The impact of knowledge management on innovation

If you build it, will they come? Exploring the success factors of knowledge management systems in the Malaysian public sector

The current study investigates the factors that influence the success of knowledge management systems in the public sector. This study integrates the DeLone and McLean Model with critical organizational factors. The model has been tested on the data collected from 158 employees in the public sector in Malaysia, the study found that knowledge content quality has a higher significant impact on the use of knowledge management systems than system quality. Perceived usefulness also has a greater impact than user satisfaction in determining the system's overall success. Among the organizational factors, leadership is the most significant determinant of success. However, the culture of sharing, perceived trust, and incentives do not significantly influence the use of knowledge management systems. The findings suggest that public sector organizations should focus on both system and organizational factors to implement successful knowledge management systems.

Procedures for transferring organizational knowledge during generational change: A systematic review

The loss of organizational knowledge has emerged as a prevalent issue for 21st-century organizations. This systematic review aims to scrutinize knowledge transfer procedures applied to individuals in managerial and intermediate positions during generational change or knowledge management initiatives. Following the PRISMA statement [1], this review progressed through four stages, applying inclusion and exclusion criteria, and ultimately identifying 28 articles for the final analysis. Descriptive indicators and content-related metrics were employed in the study. Key findings include: (1) predominant investment in knowledge retention studies and procedure design is observed among large companies, primarily in the secondary sector; (2) digitalization emerges as a critical aspect of effective organizational knowledge transfer procedures and protocols; (3) intra-organizational communication styles are predominantly employed for knowledge transfer; (4) organizations prefer a collective approach to transferring both tacit and explicit knowledge. In summary, this research offers fresh insights into a pivotal area of business management, showcasing originality in its exploration of knowledge transfer within the realms of generational change and knowledge management.

The impact of knowledge management on the quality of services in nursing homes

Introduction

Current management strategies in nursing homes (NH) aim to ensure effective knowledge management (KM) in order to provide both best possible services to residents, and care for staff in NH. Teamwork in NH is essential for effective delivery of the highest quality of services. As a result, NH are increasingly adopting KM activities to enable knowledge creation, storage, transfer, and implementation in an environment facing many challenges such as lack of staff, increasing demands, and expectations of residents.

Methods

In our quantitative study, we examined how two Slovenian state NH that adopted the E-Qalin quality management model (European quality-improving learning model) adapted their KM, and what impact their quality management system and KM activities actually have on the quality of services. Furthermore, we examined how two Slovenian private NH that have not adopted a certified quality management program (like ISO or E-Qalin) tackle the issue of quality of services from the KM perspective. The sample consisted of 80 nursing professionals. In every NH that is part of this study, teamwork is essential and every individual that was involved in our survey is part of a team. In our study, we analyzed relationships between individual variables using linear regression.

Results

We found a significant and positive relationship between knowledge creation, transfer, and implementation in NH with and without the E-Qalin certificate. We found a significant and positive relationship between knowledge storage and the quality of services only in NH without a E-Qualin certificate. It seems that when connecting multidisciplinary fields such as NH and KM, there is still a lack of awareness and knowledge on the topic of KM, which might be one of the reasons for some bias in the answers provided by respondents. We also found different teamwork approaches in NH with and without a E-Qalin certificate. Our research results therefore emphasize the need to gain additional insight into quality management and KM in the environment of NH.

Conclusion

Teamwork based on knowledge storage, transfer, the implementation of existing knowledge, and creation of new knowledge are essential for well-trained professionals and, as a result, contribute to continuous improvement in service quality. Implementation of KM is well received by NH, and enables them to better meet the needs and expectations of residents. More importantly, nursing staff also share and pass on tacit knowledge through teamwork. Finally, all of the NH in our study that implemented quality and KM activities noted an improvement in the quality of services that are offered to residents in practice. Our results indicate that the topic of KM in NH is interesting, and it has a positive impact on the quality of services in practice. However, the problem of awareness and knowledge on the topic of KM in the environment of NH still exists, highlighting the need for further research, additional insight, and dissemination of knowledge to every interested stakeholder functioning in the field of NH. The results of the study make an important contribution to the research of KM in NH, focusing on the transfer of tacit knowledge.

The Impact of Knowledge Management Process and Intellectual Capital on Entrepreneurial Orientation and Innovation

Innovation is considered to be a dominant cause for sustainable business success. Knowledge management and intellectual capital are powerful tools to promote innovation in the organization. Therefore, this study aims to explore the influence of knowledge management process and intellectual capital on innovation with the mediating effect of entrepreneurial orientation and moderating role of leader education level. Data were collected from a sample of 393 IT firms listed in the Pakistan Software Houses Association and applied a partial least squares structural educational modeling (SEM) technique. The results show that the knowledge management process and intellectual capital have a positive effect on innovation. Moreover, the study confirms that entrepreneurial orientation partially mediates the relationship between knowledge management and intellectual capital on innovation. Furthermore, the moderation effect of a leader’s education was confirmed for the knowledge management-innovation relationship whereas, the moderation effect of the leader’s education on intellectual capital and innovation relationship was insignificant. Recommendations for practitioners and future research directions were also discussed.

Entrepreneurial Orientation and Organizational Performance of Online Business in Malaysia: The Mediating Role of the Knowledge Management Process

The aim of this paper is to examine the role of the knowledge management process as a mediating variable in the relationship between entrepreneurial orientation and organizational performance. This study employed a quantitative method and utilised a self-administered questionnaire. A total of 350 data were collected from the owners/founders of online businesses. A Partial Least Squares-Structural Equation Modelling (PLS-SEM) analysis was performed to test the proposed hypotheses of the study. The findings indicated that entrepreneurial orientation positively the knowledge management process, which in turn exerts a positive effect on the organizational performance of a company. Additionally, the indirect effect analysis revealed that the knowledge management process plays a significant role as a mediator between entrepreneurial orientation and organizational performance. The research fills a gap in the literature by considering a mediating variable in enhancing the relationship between entrepreneurial orientation and organizational performance. This research also provides a particular contribution to the literature and some suggestions for future research.

