Knowledge creation and social interaction : a study into the role of knowledge sharing behaviour in a New Zealand organisation

Abstract

This study investigated the effect of social interaction on the knowledge creation process in a New Zealand organisation and explored ways in which these behaviours could be controlled to shape the emergence of the knowledge product. The study investigated five areas: the relationship between technology and knowledge sharing behaviour; the relationship between perceived levels of trust and knowledge sharing behaviour; the barriers and impediments to knowledge creation; the extent to which social networks and interactions influence the process of knowledge creation; and the extent to which knowledge creation could be controllable by setting up mechanisms to foster and encourage knowledge sharing behaviour. Data were collected through interviews with a department of fourteen staff within a New Zealand organisation. The results cannot be assumed to represent the characteristics and behaviour of all departments within New Zealand organisations. However, they do provide an interesting portrait of the potential influences of social factors on knowledge sharing behaviour. The results indicated that the quality and amount of knowledge sharing was influenced by several factors including informal social networks, technology, group proximity, and trust. This research may assist organisations seeking to optimise internal knowledge by creating a culture which encourages positive knowledge sharing behaviour.