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Understanding Knowledge Sharing in an Organization: A Perspective of Actor-Network Theory

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  • Michael Twum-Darko

    (Cape Peninsula University of Technology, Cape Town, South Africa)

  • Lee-Anne Lesley Harker

    (Cape Peninsula University of Technology, Cape Town, South Africa)

Abstract

This paper set out to propose the actor-network theory (ANT) as a lens through which to understand and interpret the sociotechnical knowledge sharing challenges in organisations. The methodology for this study was developed within the context of ANT by adopting its ideals and principles. The findings demonstrate that using the concept of the Moments of Translation as a lens to study this phenomenon is indeed a novel way of investigating the reason why there is still difficulty with sharing and managing knowledge. This perspective is proposed to transform the way that knowledge sharing factors are perceived. By utilising a normative approach, this research looked at how knowledge sharing as an ideal can be achieved when taking into account the existing constraints within an organisation. A general framework is proposed to guide the formation of a network of aligned interest for knowledge sharing.

Suggested Citation

  • Michael Twum-Darko & Lee-Anne Lesley Harker, 2017. "Understanding Knowledge Sharing in an Organization: A Perspective of Actor-Network Theory," International Journal of Knowledge Management (IJKM), IGI Global, vol. 13(1), pages 53-74, January.
    • Handle: RePEc:igg:jkm000:v:13:y:2017:i:1:p:53-74
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Gee W. Bock & Young-Gul Kim, 2002. "Breaking the Myths of Rewards: An Exploratory Study of Attitudes about Knowledge Sharing," Information Resources Management Journal (IRMJ), IGI Global, vol. 15(2), pages 14-21, April.
    2. Hsiu-Fen Lin, 2007. "Knowledge sharing and firm innovation capability: an empirical study," International Journal of Manpower, Emerald Group Publishing, vol. 28(1), pages 315 - 332, April.
    3. Sharon Watson & Kelly Hewett, 2006. "A Multi‐Theoretical Model of Knowledge Transfer in Organizations: Determinants of Knowledge Contribution and Knowledge Reuse," Journal of Management Studies, Wiley Blackwell, vol. 43(2), pages 141-173, March.
    4. Hsiu‐Fen Lin, 2007. "Knowledge sharing and firm innovation capability: an empirical study," International Journal of Manpower, Emerald Group Publishing Limited, vol. 28(3/4), pages 315-332, June.
    5. Lin Lu & Kwok Leung & Pamela Tremain Koch, 2006. "Managerial Knowledge Sharing: The Role of Individual, Interpersonal, and Organizational Factors," Management and Organization Review, International Association of Chinese Management Research, vol. 2(1), pages 15-41, March.
    6. Omar E. M. Khalil & Timothy Shea, 2012. "Knowledge Sharing Barriers and Effectiveness at a Higher Education Institution," International Journal of Knowledge Management (IJKM), IGI Global, vol. 8(2), pages 43-64, April.
    7. Oecd, 2015. "Teaching with technology," Teaching in Focus 12, OECD Publishing.
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    Cited by:

    1. Pervin Ersoy & Gülmüş Börühan & Sachin Kumar Mangla & Jorge Hernandez Hormazabal & Yigit Kazancoglu & Çisem Lafcı, 2022. "Impact of information technology and knowledge sharing on circular food supply chains for green business growth," Business Strategy and the Environment, Wiley Blackwell, vol. 31(5), pages 1875-1904, July.
    2. Aurélie Dudézert & Nathalie Mitev & Ewan Oiry, 2021. "Cultural metaphors and KMS appropriation: drawing on Astérix to understand non-use in a large French company," Post-Print hal-03227049, HAL.

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