Unpacking stickness : from the perspective of knowledge transfer approach

Abstract

Knowledge and the transfer of it are important to organizations in today’s knowledge-based economy. However, there is a gap in the literature in understanding knowledge transfer. This gap lies on a neglected topic of knowledge transfer approach. This thesis attempts to contribute to the literature by explicitly proposing four knowledge transfer approaches (constituted of two dimensions of transfer strategy and transfer mechanism) available to transfer knowledge. We build up our arguments by examining these three questions: 1. What are the knowledge transfer approaches available to transfer knowledge? 2. What are the factors affecting the choice of the knowledge transfer approach? 3. What are the effects of the choice of the knowledge transfer approach on transfer stickiness? We reach conclusions about the above questions by constructing four case studies which investigate the knowledge transfer phenomena within four organizations. Based on the case studies observations, we theoretically propose that different approaches are required to transfer different types of knowledge (mainly complex and tacit knowledge). Further, a fit between the knowledge transfer approach with the nature of knowledge is able to reduce knowledge transfer stickiness. In addition, we also derive from the cases that the degree of power relations present within organizations would influence knowledge management practices due to rent-seeking behavior of different individuals. The theoretical propositions offer a knowledge transfer approach perspective to unpack the problem of knowledge transfer stickiness and imply future research work on individual, organizational, or cultural factors influencing the choice of knowledge transfer approach, the impact of knowledge transfer approach on knowledge creation and appropriation, and the role of power on knowledge management practices.