Systematic Review for Knowledge Transfer at International Sport Mega-Events

Abstract

Sport mega-events are characterized by a high degree of organizational complexity and are where games organizers take opportunities to strengthen their competencies and forge network connections via knowledge transfer. However, there is scarce evidence that the knowledge generated is transmitted between former and future host cities. This investigation aimed at examining the state of research on knowledge transfer at international sport mega-events. It followed the PRISMA protocol to identify critical research gaps and shed light on the barriers and enablers within this subject. Applying the quality and eligibility criteria yielded a final corpus of 11 academic and 6 non-academic works. The results demonstrate that a small group of scholars conducted empirical studies applying mixed research in this area. The three significant barriers were identified as the following: the Accessibility and Availability of Knowledge; the Lack of Absorptive Capacity; and the Dilemma of Knowledge Sharing and Knowledge Protection. Three crucial enablers were diagnosed as per the following: Knowledge Identifying and Tailoring Based on Needs, the Local Context, and Culture; Improving the Learning Culture and Capacities; and Communication, Cooperation, and Strategic Approach. The controversies among different studies also revealed the possible bias and insufficient knowledge transfer related to language, database, technology, geographic location, and priority setting, etc. We suggest further research focusing on specific cases between previous and future hosts.