The Impact of Dynamic Accounting Information System on Organizational Resilience: The Mediating Role of Business Processes Capabilities

For decades, one of the main concerns of both practitioners and academics has been the business value of dynamic accounting information systems (DAIS). A number of studies have demonstrated the positive effects of information systems capability on overall organizational performance, but our understanding of the business processes capabilities through which such gains are achieved remains limited due to a lack of focus on the turbulent business environment. As a result, the research on information systems continues to debate such a connection. The role of business process capabilities in modulating the link between dynamic AIS capability and organizational resilience was investigated in this study. Our results show that, while firm-wide dynamic AIS capability has characteristics of flexible AIS, complement BI system, and AIS-related human resource competency, the impact on organizational resilience is positively affected by mediation of business process capabilities based on 144 matched questionnaires selected from large companies from various sectors listed on the Bursa Malaysia. Our results also suggest that dynamic AIS capability has an impact on organizational resilience. According to the Resource-Based Theory (RBT) and dynamic capabilities view (DCV) viewpoints, there is a link between dynamic AIS and business process capacity to improve organizational resilience. The findings strongly support the claim that an organization’s dynamic AIS capabilities—both flexible AIS, complementary business intelligence (BI) system, and AIS-related human resource competency—can help an organization improve its resilience. This research’s practical and theoretical ramifications as well as its limitations are examined.

Entrepreneurial Leadership and Entrepreneurial Success: The Role of Knowledge Management Processes and Knowledge Entrepreneurship

Various leadership styles have been widely studied to understand success. However, little research has empirically explored how entrepreneurial leadership (EL) influences entrepreneurial success (ES). Moreover, the role of knowledge management processes (KMPs) and knowledge entrepreneurship (KE) have been overlooked. Thus, using a knowledge-based view theory, this study aims to determine the relationship between EL and ES, mediated through KMPs. In addition, for a better understanding, the study also used KE as a moderator. A quantitative survey method has been employed to collect data from 390 entrepreneurial venture (EV) owners, co-founders, and managers in tech-oriented ventures (IT and Software-based) operating in Pakistan. Smart partial least squares (PLS) statistical software was used to analyze the impact mechanism of EL on ES through the structural equation model. The findings revealed that EL style positively influences ES. In addition, KMPs fully mediate the relationship between EL and ES. Furthermore, KE as a moderator, strengthens the relationships between EL and the knowledge management process. Theoretically, this study has complemented and enriched research on the influence mechanism between EL and ES. Practically, this study has important implications for leaders, managers, and founders to promote KMPs to achieve ES.

The role of cloud computing in knowledge management for small and medium enterprises: a systematic literature review

Purpose

Knowledge management (KM) is widely adopted by organisations to improve their performance and make informed decisions. Prior research has confirmed that Information Systems (IS) play a critical role in effective KM. The purpose of this study is to examine the existing literature on the role of cloud-based KM systems (C-KMS) in small- and medium-sized enterprise (SMEs) by understanding its impact on the five KM processes: knowledge acquisition, creation, storage, sharing and usage.

Design/methodology/approach

This study conducted a systematic literature review by examining 133 journal articles and 24 conference papers from 2010 to 2021 on the role of cloud computing in KM for SMEs.

Findings

This study revealed that there are numerous empirical analyses on KM processes and tools in SMEs; however, only few studies demonstrate how the whole gamut of KM processes can adopt cloud computing in SMEs. Therefore, SMEs are ineffective at KM with limited IS intervention. This paper offers a proposition on how C-KMS can impact all five KM process, thereby increasing its effectiveness of KM in SMEs. This study analysed the benefits of C-KMS that brings to SMEs in terms of availability, scalability, reliability, security and cost.

Research limitations/implications

This systematic review is restricted to certain databases (ScienceDirect, Sage journals, Scopus and Emerald Insight) and specific IS conference proceedings to source articles. The selection of search criteria and time frame is based on this study’s assessment and choice. This study adds value to our understanding of the role of KM in SMEs, and it reinforces the role of cloud computing in effectively managing knowledge in SMEs. The proposal of C-KMS for the enhancement of KM has significant implications for SMEs to effectively use knowledge for their survival and superior performance.

Practical implications

This study suggests three practical implications. First, adopting and using C-KMS provide a strong foundation to manage knowledge for SMEs in a cost-effective way. Second, C-KMS improves the effectiveness of KM by increasing availability of knowledge artifacts, which in turn aids SMEs’ growth. Third, C-KMS is useful to codify SME’s knowledge, and accordingly supports employees to acquire and use knowledge based on their requirements.

Social implications

This study discussed C-KMS with contemporary social issues, such as the COVID-19 pandemic challenges for SMEs and demonstrated how C-KMS can support SMEs to handle such crises by managing knowledge effectively.

Originality/value

This research highlights the importance of the implementation of a C-KMS for the enhancement of KM in SMEs. The review provides empirical evidence on the challenges faced by SMEs regarding KM, as they often only have enough resources to focus on a single KM process, predominantly knowledge sharing. Consequently, a holistic approach to KM cannot be realised by SMEs. In this context, the findings of this study offer theoretical and practical insights into the role of cloud computing by addressing the challenges of KM in SMEs.

Impact of Knowledge-Based HRM Practices on Organizational Performance

This paper examines the components of Intellectual Capital (IC) as mediating variables between knowledge-based Human Resource Management (HRM) practices and organizational performance. Therefore, integrating research channels in the field of human resource and organization performance. Factor analysis and path analysis have been performed to test the research model and finally parallel mediation effects of the mediators have been examined. Outcomes of the study showed that HRM practices lead to the creation of Intellectual Capital, and the relationship between HRM and performance is positively mediated by components of IC in context of Indian service sector. Additionally, in comparison, amongst the mediators, organizational capital is found to be the most contributing component followed by human and relational capital. The findings of this research will assist the HR managers and organizations in the composition and positioning of HRM practices and IC.

Organizational learning, entrepreneurial orientation and personal values towards SMEs’ growth in Indonesia

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to examine the dimensions of organizational learning (OL), entrepreneurial orientation (EO), personal value toward the firm performance of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in North Sumatera, Indonesia.

