Developing a measurement instrument of knowledge management implementation in the Iranian oil industry

Abstract

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to develop a measurement instrument toward knowledge management (KM) implementation in the Iranian oil industry.Design/methodology/approachBased on an in-depth study of the relevant literature, the critical success factors (CSFs) related to the sub-factors were identified. Then, exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis was used to validate the instrument. Finally, based on the developed instrument, the KM implementation was evaluated in the subsidiaries of the Iranian oil industry.FindingsThe obtained results reveal the 13 factors as follows: human resource management; KM processes; information technology; business strategy; intellectual capital; KM system; executive practices of KM; management information system; culture; partnership and cooperation with business partners; KM road map; leadership commitment and support; and organizational environment.Research limitations/implicationsAs this study was conducted in the Iranian oil industry, cautious should be taken regarding the generalizability of the results.Practical implicationsThe proposed instrument can help policymakers and top managers of the subsidiaries of Iranian oil industry in successful implementation and measurement of their KM practices.Originality/valueIdentification and measurement of the CSFs of KM implementation through developing a comprehensive instrument in the context of the Iranian oil industry.