Exploring critical factors for enhancing the effectiveness of scientific and technological innovation and policy implications based on data from China.

In the context of growing global competition in science and technology, improving the effectiveness of scientific and technological (S&T) innovation is critical for strengthening China's overall S&T competitiveness. To identify the critical factors that influence the enhancement of S&T innovation effectiveness, this study employs the grounded theory and qualitative analysis techniques. Based on survey data from domestic researchers (286 responses), a critical factor model was developed consisting of five primary dimensions: "researchers' professional skills-research team collaboration-research management and organizational support-construction of a research innovation environment-research policy and incentive mechanisms". Furthermore, a measurement scale for these critical factors (306 responses) was designed and distributed. The findings of the study are as follows: (1) Based on the initial categories obtained through open coding, researchers prioritize, researchers prioritize research output evaluation and performance incentives, investment and allocation of research resources, and the innovation environment and academic atmosphere, emphasizing the need for policies that integrate both 'hard' and 'soft' elements to foster innovation. (2) The enhancement of S&T innovation effectiveness is influenced by multiple factors, with the most critical being researchers' professional skills, followed by research policy and incentive mechanisms, research team collaboration, the research innovation environment, and organizational support. The conclusions of this study expect to provide valuable insights for enhancing research innovation motivation, refining research management policies, and identifying key areas for research support.