Design/methodology/approach

This study used a quantitative methodology using Smart partial least squares of the structural equation model. A survey is done by distributing the questionnaires to the respondents (owner-managers) of SMEs across sectors. Using a convenient sampling technique, 128 respondents are selected. Using a cross-sectional survey design, 11 hypotheses are tested.

Findings

It is found that the innovativeness of EO and personal value both have a significant relationship with firm growth. While OL is significantly related to the innovativeness of EO, risk-taking of EO and proactiveness of EO. Then, both innovativeness of EO and proactiveness of EO significantly mediate the relationship of OL and firm growth. However, OL, proactiveness of EO and risk-taking of EO are insignificantly related to firm growth, while risk-taking of EO also insignificantly mediates the relationship of OL and firm growth.

Originality/value

EO (innovativeness, risk-taking and proactiveness) is deemed a crucial factor in running businesses by SMEs, while OL and personal value play a significant role in creating a competitive advantage that is needed for growth.

Knowledge management practices and green innovation in SMES: the role of environmental awareness towards environmental sustainability

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to examine the impact of knowledge management dimensions (i.e. knowledge acquisition, knowledge dissemination and knowledge responsiveness) on green innovation. The study also seeks to determine whether these relationships are mediated by the environmental awareness in small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in the UAE.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were obtained from a sample of 194 SMEs (two informants from each firm that consist of 388 top managers) in Abu Dhabi, UAE. In this cross-sectional study, convenience random sampling was used. The positivism approach was adopted using a hypothetical statistical induction method. Validated measurement scales were used to measure the study constructs adopted from previous studies. Data were analysed using a quantitative approach with Smart partial least squares structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM) 3.0.

Findings

The results of the study indicated a positive and significant association between knowledge acquisition, knowledge dissemination and knowledge responsiveness with green innovation. Moreover, the data analysis confirmed that environmental awareness mediates the relationship between knowledge dissemination and green innovation. However, no mediation role of environmental awareness in the relationship between knowledge acquisition and knowledge responsiveness with green innovation was found.

Practical implications

Knowing how to manage knowledge effectively is considered to be one of the most important aspects of green innovations. Nonetheless, there was a dearth of literature highlighting the relevance of knowledge management for long-term organisational success. The results of this study present practical implications for SME professionals. Green innovation with the support of environmental awareness may help a firm understand and implement the importance of knowledge management into their administrative operations. They can subsequently become eco-innovative ecologically, economically and socially.

Originality/value

This is one of the very few studies that examine the effect of knowledge management dimensions (knowledge acquisition, knowledge dissemination and knowledge responsiveness) on green innovation in UAE SMEs.

The drivers of employee creativity and organizational innovation: a dynamic capability view

Purpose

This paper aims to examine the drivers of employee creativity and organizational innovation empirically. And to study how employee creativity significantly impacts organizational innovation in a highly competitive market.

Design/methodology/approach

This study is grounded in positivism philosophy. The theoretical model is grounded in the dynamic capability view (DCV) and further developed ten hypotheses and sub-hypotheses. To test our research hypotheses the authors utilized psychometric-based instruments. The authors obtained 575 responses from the automobile industry in India after multiple follow-ups. The data were utilized to check the construct validity and tested the authors’ research hypotheses using the co-variance-based structural equation modeling (SEM) tool (IBM SPSS AMOS 20.0).

Findings

The results support the authors’ research hypotheses. The findings of this study conform to the previous findings of the scholars which is an important aspect of the study. In the past various scholars have made an attempt to reproduce the results in different contexts. In a way, it helps to build confidence in the scientific merit of the results. It may be considered as an incremental contribution to the literature but it helps establish confidence in the theory of creativity and innovation.

Practical implications

The results offer a nuanced understanding to the practitioners and policy makers to understand “what” and “how” to improve employee creativity that plays a significant role in organizational innovation.

Originality/value

This study is an attempt to examine how the theory of creativity and innovation can be embraced by the Indian automobile industry.

Intellectual capital, knowledge management and competitive advantage: a resource orchestration perspective

Purpose

This study aims to examine the influence of intellectual capital and knowledge management on competitive advantage with the mediation role of innovativeness in the Pakistan manufacturing industry. Moreover, differentiation strategy is used as a moderator between innovativeness and competitive advantage.

Design/methodology/approach

The data was collected from 387 manufacturing firms in Pakistan through questionnaires. Purposive random sampling was used to collect data. The partial least square structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) method is used to test the proposed hypotheses. This study followed multiple regression analyses to see the influence of intellectual capital, knowledge management, innovativeness and differentiation strategy on competitive advantage.

Findings

The results elucidate that intellectual capital and knowledge management significantly determines innovativeness and competitive advantage. Moreover, innovativeness significantly mediates between intellectual capital, knowledge management and competitive advantage. Besides, innovativeness significantly determines competitive advantage. Business strategies significantly lead to competitive advantage. Finally, business strategies significantly moderate between innovativeness and competitive advantage.

Practical implications

The research highlight an important issue that how manufacturing sector management uses intellectual capital, knowledge management, innovativeness and business strategies in determining competitive advantage. Besides, it covers the gap and assists the management of the manufacturing sector to focus on exogenous constructs to examine competitive advantage.

Originality/value

This study adds value to the body of knowledge by focusing on predictors that impact competitive advantage. This initial study determines intellectual capital and knowledge management influence on competitive advantage and innovativeness as a mediator by using resource orchestration theory. Moreover, differentiation strategy is used as moderating variable between innovativeness and competitive advantage. The managers, students and researchers can obtain benefits from this study.

Malaysian SMEs m-commerce adoption: TAM 3, UTAUT 2 and TOE approach

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to examine the factors that influence Malaysian Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) to adopt mobile commerce (m-commerce) by integrating the constructs of Technology Acceptance Model 3 (TAM 3), Universal Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology 2 and Technology-Organization-Environment model. Though numerous m-commerce adoption (MCA) studies have been conducted, lesser attention is paid to how hedonic motivation (HM) can influence organizational users such as SMEs. This study bridges the gap by integrating the three models to provide a new lens to guide SMEs.

