Knowledge sharing, hiding and hoarding: how are they related?

Abstract

ABSTRACT This article consolidates the notions of Knowledge Hiding (KHi) and Knowledge Hoarding (KHo) and their relationship with Knowledge Collection (KC) and Knowledge Donation (KD). Following a systematic literature review involving content analysis, seventeen characteristics were identified. KHi is related to KC because, when someone hides and does not share the knowledge that somebody else requested, its collection will be impeded. KHo is related to KD, because when people hoard some unrequested knowledge, they avoid sharing what somebody else could take advantage of, even though they may be unaware of that fact. Thus, a new framework that articulates the inherent characteristics of KHi, KHo, KC and KD is proposed. From this new perspective, there is an expectation that future research could deepen the understanding of the incentives and obstacles to knowledge flow, and how their interaction will benefit or harm the performance of individuals and organisations.