment of the policies implemented in this area is more evident. Given the intricate and multifaceted characteristics of digital media policymaking, the application of soft operational research methodologies can provide more thorough and agreeable outcomes. This research investigates the methodologies of soft systems and cognitive mapping as analytical instruments for assessing digital media policymaking. This methodology enables the identification of current concerns and issues, while also assessing capacities and potential for enhancement, thereby offering a thorough and pragmatic framework for effective policymaking in this domain. The data necessary for constructing the conceptual model of this research were obtained by examining prior studies and conducting comprehensive interviews with experts and specialists in digital media. In analyzing the present condition of the media and communication sector, a significant observation, akin to various social and cultural domains, is the occurrence of cultural lag, wherein the rapid progression of communication technologies has surpassed the capacity of society and policymakers to adjust and formulate suitable content strategies. This research indicates that modifications in the "content" domain are crucial for effective policymaking in digital media.