Design/methodology/approach

To examine the factors that influence the adoption of m-commerce, the researchers collected data from SMEs in Malaysia using an online survey. The sample size of the participants was determined through the available list provided by SME Corp Malaysia. The researchers also used Krejcie and Morgan’s sample size and G * Power techniques to determine that the sample size was appropriate. The data collected were analyzed using partial least square-structural equation modeling.

Findings

The findings of this study reveal that technological factors (computer self-efficacy [CSE], result demonstrability [RD] and computer anxiety [CA]) positively and significantly influence MCA. Likewise, the organizational/environmental factors (m-commerce knowledge, pressure from trading partners and pressure from competitors) positively and significantly influence MCA. The moderating influence of HM was also achieved on the relationship between CSE and RD. However, the proposed hedonic moderating relationship between CA and the adoption of m-commerce is not significant.

Research limitations/implications

This study integrates three models to explain the adoption of m-commerce among SMEs in Malaysia and tested the moderating influence of HM. The results obtained better explain the decision by the SMEs to use m-commerce.

Originality/value

The study critically considered how m-commerce can be adopted by SMEs in Malaysia, which previous studies have largely ignored. Considering this, the study, therefore, advances a new relationship by integrating Technology-organization-environment model with TAM 3 and the moderating influence of HM to explain MCA among SMEs. This paper is one of the few research studies to test the moderating influence of HM in this regard.

Unpacking knowledge management and organizational performance: a comparison between emerging and developing countries

Purpose

The study explores the impact of knowledge-oriented leadership (KOL) on knowledge management (KM) processes and the indirect relationship of KM processes with organizational performance (OP) via mediating the role of creative organizational learning (COL) in cross-cultural settings.

Design/methodology/approach

This research used a survey structure of 784 faculty and admin personnel from higher education institutions in China and Pakistan. Smart-PLS, 3.2.9 was used to perform analysis.

Findings

The result shows a significant positive influence of KOL on KM processes and KM processes on OP via the partial mediating effect of COL in China, Pakistan and the overall sample. The multi-group analysis confirmed the substantial differential effect of KOL on KM processes.

Practical implications

Outcomes of this research affirm KM's university practice and recommend how higher education academics and administrators prioritize KOL, KM processes and COL while strengthening OP in a culturally different environment.

Originality/value

The current research is among the initial experiments to determine KOL, KM processes, COL and organizational (University) performance relationships in a culturally different environment. The study is among the initials that just not empirically explore the associations between the factors but sheds light on existing literature by immediately exploring COL's mediating position in China and Pakistan's HEIs.

The impact knowledge management processes on business performance via the role of accounting information quality as a mediating factor

Purpose

This study aims to empirically investigate the role of accounting information quality (AIQ) as a mediating factor in the relationship between knowledge management (KM) processes and business performance (BP) of the financial institutions (FI) operating in Jordan.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on a literature review and knowledge-based theory, an integrated conceptual framework has been developed to guide the study. The study’s conceptual framework is constituted of three primary constructs, namely, KM processes (acquisition, integration and utilization), BP (financial indicators and non-financial indicators) and AIQ conceptualized using the International Accounting Standard Board’s (2010) framework fundamental qualitative characteristics (relevance, understandability, faith representation and comparability). Data has been collected through a self-administered questionnaire applied to 247 respondents. The targeted respondents have been FIs (commercial banks and insurance companies) in Jordan.

Findings

The main findings supported accounting information as a mediator factor in enhancing the relationship between the FIs’ KM process and BP (FI) operating in Jordan.

Originality/value

This study contributed to theory by filling a gap in the literature regarding the role AIQ as a mediator factor between the KM process and BP of the FI operating in Jordan as a developing country.

Knowledge Management Processes and Service Innovation: Key Insights from Saudi International Airports

This study aims to examine the influence of knowledge management processes and organizational creativity on service innovation for international airports in Saudi Arabia. A questionnaire was used to collect data from a convenient sample of 315 respondents. The results extend the “spiral” knowledge assumption to include knowledge sharing and application processes. The study finds that knowledge creation has a significant positive impact on knowledge sharing, which in turn influences knowledge application. Moreover, knowledge management processes have a significant positive impact on organizational creativity, whereas organizational creativity does not have any impact on service innovation.

Sustainability Performance of Organization: Mediating Role of Knowledge Management

Research about sustainable performance and its impact on the organization’s economic, social, and environmental development has attracted the attention of many scholars. However, the research investigating the relationship between sustainable performance from traditional organizations based on local culture is still underdeveloped. This study aimed to examine the relationship among organizational culture and leadership styles with knowledge management and sustainable performance. Moreover, this study investigates knowledge management’s role as a mediating variable in the relationship between organizational culture, leadership style, and sustainable performance. This study adopted a quantitative approach using the purposive sampling method with a questionnaire distributed to 99 respondents in Bali Province, Indonesia. The analysis technique was SEM-PLS. The results revealed that organizational culture and transformational leadership have significant effects on knowledge management. This study also proves that knowledge management mediates the relationship between organizational culture and sustainable performance, as well as the relationship between leadership style and sustainable performance. Theoretically, this study confirms the knowledge-based theory about knowledge management practices and sustainability performance. The present study also highlights the characteristics of organizational culture in traditional organizations and the effectiveness of transformational leadership to achieve sustainable organizational performance. Practically, the results provide insights to aid governments and regulators in continuously implementing knowledge management to achieve sustainable performance.

The effect of ICT and higher-order capabilities on the performance of Ibero-American SMEs

Information and communication technologies (ICT) has the ability to create value by enabling other firm capabilities. Based on the ICT-enabled capabilities perspective, this study explores the direct and indirect effects between lower- and higher-order capabilities, such as ICT, knowledge management capability (KM) and product innovation flexibility (PIF), on the performance of Ibero-American small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). This paper uses second-order structural equation models to test the research hypotheses with a sample of 130 Ibero-American SMEs. The results contribute to filling the gap in the SME-focused literature on empirical studies examining ICT-enabled capabilities and firm performance. The results show an enabling effect of ICT on higher-order capabilities, such as KM and PIF, which, by acting as mediating variables, create value and improve performance through innovation in firms.

