Sports management, marketing
tarifeh payami; jafar barghi; Mohammadrahim najafzade; habib mohammadpour
Abstract
Interpretive Structural Modeling of Branding in Iran's Premier Football League
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to develop an interpretive structural model for branding in Iran's Premier Football League. This research is applied in terms of purpose and mixed-method (qualitative-quantitative) ...
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Interpretive Structural Modeling of Branding in Iran's Premier Football League
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to develop an interpretive structural model for branding in Iran's Premier Football League. This research is applied in terms of purpose and mixed-method (qualitative-quantitative) in nature. In the qualitative phase, the fuzzy Delphi method was used, and in the quantitative phase, interpretive structural modeling (ISM) was applied. Participants included sports managers and experts, managers of Iran's Premier Football League organization, and managers of sports clubs, with 14 individuals purposefully selected based on specific criteria. Data collection tools included a Delphi questionnaire and a paired comparison matrix. The validity of the tools was confirmed through face validity, and their reliability was ensured using Cohen's Kappa coefficient. Data analysis was conducted using the two-stage fuzzy Delphi method and interpretive structural modeling. The findings revealed that out of 47 identified factors, 16 were deemed more significant and were categorized into six levels. At the highest level, positive fan experience; at the intermediate levels, factors such as the presence of quality players and coaches, effective interaction with fans, development of fan culture, understanding the needs and expectations of stakeholders, integrated marketing communications, use of digital platforms, a distinct and attractive visual identity, and appropriate market positioning; and at the lowest level, factors such as management stability, commitment and support of senior managers, alignment of club strategies, definition of the league's brand core values, actual privatization of clubs, financial transparency, and attracting foreign investment were identified. These results demonstrate that branding Iran's Premier Football League is a multidimensional phenomenon that requires addressing the interplay of various factors at different levels for effective management. Therefore, this study highlights the importance of developing strategies to brand Iran's Premier Football League by paying attention to and focusing on lower-level factors.
Keywords: League Advancement, Branding, Fan Experience, Football, Interpretive Structural Modeling (ISM).
