سیدمحمدرضا سرابی

This study presents a comprehensive and in-depth examination of the concept of the

metacity, a novel idea representing the next generation of cities and a combination of advanced technologies within the framework of the metaverse. The main objective of this research is to identify the factors and barriers influencing the formation of metacities and to offer operational strategies for urban management to move toward metacities. Despite some leading cities around the world entering this domain, numerous ambiguities persist, necessitating multiple studies by researchers globally. Given the dynamism and vitality of cities, the integration of concepts related to metacities and the role of artificial intelligence and big data analytics will further enhance intelligent decision-making within this dynamism.

A mixed-methods research methodology (qualitative-quantitative) was selected for the study. In the qualitative section, thematic analysis was employed to code the data and extract the main and encompassing themes. In the quantitative section, the DEMATEL method was used to analyze the relationships between factors and determine their levels of influence and impact. Data were collected through unstructured interviews, focus groups, and questionnaires. The validity of the research was confirmed using interpretive validity methods, and its reliability was validated by calculating Holsti's reliability coefficient.

In this research, through extensive library studies and reviewing ۴۳۹ sources —including scientific books, research articles, theses, screenplays, urban documents, and reports from international and national organizations— the main structure of the work was extracted and outlined. Subsequently, by conducting interviews with ۸ experts and holding ۸ focus group sessions with a total of ۳۸ participants, valuable content comprising ۱,۴۷۶ different propositions was collected. After analysis, ۱,۸۰۴ themes were extracted. Through descriptive coding, the factors and barriers were categorized into ۴۷۰ different descriptive codes, and subsequently, ۵۷ interpretive codes in ۱۷ different topics were extracted using thematic analysis.

In the next stage, using a preliminary questionnaire and consulting with ۱۵ selected individuals, ۱۷ prioritized themes were chosen. Then, by distributing the final questionnaire, the relationships between these themes were evaluated. Using DEMATEL analysis, the degree of influence and impact of each was determined, and their prioritization relative to being a cause or effect was established. Finally, the three main research questions were answered.

Therefore, this research, by thoroughly and comprehensively examining the factors and barriers influencing the formation of metacities, provides a theoretical and practical framework for urban management and policymakers to pave the way for cities' development toward metacities. Given the rapid advancement of technology and the need for cities to synchronize with digital transformations, the findings of this study can serve as a roadmap for decision-makers and urban managers. It is recommended that future research focus on studying successful global experiences and evaluating the social and cultural impacts of metacities to adequately prepare for implementing this concept in local contexts.