Innovation speed and quality in higher education institutions: the role of knowledge management enablers and knowledge sharing process

Purpose

Higher education institutions, particularly in developing countries, are striving for superior innovation performance to cope with the challenges of contemporary educational environment. Drawing on the knowledge management capability model and knowledge-based view of firms, this study aims to determine the impact of knowledge management enablers, namely, top management knowledge value, knowledge-oriented culture and knowledge-based rewards, on innovation speed and quality and assessing the mediating role of knowledge sharing process.

Design/methodology/approach

Data are collected from 234 academics of higher education institutions in Pakistan and analyzed through the partial least squares structural equation modeling technique.

Findings

The results indicate that top management knowledge value and knowledge-based rewards have a positive effect on innovation speed and quality. Although knowledge-oriented culture also contributes to innovation quality, it does not influence the innovation speed. Moreover, the knowledge sharing process mediates the effect of all these knowledge management enablers on innovation speed and quality.

Practical implications

This study underscores the importance of three key knowledge management enablers in higher education institutions. The findings of this study suggest that signaling knowledge value from the top management, fostering knowledge-oriented culture and enacting a knowledge-based reward system are critical in facilitating knowledge sharing process and enhancing innovation speed and quality in higher education institutions.

Originality/value

This is among one of the earlier studies that investigates the influence of top management knowledge value, knowledge-oriented culture and knowledge-based rewards on innovation speed and quality, particularly in higher education institutions, and determines the mediating role of the knowledge sharing process.

The Differences in the Propensity of Providing Smart Services by SMEs from the Electrical Engineering Industry with Regard to Their Cooperation and Innovation Flexibility

There is still a lack of empirical evidence about smart service in general, and more particularly, in small and medium sized firms (SMEs). For SMEs, where the implementation of smart technologies is more demanding, the importance of cooperation with other business partners and innovation flexibility increases dramatically. The purpose of this article is to determine how the cooperation and innovation flexibility of SMEs affect the propensity to provide smart services in the electrical engineering industry. This paper also contributes a deeper insight into the intensity scale of collaboration within SME providers of smart services regarding the types of smart services offered. The empirical evidence is based on quantitative and firm-level data gathered through an email questionnaire which yielded 112 SME companies from the electrical engineering industry in the Czech Republic. The analysis is based on factor analysis, non-parametric tests, and binary logistic regression to identify the differences and effects of collaboration and innovation flexibility. The results of the factors affected confirmed external cooperation flexibility with customers and innovative flexibility in relation to the products as significant with inverse relationships between external collaboration with customers and the propensity to provide smart services. It is evident that weak ties in external customer cooperation flexibility operate as incentives or driving forces in the provision of smart services to establish closer relationships. The deeper research insights as well as the theoretical and practical implications are discussed at the end of the paper.

From venture capital towards venture firm innovation performance: evidence from SMEs of China

Based on information asymmetry, agency theory and resource-based view (RBV), this study investigates the impact of venture capital (VC) on venture firm innovation performance, ascertains the extent to which VC affects venture firm innovation performance and finds the mediating effect of management incentives. Constructing a sample of a novel panel dataset of firms listed on the SME Board of China, we examined a sample of 927 start-ups between 2008 and 2017, showing a notable negative relationship between VC and Patent, and a positive relationship between VC and total factor productivity (TFP), providing stable evidence that VC could not spur firm patent directly, but facilitate the commercialization of innovation. Moreover, it shows that management equity incentives (MEI) and management cash incentives (MCI) playing significant positive mediating role between VC and TFP, while there is no mediating effect between VC and Patent. Findings of this study strengthen the experience of VC and suggest how practitioners of SMEs to enhance the commercialization of innovation, considerably extends our understanding of the impact of VC on venture firm innovation performance.

Factors Affecting Knowledge Management and Its Effect on Organizational Performance: Mediating the Role of Human Capital

This study aims to investigate and identify the factors affecting the empowerment and implementation of knowledge management in organizations as well as the impact of knowledge management on organizational performance. This study also examines the mediating role of human capital in the relationship between knowledge management and performance of Kabul Steel Plant, which is the largest steel plant in Afghanistan. The research model was developed through the literature review. The initial data were collected through a questionnaire containing 48 questions. Participants were 108 managers and administrative staff of the company. The collected data were analyzed by using the SPSS and SmartPLS software. The hypotheses regarding the impact of strategy and technology on knowledge management were rejected by using correlation analysis and t-test statistic. Finally, the findings showed the positive effects of variables of structure, culture, leadership, and trust on knowledge management in an organization. Also, knowledge management influences the organizational performance, both directly and through the mediating variable of human capital. This research encourages the managers and employees of organizations to use the available organizational resources to implement knowledge management in organizations and improve knowledge management practices and human resources that are the most valuable resources of any organization in order to remain competitive in the markets.

How exploitative leadership influences on knowledge management processes: the moderating role of organisational citizenship behaviour

Purpose

Drawing on knowledge-based view, social exchange theory and leader-member exchange, this study examines how exploitative leadership (EL) influences knowledge management (KM), its processes, and further investigates the moderating role of organisational citizenship behaviours (OCB) on the relationship between EL and KM.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a quantitative approach, survey data were collected from 356 faculty members in Iraqi public universities, and the direct and moderating relationships were assessed through Hierarchical regression by PROCESS v.3.3 macros in SPSS.

Findings

The study found a significant negative impact of EL on KM, including its processes, especially on knowledge utilisation. The assessment also revealed that OCB has a significant moderating impact on EL, particularly its effect on knowledge creation.

Practical implications

The empirical insights of the study are valuable and precious for policymakers, managers and academics in education sectors of developing countries, to enrich their managerial and scientific performance through addressing EL behaviours while considering the moderating effect of OCB.

