Identifying barriers and facilitators of organizational knowledge sharing

Abstract

Purpose: The present investigation was conducted to elucidate the obstacles and enablers of disseminating organizational knowledge. It aims to sustain a competitive edge amid organizations' prevalent uncertainties while safeguarding organizational memory and intellectual capital. Methodology: In the current investigation, we employed the Meta-synthesis methodology delineated by Sandelowski and Barroso to elucidate the underlying patterns of factors that inhibit and facilitate knowledge-sharing outcomes. Findings: The findings derived from the analysis unequivocally suggested that the various obstacles and facilitators influencing the process of knowledge dissemination are multifaceted, encompassing a wide array of determinants that can be categorized into several domains, including individual factors, which accounted for a total of 54 distinct codes; technical aspects, which were represented by 12 separate codes; organizational influences, which comprised a substantial 87 codes; cultural considerations, which included ten specific codes; and finally, geographical factors, which were denoted by seven unique codes, thus illustrating the complexity and diversity of influences that shape knowledge transfer within various contexts. Originality/Value: Organizations can benefit from understanding the barriers and facilitators of knowledge sharing. We encourage managers and organizational leaders to comprehend the processes underpinning knowledge dissemination and the retention of organizational memory. This study suggests many recommendations for developing organizational knowledge sharing, which can be helpful for organizations.