Understanding the nature of knowledge: an empirical study of knowledge sharing in a knowledge intensive organisation

Abstract

This paper contributes to knowledge sharing theory and provides a practical approach for managing organisational knowledge. This research study investigates the impact of knowledge on knowledge sharing and defines a framework to manage individuals and organisational knowledge to improve performance. Qualitative methods such as individual semi-structured interviews, on-site observations, and document analysis are used to collect data from a US knowledge intensive organisation. Data analysis is organised through Atlas.ti®, a qualitative analysis software package. Selection, deviation, re-alignment, and conformity emerged as critical aspects of knowledge sharing. This study pointed out the nature of knowledge, highlighted impediments to the knowledge sharing process, and suggested strategies to improve the overall organisational effectiveness. Implications for theory and practise, limitations connected to empirical generalisability, and suggestions for future research are also discussed.