Originality/value

The relevance of the study stems from the scarcity of research on EL, while studies on the negative behaviours of leaders as a predictor of KM process failures are significantly limited. Additionally, studies on the moderating impact of OCB on the linkage between EL and KM processes remain limited. This study is one of the earliest studies that investigate these inter-relationships amongst EL, OCB and KM processes.

Research on Knowledge Management Models at Universities Using Fuzzy Analytic Hierarchy Process (FAHP)

This study aims to investigate and evaluate factors related to the knowledge management model at universities in Hanoi, Vietnam. Based on the system literature review (SLR) approach, the study follows descriptive and inductive approach results of the document review process. Eight factors were synthesized with the fuzzy analytic hierarchy process (FAHP) to evaluate the priority order. Ten experts from seven universities participated in the survey. The results rank as follows: (1) knowledge sharing factor (this also has the highest best nonfuzzy performance (BNP) and average multiplier weight (GM)); (2) knowledge management with big data systems; (3) knowledge creation; (4) knowledge use; (5) knowledge gathering; (6) leadership; (7) knowledge rating; and (8) knowledge storage. Discussions, conclusions, limitations of the study, and suggestions for future studies are also mentioned in this study.

Enabling knowledge sharing through psychological safety in inter-organisational arrangements

Purpose

This study aims to generate additional insights into the relationship between knowledge sharing (KS) and psychological safety (PS) in an inter-organisational arrangement through the lens of the knowledge-based view and PS theory.

Design/methodology/approach

A relational data survey was designed to collect systematic information from key actors in two manufacturing organisations. The questionnaire assessed KS as the dependent variable and four independent variables – three behavioural (respect, tolerance, trust) and one contextual (suitable working environment) – as proxies of PS. The multiple regression quadratic assignment procedure was used to analyse the effect of PS on KS.

Findings

This paper strengthens the findings of previous studies that identify PS as a relevant antecedent of KS in organisations. Additionally, the paper also suggests that a relational approach is more relevant to understand PS as a group concept measured through networks of respect, tolerance, trust and suitable working environments.

Practical implications

This study may help managers identify ways in which they can strengthen the work-related relationships when such behavioural and contextual variables occur in inter-organisational arrangements, and thus obtaining additional relational rents based on an increase in KS.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the literature on how KS in organisations is driven by behavioural and contextual variables that can be operationalised as PS. Moreover, this study expands the understanding of previous research on PS by taking a relational approach to its conceptualisation and measurement within a Latin American context.

Catalyzing knowledge management processes towards knowledge worker satisfaction: fuzzy-set qualitative comparative analysis

Purpose

Constructed upon the knowledge-based view, the purpose of this study is to investigate the interrelationship between internal marketing, knowledge management processes and knowledge worker satisfaction. The study also postulates that specific combinations of internal marketing dimensions and knowledge management processes can lead to improved knowledge worker satisfaction.

Design/methodology/approach

The study sample is gathered from 248 personnel of Pakistan higher education institutions (HEI’s). The interrelationships are checked through Smart PLS 3.2.8. The fuzzy set qualitative comparative analysis (fsQCA) is used to examine configurational paths for improving knowledge worker satisfaction.

Findings

The results of the study show that in HEI’s, internal marketing has a substantial influence on knowledge management processes, and knowledge management processes strongly enhance knowledge worker satisfaction. The result from fsQCA reveals multiple configurational paths to improve knowledge worker satisfaction.

Originality/value

There is a scarcity of research that has explored the association of internal marketing, knowledge management processes and knowledge worker satisfaction. This study attempts to examine their inter-relationships in HEI’s. Methodologically, the study contributes by combining direct and configurational methods to foster the knowledge of organizational (higher education) matters. The use of fsQCA reveals multiple pathways to improve knowledge worker satisfaction and exposes asymmetric relationships between internal marketing and knowledge management processes that lead to knowledge worker satisfaction. The study identifies the interactions among variables that might not be directly obvious via conventional symmetric methods.

Sustainable Knowledge Management and Firm Innovativeness: The Contingent Role of Innovative Culture

This study presents the moderating effect of innovative culture on the relationship between knowledge management and firm innovativeness. The consequences of organisations that do not practice innovative culture would result in their inability to respond and react effectively to changes in the dynamic nature of the business environment and henceforth unable to achieve superior performance. In attempting to answer the research questions, a total of 202 MSC Malaysia organisations took part in the survey. To assess the developed model, WarpPLS (version 7.0) was applied based on path modelling and then bootstrapping. The results highlighted that three of the four dimensions of knowledge management, namely knowledge acquisition, knowledge application and knowledge protection were positively and significantly related to firm innovativeness. On the other hand, innovative culture was found to moderate the relationships between knowledge acquisition and firm innovativeness; and knowledge application and firm innovativeness.

The interaction between social media, knowledge management and service quality: A decision tree analysis

The existing literature fails to identify to which extent the utilization of social media could be relevant for increasing the effectiveness of knowledge management, in respect to overall business operations. In order to shed some light on this area we define three goals. Firstly, we investigate to what extent the different activities of clients on social media (SM), are important to the processes of knowledge management (KM) in companies. Secondly, we examine to what extent KM functions can be relevant in attaining the quality of IT services. Thirdly, we analyze to what extent KM mediates between SM and the quality of IT services, that is, which client activities on SM should be formalised in the form of KM processes so as to influence the quality of IT services. In order to asses these goals, the decision tree method was used at the sample of B2B companies, more specifically at the sample of those companies offering Knowledge Intensive Business Services (KIBS). The study has shown that: (i) SM client activities have the largest importance for building efficient KM; (ii) KM functions are relevante to the overall quality of IT services, and (iii) those SM options and activities have been identified, whose importance for the assessment of the quality of IT services is indirectly transmitted through KM. This paper offers new empirical evidence which can lead to a better understanding of the role of KM in KIBS. Thanks to the obtained findings, managers will be able to define the goals of their companies in relation to the utilization of SM, more specifically: their presentation on SM, monitoring the outcomes of the SM, usage improving their KM practices and, thus, define strategies to increase the quality of the IT services they offer.

