Thematic Analysis of Knowledge Management Practices and Performance of Multinational Manufacturing Firms in Nigeria

Abstract

Knowledge generation includes all activities which bring to light knowledge which is new, whether to the individual, to the group, or to the world. Multinational manufacturing corporations in South-western, Nigeria have not created responsiveness, acquisition, innovation, protection, integration, and dissemination of information needed to add value to their public image and job creation. This study adopted qualitative research design; eight respondents were interviewed to complement the findings of the questionnaire. Thematic analysis was used to analyze the interview data with the aid of Nvivo, the interview process involved recorded data which were then transcribed based on the responses of each of the participants. Majority of the respondents agree that top management of their company invests much human and financial resource for knowledge management. Top management of multinational manufacturing firms emphasizes the importance of knowledge management to organizational members. Top management of their company participates in and leads knowledge management activities (e.g., knowledge sharing and utilization). The study concluded that Knowledge generation and sharing improves public image and increases job creation through techniques, in form of acquisition of smaller companies. The multinational manufacturing firms’ experiences public image through international standard, corporate social responsibility, and reputation. Multinational manufacturing firms’ policy are designed to boost public image and prestige thereby ensuring sustained product value growth and development. The study recommends that Multinational manufacturing firms need to have an accurate, accessible and knowledge generation and storage to improve public image and increase job creation. Multinational Manufacturing corporations in Nigeria should encourage the creation of knowledge by supporting research activities and encouraging collaborations and teamwork.