Fueling knowledge management processes in Chinese higher education institutes (HEIs): the neglected mediating role of knowledge worker satisfaction

Purpose

Constructed upon knowledge-based view, the study examines the influence of internal marketing on knowledge management processes and the indirect association of knowledge management processes with organizational performance through mediating role of knowledge worker satisfaction.

Design/methodology/approach

This study used a sample frame of 536 academic and administrative employees from higher education institutions in China; structural equation modeling was performed using Smart PLS 3.2.8.

Findings

The outcome reveals that internal marketing has a significant impact on knowledge management processes. The results revealed a direct insignificant impact of knowledge management processes on organizational performance; the study found full mediation of knowledge worker satisfaction on the linkage between knowledge management processes and organizational performance.

Practical implications

Outcomes of this research strengthen the universities’ experience of knowledge management and recommend how academics and administrators of higher education institute can value knowledge worker satisfaction, which in turn improves organizational performance.

Originality/value

Although, there is an increased significance of knowledge management in higher education institutions, there is a lack of research that examines the enabling factors and outcomes of knowledge management practices. The present study is one of the first studies to ascertain the relationship of internal marketing, knowledge management processes, knowledge worker satisfaction and organizational performance. This is one of the initial research studies that not only empirically examines the interrelationships among these variables but also enlightens insights into the current literature by instantaneous investigation of the mediating role of knowledge worker satisfaction.

The impact of knowledge management practice on digital financial innovation: the role of bank managers

Purpose

This paper aims to examine the impact of knowledge management functions (acquisition, integration and utilization) on digital financial innovation through the moderating role of managers’ demographic characteristics (age, sex, education, experience and position) in commercial banks operating in Lebanon.

Design/methodology/approach

To accomplish this aim, a conceptual framework based on knowledge-based theory and literature review was developed the data for this research was collected through a self-administered questionnaire with 181 respondents. The target respondents were managers of commercial banks in Lebanon.

Findings

The empirical findings of the study suggest that the practice of knowledge management functions practice has a positive and significant relationship with digital financial innovation. The findings also provide support for the moderating effect of only two demographic characteristics of bank managers; experience and position on the relationship between knowledge management and digital financial innovation in commercial banks in Lebanon.

Practical implications

The managers of commercial banks in Lebanon and similar countries could use the study findings to better understand the practices of knowledge management in the banks and also the skills acquired or existing in the individuals working in their organizations and is also helpful to enhance their level of digital financial innovations.

Originality/value

This study has investigated the unexplored impact of knowledge management on digital financial innovation via moderating role of managers' demographic characteristics among commercial banks operating in Lebanon as a developing country.

Knowledge Management Practice in General Education Schools as a Tool for Sustainable Development

The already scarce and further dwindling natural resources, increasing environmental pollution, and other environmental, economic, and social challenges that transcend national boundaries necessitate the continuous pursuit of the more responsible implementation of the principles of sustainable development in the public and business sectors, especially in general education schools, as the future and welfare of the society depend on education results. Therefore, the implementation of knowledge management practices in general education schools is one of the efficient ways of achieving the principles of sustainable development and their positive outcomes for society and the state. This research aimed to evaluate the peculiarities of applying knowledge management practices in general education schools for sustainable development. Research methods such as analysis of scientific literature, multiple-criteria assessment, survey, and expert evaluation were used to achieve the goal of the study. The results of the study showed that there is a high potential in general education schools for the application of knowledge management practices to achieve sustainable development. However, general education schools still face a lack of teachers’ motivation and a lack of financial resources to apply knowledge management practices and improve knowledge infrastructure for sustainability.

Impact of entrepreneurial leadership on project success: mediating role of knowledge management processes

Purpose

Drawing on the knowledge-based view (KBV), the study investigates the impact of entrepreneurial leadership (EL) on knowledge management (KM) processes and further examines the mediating role of KM processes on the linkage between EL and project success (PS).

Design/methodology/approach

Survey data were collected from 304 project workers in software projects, and the proposed relationships were assessed through SMART-PLS structural equation modeling tool.

Findings

The study found a significant impact of EL on KM processes and PS. The analysis also revealed that KM processes significantly impact project success while EL impact PS indirectly through KM processes.

Originality/value

The relevancy of the research stems from the scarcity of research on EL, while studies on the role of leadership as a predictor of KM are significantly limited. Additionally, there is a scarcity of research on the impact of KM on project success. This is one of the earliest studies that investigate the inter-relationship among EL, KM processes and project success.

RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN CONDITIONS OF KNOWLEDGE MANAGEMENT AND INNOVATION CAPABILITY IN NEW TECHNOLOGY-BASED FIRMS

Successfully developing a new product, service or production process for commercial purposes involves complex and dynamic changes, and therefore requires conditions of knowledge management that fosters innovation. In this sense, processes by which knowledge is created and exploited in the firm constitute key competence and source of innovation capabilities. The objective of the study is to examine the relationship between conditions of knowledge management and innovation capability. The sample consists of 102 Colombian new technology-based firms. According to results, conditions of knowledge management has a positive effect on innovation capability, specifically flexible structure, information and communications technology, strategic purpose, and competitive environment. The results help firms, especially those that require a lot of knowledge and carry out their activities in uncertain and dynamic environments, to management and understand how the processes of innovation capability are influenced by the conditions of knowledge management.

Tracing the evolution of the literature on knowledge management in inter-organizational contexts: a bibliometric analysis

Purpose

Based on the growing interest devoted to knowledge management (KM) in inter-organizational contexts, the purpose of this paper is to systematize existing literature and understand how it developed over time, thus tracing its roots and evolution to unveil gaps and suggest new promising areas for future research.

Design/methodology/approach

This study used bibliographic techniques to analyze a sample of 85 studies along three main periods (1998-2010, 2011-2014 and 2015-2019). In particular, this study focused on co-occurrences of keywords to identify the most dominant themes, as well as connections among these themes.

Findings

Overall, the review shows the main outlets that have published papers on the topic of KM in inter-organizational contexts, as well as the theoretical background this research builds on. The temporal analysis exhibits the core topics that have persisted and grown consistently over time as the links between KM, innovation and networks. In addition, the review highlights new emerging themes, such as the human and social side of KM, and new interesting contexts of study (e.g. coopetition and open/user innovation), which opens exciting avenues for new research opportunities.

Originality/value

This study illustrates the conceptual structure of the field in three distinct periods and contributes to a more nuanced understanding of the key topics and their interrelatedness within the area of KM in inter-organizational contexts. Both researchers and practitioners can profit from the study because it reveals consolidated topics while identifying areas that still need to be investigated to foster KM in inter-organizational settings.

Knowledge management processes, knowledge worker satisfaction, and organizational performance

Purpose

Drawing on the knowledge-based view, the purpose of this paper is to investigate the interrelationship between Knowledge Management (KM) processes, Knowledge Worker Satisfaction (KWS) and Organizational Performance (OP). Additionally, the study further seeks to identify the combinations of KM processes and KWS dimensions that can lead to enhanced OP.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were collected from 248 academics and administration employees of Higher Education Institutions (HEIs). The relationships were tested using SmartPLS 3.2.7. The study also employed fuzzy set Qualitative Comparative Analysis (fsQCA) for examining configurational paths.

Findings

The results of the study revealed that KM processes significantly affect KWS and KWS enhances OP in HEIs. Based on fsQCA, the results revealed multiple configurational paths to improved OP.

Originality/value

There is significant lack of research that ascertains the inter-relationship between KM processes, KWS, and OP. This is one of the initial studies that examines the relationship of KM processes, KWS, and OP in HEI’s. From a methodological perspective, the study contributes by combining symmetric and asymmetric statistical tools in KM literature. fsQCA helps to understand the interactions that might not be immediately obvious through traditional symmetric methods.

Accelerated engaged tacit knowledge acquisition during executive succession

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to provide a model that can explain how organizations may retain their executives’ tacit knowledge in the organization especially during the succession period. The proposed model takes into consideration three critical contexts that may assist in improving the knowledge flow during the transition period, namely, motivation context, transition context and ability context.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper presents a conceptual framework that emphasizes the importance of the will and skill of two parties involved in succession, i.e. the predecessor and successor, as well as the context of the succession. To this end, the paper advances a set of propositions that explain how these different contexts affect the quantity and quality of the knowledge acquired by the successor at the end of the succession period.

Findings

This paper advances a theoretical model that describes the antecedents and moderator of job-specific knowledge acquired during executive succession.

Research limitations/implications

This paper presents a theoretical model that explains knowledge flow during the transitory period of succession. It emphasizes the importance of the motivation and ability of the partners involved while taking into consideration the context of succession.

Practical implications

This paper contributes considerably and in a practical manner to managers in general and to human resource managers in particular. It draws the attention of concerned managers to check the motivation of both successor and predecessor in experiencing the transition, explain to the successors the job description of the position to direct their attention to learn specific knowledge and equip both parties involved in the succession with the needed skills.

Originality/value

This paper advances a new concept termed as accelerated engaged tacit knowledge acquisition. This concept complements other perspectives of knowledge flow and learning and takes into consideration the specific context of executive succession.

Linking knowledge management processes to innovation

Purpose

This paper aims to analyse the relationship between knowledge management processes and innovation (KM-IN) in Brazilian and Portuguese companies.

Design/methodology/approach

The tests were performed using a sequential mixed-method approach. Quantitative analysis was conducted using 341 observations from Brazilian and Portuguese companies and partial least squares techniques. Qualitative analysis was conducted using ten interviews and content analysis techniques.

Findings

Results showed differences between Brazilian and Portuguese companies with respect to the relationship between knowledge sharing process and innovation. Portuguese companies cope with the geographical dispersal of operations and the lack of interpersonal skills by introducing formal knowledge sharing processes.

Practical implications

Findings demonstrate that the transfer of knowledge processes to foreign countries may demand adjustments according to cultural traits. Specifically, the findings will be of interest to firms intending to expand their activities between Brazil and Portugal.

Originality/value

Although researchers have investigated the influence of the national context in many countries, country comparisons are still scarce.

How do Knowledge Management Practices Affect Sustainable Balanced Performance? Mediating Role of Innovation Practices

The main purpose of this study is to investigate the mediating role of innovation practices (IP) amidst relations of knowledge management practices (KMP) and sustainable balanced performance (SBP). Furthermore, this research illustrates a comprehensive empirical study in the Iranian knowledge-based industrial companies that are the manufacturers of advanced machineries and equipment. First- and second-order exploratory factor analysis (EFA) was done to confirm constructs validity. Then, relations among variables were studied by applying the partial least squares (PLS) technique to collected data from 104 industrial knowledge-based companies. The results obtained from the analysis supported all the research hypotheses. KPM significantly and strongly affects IP and SBP. Also, IP mediates the relations between KPM and SBP in industrial knowledge-based firms.

KNOWLEDGE SHARING AND JOB PERFORMANCE FROM PSYCHO-SOCIAL PERSPECTIVES: A CONCEPTUAL STUDY ON AL AIN MUNICIPALITY IN UAE

Purpose of the study: The purpose of this paper is to assess the knowledge sharing and job performance from psycho-social perspectives on Al Ain Municipality in UAE. Methodology: Since this is a conceptual study, so this paper only focuses on the literature survey and logical explanation based on the facts discussed. Results: The results of this study show that loss of knowledge can result in duplication of work, unreasonable searches for expertise and knowledge, and employees not learning from the experienced. Not all knowledge in the organisations is of critical value, and therefore need not be captured and retained, but the critical knowledge that is at risk of loss should be captured. Implications: The awareness of knowledge loss through staff attrition may motivate companies to institutionalise specific processes to capture the tacit knowledge of their employees as much as possible.  It is advisable for firms to have strategies in place on how to capture and retain their workforce’s knowledge. Novelty: This research contributes significantly on the knowledge management from psycho-social perspectives and from the vantage point of United Arab Emirates. Upon the analysis of the data collected, the research may provide recommendations for the policy makers, academicians, practitioners as well as decision-makers and other stakeholders.